Installation Instructions for 2022-Current Acura MDX

Part Numbers:

• 76453
• 84453
• CQT76453

Tools Required:

• Ratchet
• Torque Wrench
• Safety Glasses
• Socket: 22 mm
• Flat Head Screwdriver
• M14x1.50 Tap
• Hack Saw
• Socket Extension

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Lower Spare Tire:

   • Open the trunk and use tools from the storage compartment to lower the spare tire.

2. Trim Fascia:

   • Using a hack saw, trim the bottom center of the fascia as shown in Figure 2.
   • Measurements:
     • Width: 4.00 inches
     • Height: 3.50 inches

3. Clean Weldnuts:

   • Using an M14x1.50 tap, remove paint and debris from the weldnuts on both sides of the vehicle frame.

4. Install Hitch:

   • Raise the hitch into position and align the holes with the existing weldnuts.
   • Loosely install the M14 bolts and conical washers (teeth side toward hitch) using a 22 mm socket.

5. Tighten Fasteners:

   • Tighten all M14 CL10.9 fasteners to 148 ft-lbs (201 Nm) using a torque wrench.

6. Reinstall Spare Tire:

   • Raise the spare tire back into position, ensuring it does not interfere with the hitch.

Hardware List:

• (6) Bolt M14x1.50x45 CL10.9
• (6) Conical Washer 5/8"

Safety Notes:

• Always wear safety glasses during installation.
• Ensure proper torque to keep the hitch securely mounted to the vehicle.
• Regularly check that all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
• Do not cut or modify the hitch.
• Observe safety precautions when working beneath the vehicle.

Specifications:

• Weight Carrying Capacity: 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) trailer weight, 900 lbs (408 kg) tongue weight.
• Weight Distributing Capacity: 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg) trailer weight, 900 lbs (408 kg).
• Product complies with V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 and SAE J684.

Additional Notes:

• Installation time for professional installers is approximately 40 minutes.
• This hitch does not fit vehicles equipped with a full-size spare tire.
• For detailed photo instructions, scan the QR code provided in the manual or visit the website.

Installation Instructions for T-One® Connector for Acura MDX

Part Numbers:

• 118839

Tools Required:

• Trim Panel Remover
• 10mm Socket & Ratchet or 10mm Wrench
• Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
• Wire Crimpers
• Wire Cutters
• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• Test Probe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Access Rear Wiring:

   • Open the hatch and locate the trim panels covering the taillight mounting screws on both driver’s and passenger’s sides.
   • Remove the mounting screws and carefully set the taillights aside without breaking the mounting tabs.

2. Disconnect Taillight Wiring Harness:

   • Disconnect the vehicle wiring harness from both taillight sockets.
   • Ensure all connector surfaces are clean and free of dirt.

3. Route the Driver-Side Harness:

   • Route the harness containing the yellow wire underneath the vehicle and up through the opening between the bumper and body to the driver’s side taillight pocket.

4. Install Driver-Side T-One® Connector:

   • Insert the T-One® Connector with the yellow wire between the vehicle’s mating connectors on the driver’s side.

   Caution: Ensure the epoxy side of the module is pointed downward to prevent water buildup.

5. Mount the Black Box:

   • Underneath the vehicle, find a suitable mounting point behind the rear bumper fascia on the driver’s side.
   • Use the provided double-sided tape to mount the T-One® Connector black box.

   Caution: Verify what is behind any surface before drilling to avoid damage or injury. Do not drill into exposed surfaces.

6. Ground the White Wire:

   • Locate a grounding point near the black box, such as an existing ground stud, or drill a 3/32” hole.
   • Clean the area of dirt and rustproofing, and secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.
   • Avoid drilling into the vehicle floor or bed.

7. Route the Passenger-Side Harness:

   • Route the harness containing the green wire underneath the vehicle and up through the opening between the bumper and body to the passenger’s side taillight pocket.

8. Install Passenger-Side T-One® Connector:

   • Insert the T-One® Connector with the green wire between the vehicle’s mating connectors.
   • Ensure all connections are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.

9. Connect the Power Wire:

   • Disconnect the vehicle’s Negative (-) battery cable.
   • Remove the fuse from the yellow fuse holder (provided).
   • Attach the ring terminal to the Positive (+) battery cable.
   • Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black 12-gauge wire using the yellow butt connector (provided).

   Warning: Be cautious to avoid any hot pipes, heat shields, or fuel tanks when routing the wire.

10. Route the Black Power Wire:

    • Starting from the front of the vehicle, route the black 12-gauge wire rearward along the frame rail.
    • Avoid hot pipes, heat shields, and areas that may pinch or damage the wire.

11. Connect the Black Power Wire to the Black Box:

    • Attach the black 12-gauge wire to the black power wire on the T-One® Connector’s black box using the yellow butt connector.

12. Reconnect Battery and Test:

    • Reconnect the vehicle’s Negative (-) battery cable.
    • Install the 15-amp fuse into the fuse holder.
    • Test the installation with a test light or trailer.
    • Reset the vehicle’s electrical system by temporarily removing the key from the ignition.

13. Reassemble Components:

    • Reinstall trim panels, thresholds, storage covers, and other removed components, ensuring wires are not pinched or damaged.
    • Store the 4-Flat harness in an accessible location with a bracket or electrical box.

Safety Notes:

• Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed stated product ratings.
• Always wear safety glasses and follow all precautions during installation.
• Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual and instruction sheet for additional details.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Do not exceed the lower of the tow vehicle’s manufacturer ratings or the specific amperage ratings stated on the product.
• Store these instructions for future reference.