Question:
I am installing a Draw-tite 75742 Class 3 hitch. The hitch comes with a moutning plate for the electrical connector. Your video shows the installation of a 118561 harness that sits inside the spare tire well. Why not use a harness that mounts on the hitch? Convenience? Operation quality? Looks? Is the 118561 the harness you would recommend? Thank you
asked by: Jeff K
Expert Reply:
It does seem rather odd that Draw-Tite # 75742 would construct the hitch with a mount to attach a trailer connector mounting bracket when the trailer connector harnesses for the vehicle are designed to be installed so that the trailer connector is stored in the vehicle when its not being used to protect it from damage and corrosion.
If you can locate a grommet in the floor of the cargo area that would allow you to pass the 4 pole connector outside the vehicle, you could certainly do so. There's usually a grommet in the lowest point of the spare tire well which should work well for that purpose. Make a cut in the grommet and feed the trailer connector through the hole, but be sure to seal up the hole afterword with some silicone RTV like # LT37467 to prevent exhaust fumes from getting in the vehicle. You'd use a mounting bracket like # 18144 attached to the mount on the hitch to hold the trailer connector.
For a trailer connector, the Tekonsha # 118561 would work great. You'll also need a ball mount like part # 27533 and # 19260 for a 1-7/8 or # 63845 for a 2 inch trailer ball.
I'll link to install videos for the Draw-Tite # 75742 Class III hitch and the trailer wiring harness.
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
Draw-Tite Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 2-3/4" Rise, 4" Drop - 9" Long - 7.5K
2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs
Loctite RTV 598 High-Performance Silicone Gasket Maker - Black - 2.7-Fl Oz Tube
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"