Installation Instructions for Trailer Hitch #76271

Part Numbers:

• 76271
• 84271
• CQT76271

Applications:

• Make and Models: Subaru Forester, Subaru WRX
• Years: For the most accurate application information, consult the product manual or the manufacturer's website.

Wiring Access Location:

• Not Applicable

Tools Required:

• Ratchet
• Torque Wrench
• Safety Glasses
• Sockets: 10 mm, 13/16"
• 6" Socket Extension
• Pry Bar
• Exhaust Removal Pliers
• Tin Snips
• Flat Head Screwdriver
• Marker
• Drill with 17/32" Drill Bit

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Lower the Underbody Panel (If Applicable):

• Remove (2) M6 bolts from the driver’s side frame rail.
• Retain the underbody panel for reinstallation after the hitch is installed.

2. Lower the Exhaust:

• Use exhaust removal pliers or a pry bar to detach the rubber exhaust hangers in front of and behind the muffler, as well as near the rear axle.
• Support the exhaust to prevent damage during installation.

3. Trim the Heat Shield:

• Remove (4) screws securing the heat shield to the vehicle using a 10 mm socket.
• Trim the heat shield using tin snips as specified in the installation diagram.
• Reinstall the heat shield, omitting the rearmost M6 bolt on the frame rail.

4. Remove Hole Plugs:

• Remove all hole plugs from the frame rails to prepare for fastener installation.

5. Drill Holes (WRX Model Only):

• Use a 17/32" drill bit to create additional attachment holes as marked in the installation instructions.

6. Install the Hitch:

• Use the fish wire method to guide (6) fasteners through the frame as shown in the installation diagram.
• Temporarily raise the hitch into position and loosely install the supplied nuts and conical washers (teeth side toward the hitch) onto the bolts.
• Align the hitch and install the supplied M6 bolts into the weld nuts on the frame rail, if applicable.

7. Tighten Fasteners:

• Torque all 7/16" fasteners to 50 lb-ft (68 N·m).

8. Reinstall Exhaust:

• Raise the exhaust back into position and reinstall all previously removed hangers.

Hardware List:

• 6 × Carriage Bolts (7/16"-14 × 1.50", GR5)
• 6 × Conical Washers (7/16")
• 6 × Spacer Blocks (0.109" × 0.880" × 2.00")
• 6 × Hex Nuts (7/16"-14)
• 4 × Flange Hex Bolts (M6 × 1.0 × 35 mm)
• 6 × Pull Wires (7/16")

Safety Notes:

• Always wear safety glasses during installation.
• Inspect the hitch regularly to ensure all fasteners and the hitch ball are securely tightened.
• If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or body panels to prevent water or exhaust fumes from entering.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball before towing.
• Do not cut access or attachment holes using a torch.

Specifications:

• Max Gross Trailer Weight (Weight Carrying): 3,500 lbs (1,589 kg)
• Max Tongue Weight (Weight Carrying): 525 lbs (238 kg)
• Weight Distribution Capacity: 3,500 lbs (1,589 kg) GTW, 525 lbs (238 kg) TW
• Installation Time: Approximately 45 minutes

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

Technical Support:

For technical assistance, visit www.trailerjacks.com or call 877-869-6690.

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

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Subaru (Forester, Outback, XV Crosstrek)

Part Numbers:

• 118467

Tools Required:

• Trim Panel Remover
• Test Probe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rear Cargo Area:

   • Open the vehicle’s rear tailgate.
   • Remove the cargo nets and cargo floor hatch to access the spare tire area.

2. Locate the Tow Plug Housing:

   • 2009-2013 Subaru Forester: Remove the driver’s side and center foam cargo trays to locate the tow plug housing under the driver’s side foam tray.
   • 2010-2019 Subaru Outback: Locate the tow plug housing behind the driver’s side trim panel. It is taped to the wire harness with blue tape.
   • 2014-Current Subaru Forester / XV Crosstrek: Locate the tow plug housing behind the driver’s side trim panel. It is taped to the wire harness with tape.
   • 2020-Current Subaru Outback: Temporarily remove the rear threshold plate. Locate the tow plug on the passenger side under the rear threshold plate. It is taped to the harness with tape.

