Trailer Hitch: Service and Repair

TRAILER HITCH

REMOVAL

1. Disconnect and isolate battery negative cable.
2. Raise and support the vehicle.

Fig. 17:

3. Disconnect electrical connector. (Fig. 17)

WARNING: Microencapsulated bolts and self-locking nuts may only be used once. If you use microencapsulated bolt or self-locking nuts more than once, the self-locking function is rendered useless. The trailer hitch may become detached from the vehicle, possibly resulting in a serious risk of injury and/or damage to property, including damage to the vehicle.

Fig. 18:

4. Remove and discard microencapsulated angle bracket bolts/nuts. (Fig. 18)

Fig. 19:

5. Support hitch and remove frame bolts. (Fig. 19)
6. Lower hitch.

INSTALLATION

WARNING: Do not oil or grease the bolts and nuts. if the bolts and nuts are greased, the trailer hitch may become detached from the vehicle, possibly resulting in a serious risk of injury and/or damage to property, including damage to the vehicle.

1. Raise hitch into position.
2. Install the mounting plate and new frame bolts/nuts and hand tighten bolts.

WARNING: Microencapsulated bolts and self-locking nuts may only be used once. If you use microencapsulated bolt or self-locking nuts more than once, the self-locking function is rendered useless. The trailer hitch may become detached from the vehicle, possibly resulting in a serious risk of injury and/or damage to property, including damage to the vehicle.

3. Install the angle bracket microencapsulated bolts/nuts and hand tighten.
4. Align trailer hitch.
5. Tighten the frame mounting bolts to 110 N.m (81 ft.lbs.).
6. Tighten microencapsulated angle bracket bolts to 50 N.m (37 ft.lbs.).
7. Connect trailer socket electrical connector.