Installation Instructions for Honda Element (2003-2008, including SC model)

Part Numbers:

• 75659
• 87506
• 44612

Tools Required:

• Wrenches: 3/4", 7/8"
• Drill Bits: None

Wiring Access Location:

• 2003-2004: SUV2
• 2005 and later: SUV1-2

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Install 1/2" Bolts and Washers:

   • Insert 1/2"-13 x 5-1/2" Grade 5 hex bolts and 1/2" flat washers from the outside of the vehicle frame.
   • Place tube spacers and 3/4" flat washers inside the frame.
   • Ensure bolts barely stick through; repeat on both sides of the vehicle.

2. Raise the Hitch:

   • Carefully lift the hitch into position without dislodging washers installed in Step 1.
   • Alternatively, slide the 3/4" flat washers into place after raising the hitch. Washers should go over tube spacers between the vehicle frame and hitch brackets.

3. Secure Hitch Bolts:

   • Push 1/2" bolts through the hitch brackets on both sides.
   • Ensure 3/4" flat washers are correctly positioned over the tube spacers and between the inside of the frame and outside of the hitch bracket.
   • Install 1/2" conical toothed washers and hex nuts. Loosely tighten.

4. Install U-Bolt:

   • Place the 3/8" U-bolt over the vehicle trunk pan tie-down hook and through the center hitch bracket.
   • Install 3/8" flanged hex locknuts on the U-bolt, ensuring even tightening.

5. Torque Fasteners:

   • Tighten the U-bolt first to 30 lb-ft (41 N·m).
   • Torque all 1/2"-13 Grade 5 bolts to 75 lb-ft (102 N·m).

Hardware List:

• (4) 1/2"-13 x 5-1/2" Grade 5 Hex Bolts
• (4) Tube Spacers
• (4) 1/2" Flat Washers
• (4) 1/2" Conical Toothed Washers
• (4) 1/2" Hex Nuts
• (1) 3/8" U-Bolt
• (2) 3/8" Flanged Hex Locknuts
• (4) 3/4" Flat Washers

Safety Notes:

• Frequently check the hitch to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened.
• If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or body panels to prevent water and exhaust fumes from entering.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
• Follow safety precautions when working beneath the vehicle, and wear eye protection.
• Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.

Specifications:

• Hitch Type and Weight Ratings:
  • Weight Carrying (Ball Mount): Max Trailer Weight 3,500 lbs (1,589 kg), Max Tongue Weight 350 lbs (159 kg).
  • Weight Distributing: Not applicable.
• Complies with safety specifications and requirements for connecting devices and towing systems of the State of New York, V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5, and SAE J684.

Additional Notes:

• SC model requires trimming of the plastic bumper fascia.

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Honda Element

Part Numbers:

• 118465

Tools Required:

• None

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Locate the 10-Pin Tow Plug Adapter:

   • Remove the access panel underneath the steering wheel by turning the locking knobs 90 degrees counterclockwise.
   • Locate the gray 10-pin housing underneath the dash to the left of the steering column. It is taped to another harness with blue tape.

2. Prepare the Fuse Holders:

   • If not already done, remove the fuses from the supplied fuse holders on the wires going from the T-Connector’s 10-pin Tow Plug Adapter to the T-Connector’s black converter box.

3. Connect the Tow Plug Adapter:

   • Insert the 10-pin Tow Plug Adapter into the mating connector and lock it into place.
   • Be careful not to damage the locking tabs and ensure the connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs engaged.

4. Mount the Black Converter Box:

   • Use the provided double-sided tape or the 14” cable tie to mount the T-Connector’s black converter box securely under the dash. Ensure the wires are not pinched or cut.

5. Access the Rear Cargo Area:

   • Open the rear tailgate and remove the cargo nets and cargo floor hatch to access the spare tire area.

6. Locate the Vehicle’s Factory Tow Harness:

   • On the driver’s side, locate the vehicle’s factory 4-pin tow harness connector mounted on the threshold. Ensure the mating surfaces of the vehicle harness connectors match the Tow Plug Adapter end. Clean all connector surfaces.

7. Connect the 4-Pin Tow Plug Adapter:

   • Insert the 4-pin Tow Plug Adapter into the mating connector and lock it into place.
   • Ensure the connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs engaged.

8. Reassemble the Cargo Area:

   • Reposition the access panels, trays, and trunk floor panels. Reattach the threshold.
   • Replace the mini-fuses removed in Step 2.

9. Test the Installation:

   • Test and verify the T-Connector functionality with a test light or trailer.
   • Reset the vehicle’s electrical system by temporarily removing the key from the ignition.

   Specifications:

   • Max. stop/turn light: 1 per side (2.1 amps)
   • Max. tail lights: (5.6 amps)

Safety Notes:

• All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly.
• Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed the lower of the towing manufacturer’s rating or the unit specifications.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Store the 4-flat connector in the spare tire compartment when not in use.
• Follow all warnings and installation instructions carefully.
• Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for additional information.