How to Install a Trailer Hitch
Trailer hitches are used to hook up campers, trailers and other cars to the back of a vehicle for easy towing. These hitches are rated for different towing capacities and can range from handheld to full-bumper length. Trailer hitches are easy to install on trucks, campers or any other vehicle.
Items Needed:
- Car jack
- Wood blocks
- Ratchet and socket
- C clamps
- Drill
- Review the instructions that come inside the packaging of the hitch. There will be specific information on installing that brand of hitch.
- Set the parking brake on the vehicle that the hitch will be attached to. Jack the vehicle up at the back about a foot or two to give you plenty of room to work. Be sure to place blocks under the front two wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Ensure the area where the hitch will be installed is rust-free and not corroded. Never install a hitch on a metal frame that will not support heavy pulling.
- Put together the hitch assembly. This allows you to check for missing parts. Do not tighten any of the bolts. Check that the hitch will fit unobstructed on the vehicle. If necessary, loosen the exhaust system, or adjust the bumper to allow room for installing the hitch.
- Hold the hitch assembly up to where it will be, and drill holes into the frame. Match the location of the holes to those on the hitch. Make the hole no large than 1/16-inch bigger than the holes on the hitch, or the bolts will be loose.
- Clamp the hitch into place on the frame using a C clamp. Insert the bolts and tighten them into place. Be sure to use any reinforcing plates that came with the hitch.
- Connect the electrical components to the hitch. These will allow the brake lights to be visible on anything that is being towed. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for this.