Recommended Trailer Hitch for 2018 Chrysler Pacifica

Question:

The pictures of the Curt hitch installed show the heat shield uncut, not like the pictures of the Draw Tite, yet the video instructs cutting in both cases. Which is correct? Can the heat shield be modified to still offer protection with the Draw Tite hitch? I believe the heat shield is required, especially when pulling a trailer, or Chrysler would not have installed it. Also, why no light plug mount for the Curt hitch? I will be interested in purchasing one of the two is the reason Im asking.

asked by: Robert S

Expert Reply:

Both the Draw-Tite Class III Trailer Hitch # 76046 and the Curt Class III # C13383, which are confirmed to fit your 2018 Chrysler Pacifica, will require that the heat shield is trimmed/modified for proper installation. In both cases the heat shield does get reattached after the hitch is in place. Even when trimming the heat shield, your vehicle will still be protected because the installed hitch will essentially be taking the place of the trimmed off portions.

Between the two hitches, I recommend going with the Draw-Tite # 76046. This particular model features a heavier duty construction and also has the integrated connector bracket that you mentioned for easy mounting of your wiring harness. This is simply a design choice that Curt decided not to put on their model. I have attached an installation video on the 2017 model Pacifica that you can use for reference, along with the written instructions.

expert reply by: Chris R