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-One® T-Connector for Ford Escape

Part Numbers:

• 118802

Tools Required:

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

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove the Taillight Assemblies:

   • Open the tailgate and remove the vehicle’s taillight assemblies by removing the two 8mm hex head bolts on each side.
   • Carefully pull the taillights away from the vehicle, ensuring not to damage the alignment pins.
   • Set the taillight housings aside.

2. Disconnect the Wiring Harness:

   • Disconnect the vehicle wiring harness from both taillight sockets.
   • Separate the connectors carefully, ensuring not to break the locking tabs.
   • Clean all connector surfaces to remove dirt.

3. Remove Floor Trim Panels:

   • Carefully remove the floor trim panels and access panels on both sides of the vehicle.
   • Locate the rubber grommet in the taillight pocket and remove it.

4. Route the T-Connector for Driver-Side:

   • Behind the driver’s side trim panel, route the T-Connector end with the yellow wire out of the opening exposed by removing the grommet.
   • Plug the yellow wire end between the driver’s side taillight socket and vehicle wiring harness.

5. Route the T-Connector for Passenger-Side:

   • Route the green wire through the interior trim panel, along the threshold plate, and up through the passenger side trim panel.
   • Insert the green wire end between the passenger-side taillight socket and vehicle wiring harness.

6. Ground the White Wire:

   • Locate a suitable grounding point on the driver’s side near the connectors.
   • Drill a 3/32” hole and secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.

   Caution: Verify what is behind the surface before drilling to avoid damage or injury.

7. Route the Power Wire:

   • Locate the black 12-gauge power wire from the T-Connector box.
   • Attach the provided black wire and route it along the vehicle’s frame or existing wiring to the engine compartment.

   Warning: Avoid routing near hot pipes, heat shields, or areas that may pinch or damage the wire.

8. Connect to the Vehicle Battery:

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

9. Reconnect the Battery and Test:

   • Reconnect the Negative (-) battery cable and insert the 15-amp fuse into the fuse holder.
   • Test the installation using a test light or trailer.

10. Reinstall Taillights and Panels:

    • Reinstall the taillight assemblies and other panels removed during installation.
    • Ensure no wires are pinched or damaged.

11. Secure the Wiring Harness:

    • Use the provided cable ties to secure the wiring harness.
    • Avoid areas that may pinch, cut, or melt the wire.

12. Store the 4-Flat Connector:

    • Route the 4-flat connector through the driver’s side trim panel into the spare tire compartment for storage when not in use.

Safety Notes:

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

Manufacturer Notes:

• Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual and the instruction sheet for additional details.
• Store these instructions for future reference.