Installation Instructions for Trailer Hitch

Part Numbers:

• 76141
• 84141
• CQT76141

Applications:

• Years: 2012-2015 (Mercedes ML350), 2016-Current (Mercedes GLE350)

Attention: This is a summary of the installation procedure. For complete installation instructions, including diagrams and detailed information from the manufacturer, please download the full installation PDF.

Tools Required:

• Ratchet
• Torque Wrench
• Safety Glasses
• Sockets: 10 mm, 13 mm, 16 mm, 3/4", 5 mm, 8 mm
• E10 External Torx Bit
• 6" Socket Extension
• Flat Head Screwdriver
• Exhaust Removal Pliers
• Tin Snips
• Utility Knife

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove DEF Tank Shield (BlueTec Vehicles Only):

• Remove (6) plastic flange nuts using a 10 mm socket.
• Support the DEF tank to prevent damage.

2. Remove Bumper Fascia Brackets:

• Remove (3) fascia brackets by removing (4) screws from the lower fascia tabs and (5) nuts using a 10 mm socket.
• For 2014 and newer models, remove (3) bolts using a 10 mm socket to remove the center fascia support bracket.
• Return brackets and hardware to the vehicle owner.

3. Lower Exhaust:

• Remove the driver-side exhaust by removing the rubber isolator from the hanger using exhaust removal pliers (spray with soapy water to make this easier) and unbolting the exhaust hanger near the middle of the vehicle using a 13 mm socket.
• Repeat for the passenger side if present.
• Support the exhaust system to prevent damage.

4. Remove Heat Shield:

• Remove the driver-side heat shield by removing (3) formed nuts and (1) bolt using an 8 mm socket.
• Repeat on the passenger side if present.
• For 2014 and newer models with a one-piece heat shield, remove (6) fasteners using a 5 mm socket and (2) E10 Torx bolts.

5. Lower DEF Tank (BlueTec Vehicles Only):

• Remove the rearmost bolt holding the DEF tank and the rearmost nut securing the strap using a 13 mm socket.
• Support the DEF tank to prevent damage.

6. Remove Lower Bumper Bolts:

• Remove the lower (2) bolts securing the bumper to the vehicle using a 16 mm socket.
• Repeat for both sides.

7. Trim Heat Shield:

• Trim and reinstall heat shields according to Figure 2 in the instructions. Use the rib in the panel as a cutting guide. Confirm fit prior to trimming.

8. Install Hitch:

• Raise the hitch into position and secure it to the bumper beam studs using the nuts removed in Step 6.
• Center the holes of the hitch with the bumper weldnuts.
• For BlueTec vehicles, raise the DEF tank and secure the mounting strap using the hardware removed in Step 5.

9. Install Bolt Plate:

• Raise the bolt plate into position and install the supplied carriage bolts through the square holes in the hitch and into the slots of the bolt plate.
• Install conical toothed washers (teeth side against hitch) and 1/2" hex nuts.

10. Install Mounting Plate:

• Secure the hitch to the cross member using 1/2"-13 x 3.5" hex bolts, 1/2" conical toothed washers, and 1/2" hex nuts.

11. Tighten All Fasteners:

• Torque M8 fasteners to 25 lb-ft (34 N·m).
• Torque M10 fasteners to 38 lb-ft (52 N·m).
• Torque 1/2" fasteners to 75 lb-ft (102 N·m).

12. Reinstall Exhaust:

• Raise and secure the exhaust.

13. Trim and Reinstall DEF Tank Shield (BlueTec Vehicles Only):

• Trim 4" from the inboard edge of the shield as shown in Figure 3 and reinstall the DEF tank shield removed in Step 1.

14. Secure Fascia Tabs:

• Use the supplied cable ties to attach the fascia tabs to the hitch cross tube.

Hardware List:

• 2 × Hex Bolts (1/2"-13 × 3.5", GR5)
• 6 × Conical Washers (1/2")
• 4 × Hex Nuts (1/2"-13, GR5)
• 2 × Carriage Bolts (1/2"-13 × 1.75", GR5)
• 5 × Cable Ties

Safety Notes:

• Always wear safety glasses during installation.
• Proper torque is essential to secure the hitch to the vehicle.
• Check the hitch periodically to ensure all fasteners and the hitch ball are secure.
• Plug any holes in the trunk pan or body panels if the hitch is removed to prevent water and exhaust fumes from entering.
• Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.

Specifications:

• Max Gross Trailer Weight (Weight Carrying/Weight Distributing): 7,000 lbs (3,178 kg)
• Max Tongue Weight (Weight Carrying/Weight Distributing): 700 lbs (318 kg)
• Installation Time: Approximately 40 minutes

This product complies with V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 and SAE J684 safety specifications for towing systems.

For technical support and assistance, our team of experts is available to help. You can reach our tech support by visiting www.trailerjacks.com or calling 877-869-6690.

Warranty Information:

For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.