Installation Instructions for Ford Escape

Part Numbers:

• 36524
• 90219
• 06147

Wiring Access Location:

• SUV1, SUV2

Tools Required:

• Wrench: 11/16"
• Drill with 3/8" Drill Bit (for enlarging access holes if necessary)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Frame Rails:

   • Feed spacers and carriage bolts into position in both frame rails using the provided pull wires. Leave pull wires attached.
   • Note: Do not engage the bolt and spacer when inserting into the frame. Insert them separately as shown in Figure 3.

2. Push Fasteners Into Frame Rails:

   • Push the fasteners back into the frame rails, ensuring the pull wires remain accessible and sticking out of the frame rails.

3. Raise Hitch Into Position:

   • Position the hitch between the frame rails.
   • Feed the pull wires through the adjacent holes in the hitch.
   • On the passenger side, ensure the forward end of the hitch bracket is positioned over the hoses crossing the frame rail.

4. Secure Fasteners:

   • Pull the fasteners back through the access holes in the hitch and frame rails.
   • Remove the pull wires carefully, ensuring the fasteners do not fall back into the frame.
   • Attach conical washers (teeth facing the hitch) and hex nuts to the fasteners.

5. Tighten Fasteners:

   • Use a torque wrench to tighten all 7/16"-14 GR5 fasteners to 50 ft-lb (68 N*m).

Torque Specifications:

• Tighten all 7/16"-14 GR5 fasteners to 50 ft-lb (68 N*m).

Hardware List:

• (4) Carriage Bolt, 7/16"-14 x 1.50" GR5
• (4) Spacer, 1/4" x 7/8" x 3.00"
• (4) Conical Washer, 7/16"
• (4) Hex Nut, 7/16"-14
• (4) Pull Wire, 7/16"

Notes on Hands-Free Liftgate Sensors:

• If the vehicle is equipped with the "Hands-Free Liftgate" option, the sensor function will be limited to a specific area near the hitch (see Figure 2).

Safety Notes:

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

Specifications:

• Max Gross Trailer Weight: 3,500 lb (1,589 kg)
• Max Tongue Weight: 300 lb (136 kg)
• Drawbar must be used in the RISE position only.

Additional Notes:

• Drawbar Kit: 36071 (sold separately)
• Fastener Kit: 36524F
• This product complies with V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 and SAE J684 safety standards.

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Ford Escape

Part Numbers:

• 118566

Tools Required:

• Trim Panel Remover
• 8mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
• Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
• 1/4” Socket
• Wire Crimpers
• Wire Cutters
• Test Probe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove the Taillight Assemblies:

   • Open the tailgate and remove the vehicle’s taillight assemblies by unscrewing the four 8mm hex head bolts on each side.
   • Carefully pry the housings away from the vehicle, avoiding damage to the alignment tabs.

2. Disconnect the Wiring Harness:

   • Disconnect the vehicle wiring harness from both taillight sockets.

3. Install the Driver-Side T-Connector:

   • On the driver’s side, route the T-Connector end with the yellow wires up between the bumper and vehicle body into the taillight pocket.
   • Plug the T-Connector with the yellow wire in between the driver’s side taillight socket and the vehicle wiring harness.

4. Route and Connect the Passenger-Side T-Connector:

   • Route the T-Connector with the green wire to the passenger side.
   • Route the 4-flat connector underneath the bumper to the passenger side, ensuring it avoids hot pipes, heat shields, or fuel tanks.
   • Route the T-Connector end with the green wire up through the passenger-side opening and connect it.

5. Ground the White Wire:

   • Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector.
   • Clean the area of dirt and rustproofing.
   • Drill a 3/32” hole and secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.

   Caution:

   • Verify what is behind any surface before drilling to avoid damage or injury.

6. Prepare the Power Connection:

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

7. Route the Black Power Wire:

   • Starting at the front of the vehicle, route the black wire along the frame rail to the rear driver’s side.
   • Ensure the wire avoids hot pipes, heat shields, or other damage points.

8. Connect the Black Power Wire:

   • Route the black 12-gauge wire to the rear driver’s side.
   • Connect the wire to the black wire from the T-Connector black box using the supplied yellow butt connector.

9. Reconnect the Battery:

   • Reconnect the negative (-) battery cable.
   • Insert the 15-amp fuse into the fuse holder.

10. Mount the Black Box:

    • Locate a flat surface on the driver’s side and mount the T-Connector’s black box using the double-sided tape.
    • Ensure the epoxy side of the module is pointed toward the ground to prevent water buildup.

11. Secure the Wiring:

    • Secure the remainder of the T-Connector harness under the bumper using the provided cable ties, avoiding areas that could pinch or cut the wires.

12. Reinstall the Taillight Assemblies:

    • Reinstall the taillight housing assemblies, positioning the wiring harness between the housing and the vehicle body.

13. Mount the 4-Flat Connector:

    • Mount the 4-flat connector in a suitable location under the vehicle.

    Note:

    • A bracket is not included for mounting the 4-flat connector.

Specifications:

• Max. stop/turn light: 2.1 amps
• Max. tail lights: 5.6 amps

Safety Notes:

• Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed stated product ratings.
• Always wear safety glasses and follow safety precautions during installation.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Read the vehicle owner’s manual for additional details.
• Store instructions for future reference.