3. Connect the T-Connector Harness:

   • Insert the T-Connector harness into the vehicle’s tow plug housing and lock it into place.
   • Ensure the connectors are fully inserted with the locking tabs engaged.

   Warning:

   • All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly.
   • Test and verify the installation with a test light or trailer. For the initial test, reset the vehicle's electrical system by temporarily removing the key from the ignition.

4. Mount the Black Box:

   • On the driver’s side, mount the T-Connector black box using the provided double-sided tape.
   • Secure the remaining T-Connector harness with the provided cable ties, avoiding areas that could cut or pinch the wire.

   Note:

   • Store the 4-flat connector in the spare tire compartment when not in use.

   Warning:

   • Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed the lower of the towing manufacturer’s rating or the following specifications:
     • Max. stop/turn light: 1 per side (2.1 amps)
     • Max. tail lights: (5.6 amps)

Safety Notes:

• Always follow all warnings and instructions included with the product before beginning installation.
• Wear safety glasses and use all safety precautions during installation.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual and instruction sheet for additional details.

Installation Instructions for 4-Way to 7-Way Adapter and Brake Control Wiring

Tools Required:

• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• Drill with 3/32" Drill Bit
• 10mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
• Wire Crimpers
• Wire Cutters
• Test Light or Multimeter
• Cable Ties

Part 1: Install the 4-Way to 7-Way Adapter

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mount the Adapter:

   • Choose a suitable mounting point on the vehicle, typically near the hitch.
   • Use the provided bracket and screws to secure the adapter.

2. Connect the 4-Flat Plug:

   • Plug the 4-flat connector on the adapter into the existing 4-flat plug on the vehicle.
   • This connection enables tail lights, left turn, and right turn signals.

3. Ground the Adapter:

   • Locate a clean, solid grounding point near the adapter.
   • Drill a 3/32" hole if necessary and secure the white ground wire from the adapter using the provided screw and eyelet.

4. Leave Additional Wires Disconnected:

   • The following wires will remain disconnected until Part 2:
     • Black Wire: Power from the battery.
     • Blue Wire: Brake control output.
     • Yellow Wire: Reverse light (optional; leave disconnected unless needed).

5. Test Initial Connection:

   • Use a test light or trailer to verify functionality of the 4-way connections (tail lights, turn signals).

Part 2: Install Brake Control Wiring

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mount Circuit Breakers:

   • Install two 30A circuit breakers on the firewall or another suitable location near the battery.
   • Use self-tapping screws to mount them securely.

2. Route Power Wires:

   • Connect the black 12-gauge wire from the 7-way adapter to the auxiliary side of one circuit breaker (this powers the 7-way socket).
   • Run a heavy-gauge wire from the battery's positive terminal to the battery side of this circuit breaker, using a ring terminal.
   • Run another heavy-gauge wire from the battery's positive terminal to the auxiliary side of the second circuit breaker (for the brake controller).

3. Install the Brake Controller:

   • Mount the brake controller under the dash on a firm surface.
   • Use the following connections:
     • Red Wire: Connect to the cold side of the brake switch (active only when the brake pedal is pressed).
     • Blue Wire: Connect to the blue wire on the 7-way adapter for trailer brakes.
     • White Wire: Connect to a solid ground point on the vehicle body.
     • Black Wire: Connect to the auxiliary side of the second 30A circuit breaker (provides power to the brake controller).

4. Optional: Connect Reverse Light Circuit:

   • If the trailer has a reverse light circuit, connect the yellow wire from the 7-way adapter to the vehicle’s reverse light circuit.

5. Reconnect the Battery:

   • Reattach the negative battery cable and ensure all connections are secure.
   • Insert the fuses into both circuit breakers.

6. Secure All Wires:

   • Use cable ties to secure all loose wires and prevent damage or rattling.

7. Test the System:

   • Verify functionality of all circuits (running lights, turn signals, brake lights, and brake controller output).
   • If applicable, test the reverse light circuit.

Notes:

• Most installations will only require connecting the black and blue wires from the 7-way adapter.
• Leave the yellow wire disconnected unless the trailer has a reverse light or surge brake lockout circuit.
• Always adhere to safety guidelines and verify all connections before use.

Warning: Incorrect wiring can cause damage to the vehicle or trailer. Test all connections carefully before use.