Product Details
- Brand: Reese
- Model: 44782 20252 21536
- Includes: Class 4 Trailer Tow Hitch, Wiring Connector, Trailer Tow Hitch Ball Mount Starter Kit
Compatibility Chart
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Reese Trailer Tow Hitch For 11-14 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 11-23 RAM 1500 Complete Package w/ Wiring and 2" Ball Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Ram 1500
Part Numbers:
- 75232
- 87694
- 44782
Applications:
- 2011-Current Ram 1500 (Visit the manufacturer's website for the most up-to-date application years and trim levels.)
Tools Required:
- Ratchet
- Torque Wrench
- Safety Glasses
- Sockets: 22mm, 3/4"
Installation Time:
- Approximately 40 minutes (for professional installers)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Lower Spare Tire:
- Lower the spare tire for easier installation.
-
Remove Existing Fasteners:
- Remove the M14 bolt connecting the bumper beam to the frame rail on both the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle.
- Retain the bolts for reinstallation later.
-
Fishwire Carriage Bolts and Spacers:
- Use the reverse fishwire technique to insert carriage bolts and spacers (items 1 and 4) through the large round holes in the driver and passenger frame rails.
-
Install Additional Fasteners:
- Fishwire additional carriage bolts and spacers (items 1 and 3) through the ends of the bumper beam and out of the slot on the forward side of the beam.
-
Raise Hitch into Position:
- Lift the hitch into place and loosely install the conical washers, spacers (items 2, 5, and 6), and hex nuts onto the previously installed carriage bolts.
- Ensure spacers are positioned between the frame and hitch.
-
Reinstall Fasteners:
- Reinstall the M14 fasteners removed in step 2.
-
Tighten Fasteners:
- Use a torque wrench to tighten all fasteners to the following specifications:
- 1/2" bolts: 75 lb-ft (102 N·m)
- M14 fasteners: 122 lb-ft (165 N·m)
- Use a torque wrench to tighten all fasteners to the following specifications:
-
Reposition Spare Tire:
- Raise the spare tire back into its original position.
Hardware List:
- (4) 1/2-13 x 1.75 GR5 Carriage Bolts
- (4) 1/2" Conical Washers
- (2) 0.25 x 1.50 x 3.00 Spacers
- (2) 0.25 x 1.00 x 3.00 Spacers
- (2) 0.188 x 1.50 x 2.00 Spacers
- (4) 1/2-13 Hex Nuts
- (4) 1/2" Fishwires
Safety Notes:
- Check the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly 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.
- Follow all 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: Max Trailer Weight 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg), Max Tongue Weight 1,000 lbs (454 kg).
- Weight Distributing: Max Trailer Weight 12,000 lbs (5,443 kg), Max Tongue Weight 1,200 lbs (544 kg).
- 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.
Installation Instructions for Trailer Light Wiring Kit
Part Number:
- 20252
Tools Required:
- Hot Air Gun or Appropriate Heat Source
- Wire Crimpers
- Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Circuit Tester
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Locate the Taillight Wiring Harness
- Access the vehicle's taillight wiring harness.
- Using the provided instructions, identify the appropriate wires for connection:
- Green Wire: Right Turn & Stop
- Yellow Wire: Left Turn & Stop
- Brown Wire: Taillights
- White Wire: Ground
Step 2: Make the Electrical Connections
-
Match the color-coded wires from the wiring kit to the corresponding vehicle wires.
- Use a circuit tester to verify each wire's function before connecting.
- CAUTION: Test one wire at a time to prevent damage to electronic components.
-
Connect the wires using the provided insulated butt connectors:
- Strip the ends of each wire and seat them properly in the connector.
- Use a crimping tool designed for insulated splices to secure the connections.
-
Heat the connectors:
- Apply heat directly to the center of each splice using a hot air gun.
- Work from the center outward until the tubing recovers and adhesive flows.
- Allow the connections to cool before inspecting for integrity.
Step 3: Ground the System
- Locate a grounding point near the wiring harness, such as the vehicle frame or cross member.
- Do not drill into the vehicle floor or bed.
- Clean the area to remove dirt, rust, or undercoating.
- Drill a 3/32" hole at the grounding point and secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.
Step 4: Verify the Installation
- Test all connections using a circuit tester or trailer:
- Verify the functionality of taillights, turn signals, and brake lights.
- Ensure all connections are complete and secure.
- If issues are identified, double-check the wiring and connections for errors.
Step 5: Store the 4-Flat Connector
- Store the 4-flat connector in the rear cargo area when not in use to protect it from damage and environmental exposure.
Warnings and Notes:
- WARNING: Overloading a circuit can cause fires. Do not exceed the following limits:
- Stop/Turn Lights: 7.5 amps (1 per side)
- Tail Lights: 7.5 amps
- WARNING: Always verify what is behind any surface before drilling to avoid vehicle damage or injury.
- NOTE: Trailer lighting that requires more than 7.5 amps per circuit must use a Trailer Light Power Converter.
- NOTE: If your trailer requires a plug other than the 4-flat, consult your dealer for optional 6-way or 7-way adapters.
Maintenance:
- Inspect the wiring harness periodically for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- Reapply heat to connectors if the adhesive seal weakens.
Specifications:
- Maximum Load:
- Stop/Turn Lights: 7.5 amps (1 per side)
- Tail Lights: 7.5 amps
- Recommended Grounding Hole Size: 3/32 inches