- Child's Play
- Mother-In-Laws Do It
- Tricky at Times
- Instructions Required
- You'll Be Here for a
few hours
  • Reese Hitch Kit, available at PartSource
  • See Reese Hitch Kit for details

    • Whether you’re moving your boat, or hauling a camping trailer across the Trans-Canada, summer is the time for towing. Knowing how to properly install a trailer hitch is extremely important. With Reese Hitch Kits, it’s also extremely easy. Available at your local PartSource, these durable kits come with all the hardware and vehicle-specific instructions required to get your caravan moving. Once you have your kit, check out the simple but essential tips below to ensure you, your car and your trailer arrive safely at your destination.

    Remember, if you have any questions or if you're unsure of anything, feel free to contact the Parts Pros at your local PartSource. They’re always ready to help, no matter what the job is.

    Let’s go!

    A few things before you begin

    In case you need them, you can always find free print outs of specific vehicle instructions and torque specifications from Mitchell on Demand at your local PartSource store.

    Everything you need for this job can be found at your local PartSource store. Ask a Parts Pro about what you'll need for the job. It's better to have extra spare parts ready for anything that might need to be replaced. The last thing you want to do, is go shopping when you have the car up on the jack.

    When taking parts apart, be organized. Keep similar parts together in a safe place where they won't get lost and layout parts in a way that will allow you to put them back in the same order.

    Make Safety Your Top Priority

    Every vehicle is different. When it comes to maintenance and repairs, always follow the vehicle's owner's manual.

    Safety should be your number one priority. Don't smoke, drink alcoholic beverages, or wear a necktie while working on the car. Watch out for hot objects, sharp instruments, hazardous materials and other potential safety hazards in and around your workspace.

    Don't work with a Philips when the job calls for flat. Substituting tools can compromise your safety or a vehicle's performance.

    Finally, when the fun turns to frustration, or if the job requires specialized knowledge beyond your capabilities, please do not attempt it yourself. Talk to a Parts Pro or seek the assistance of a professional mechanic or installer. The last thing we want is someone getting hurt.


    		  

    IMPORTANT - Never tow a trailer heavier than the rated tow capacity of your vehicle. For basic info, see chart below.

    Chart Key Compact Cars Mid-Size Cars Full Size Cars, Mini-Trucks & Vans Full-Size Trucks, Vans & SUVs
    Compact Cars Mid-Size Cars Full Size Cars, Mini-Trucks & Vans Full-Size Trucks, Vans & SUVs
    Class I

    Weight Carrying
    TW - Up to 200 lbs.
    GTW - Up to 2,000 lbs.
    Light Duty
    Light Duty
    Light Duty
    Light Duty
    Light Duty
    Light Duty
    Light Duty
    Light Duty
    Class II

    Weight Carrying
    WC TW - Up to 350 lbs.
    WC GTW - Up to 3,500 lbs.
    Medium Duty
    Medium Duty
    Medium Duty
    Medium Duty
    Medium Duty
    Medium Duty
    Class III

    Weight Carrying
    TW - Up to 500 lbs.
    GTW - Up to 5,000 lbs.

    Heavy Duty
    Heavy Duty
    Heavy Duty
    Heavy Duty
    Class IV

    Weight Carrying
    TW - Up to 750 lbs.
    GTW - Up to 7,500 lbs.

    Weight Distribuing
    TW - Up to 1,200 lbs.
    GTW - Up to 12,000 lbs.

    Heavy Duty
    Heavy Duty
    Heavy Duty
    Heavy Duty
    Class V

    Weight Carrying
    TW - Up to 1,200 lbs.
    GTW - Up to 12,000 lbs.

    Weight Distribuing
    TW - Up to 1,400 lbs.
    GTW - Up to 14,000 lbs.


    Extra
    Heavy Duty
    ExtraHeavy Duty
    Source: www.reeseprod.com

    Safety Guidelines for Hitch Installation:
    • Make sure the trailer ball matches the mounting hole.
    • Ensure the trailer ball and coupler match.
    • Check that the wiring matches and works properly.
    • Inspect all lights. (Brake, turn signal etc.)
    • Inspect the safety chains
    • Inspect all hitch components for cracks or broken welds.
    • Do not modify the hitch, by welding additional components on that may fall off at a later date while driving.
    • Inspect the trailer on a regular basis, and repair or replace parts as required. This includes wheel bearings.
    • Check tire pressure and wear.
    • Ensure trailer cargo is securely fastened down.
    IMPORTANT - Never tow more than one trailer at a time.