Installation Instructions for Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, and Lincoln Aviator

Part Numbers:

• 44722
• 75132
• 87417

Tools Required:

• Wrenches: 7/8”, 15mm, 18mm
• Drill Bits: None

Specifications:

• Max Gross Trailer Weight:
  • Weight Distributing: 8,000 lb. (3,632 kg)
  • Weight Carrying: 5,000 lb. (2,272 kg)
• Max Tongue Weight:
  • Weight Distributing: 800 lb. (363 kg)
  • Weight Carrying: 500 lb. (227 kg)
• Note: Do not exceed the towing vehicle manufacturer’s rating.

Wiring Access Location:

• SUV1, SUV2

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove Existing Fasteners:

   • Remove three (3) existing bumper bracket nuts (if present).
   • Remove three (3) M12 or M14 bolts from each side of the frame.

2. Install Fasteners:

   • Fishwire carriage bolts and blocks through the end of the frame.

3. Position Hitch:

   • Raise the hitch into position and loosely install conical washers and nuts.

4. Factory Fastener Reinstallation:

   • Vehicles with 14mm factory fasteners: Reinstall the M14 fasteners.
   • Vehicles with 12mm factory fasteners: Install and torque supplied M12 fasteners and reinstall factory M12 nuts.

5. Tighten Fasteners:

   • Tighten all M12 fasteners to 92 Lb.-Ft. (125 N*M).
   • Tighten all M14 fasteners to 148 Lb.-Ft. (201 N*M).
   • Tighten all 1/2” fasteners to 75 Lb.-Ft. (102 N*M).

Hardware List:

• (6) Hex Bolts: M12 X 1.75 X 45mm CL10.9
• (2) Blocks: 1/4” x 1.5” x 2”
• (8) Conical Washers: 1/2”
• (2) Hex Nuts: 1/2” – 13
• (2) Carriage Bolts: 1/2” – 13 x 1.75 GR5

Safety Notes:

• Regularly inspect all fasteners and the hitch ball to ensure they are securely tightened.
• If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent water and exhaust fumes from entering.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
• Always observe safety precautions and wear eye protection when working under the vehicle.
• Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.

Compliance:

• This product complies with SAE J684, V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5, and safety requirements of the State of New York.

Additional Notes:

• Do not use both hitches at the same time, as this may overload and cause damage to the vehicle.
• Check the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners remain tight.

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter

Part Numbers:

• 118344

Wiring Access Location:

• Tail light assemblies on both sides of the vehicle.

Tools Required:

• None specified.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove both tail light assemblies and locate the vehicle’s wiring harness.
   • The harness will have connection points on each side matching the ends of the T-Connector adapter.

Step 2: Vehicle-Specific Instructions

2A. Vans/Expedition/Navigator:

• Partially remove the rear interior plastic trim panels on the left (driver’s) side.
• Open the vehicle's jack storage compartment to expose the openings to the tail light assemblies.
• Remove the threshold cover plate between the rear doors.

2B. Escort/Tracer:

• Partially remove the trunk lining to expose the grommets accessing the tail lights.
• Remove and slit the grommets to allow wires to pass into the tail light openings.

2C. F-150 Pickups (Flareside Only):

• From underneath the vehicle, locate the access holes into the tail light openings.
• There will be an access hole on each side of the vehicle.

3. From the passenger side, route the T-Connector end containing the green wire out from inside the vehicle through the tail light opening.

4. Disconnect the vehicle’s center black wiring harness connector from the tail light assembly.

   • Note: Be careful not to damage the locking tabs.
   • Plug the T-Connector end containing the green wire between these separated halves.

5. Route the yellow wire across the vehicle under the threshold cover removed in step 2.

   • Route the T-Connector ends containing the yellow wire out through the driver’s side tail light opening.
   • Repeat step 4 using the T-Connector end containing the yellow wire.

6. Test the installation with a test light or trailer.

7. Secure the yellow wire under the threshold panel and reinstall all removed components:

   • Plastic trim panels.

   • Jack storage panel grommets.

   • Tail lights.

   • Specifications:

     • This unit is rated for 7.5 amps per circuit.

Hardware List:

• T-Connector adapter.

Safety Notes:

• Handle all connectors with care to avoid damage.
• Ensure all connections are clean and securely fastened.
• Test the installation after completing all steps to verify functionality.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Follow all warnings and instructions provided with the product.
• Use a test light or trailer to confirm proper installation.