The Curt trailer hitch receiver for your 1997 Mercury Sable is the Class II # C12232. If the rust can be sanded off and the hitch repainted, then it is likely still structurally sound. The best way to have them evaluated is to have a trailer shop inspect them. I would err on the side of caution and replace the hitch if you don't feel comfortable using it.
If the hardware needs to be replaced, you can use # RHK then select c12232 as the model number and purchas the kit, then purchase... view full answer...
The 4-Pole Hardwire Kit, # 20250 is similar to the product you need but it is not quite the right one. The wiring harness for your 2004 Mercury Sable is Draw-Tite Wiring, # 18252. (If your trailer has additional lighting requirements you may need to use the Upgraded Circuit Protected Modulite with 4 Pole Harness and Hardwire Kit, # 119178KIT, to handle the added power draw from the vehicle.)
This wiring harness will need to be spliced into your vehicles existing taillight wiring. I have... view full answer...
The Curt trailer hitch receiver that fits the 1995 Mercury Sable is part # C12232 and it does not require any drilling to install it. The hitch you looked at, part # C11207, does not fit the Sable at all. It actually fits the Honda Civic and Acura EL from the late 1990s.
With the correct # C12232 hitch you also need to add a ball mount. The recommended one is part # C45522 with either the 2 inch hitch ball # C40018 or the 1-7/8 inch hitch ball # C40001. You also need a pin and clip,... view full answer...
You will need to insert the shank of your T2 bike carrier in the Draw-Tite receiver until the auto-pin fits in the larger hole.
You do not use the smaller hole at all. view full answer...
I recommend the Curt Class II 1-1/4 Inch Hitch, part # C12232, for your 1997 Mercury Sable. This hitch has a maximum gross trailer weight capacity of 3,500 lbs and a tongue weight capacity of 300 lbs.
You will need the recommended ball mount, part # C45522 and will also need a hitch ball like the Tow Ready 2 Inch Hitch Ball, part # 19258, For a wiring harness, you will use the # C55343 if you have a Wagon and # HM40565 if you have a sedan. I am including a link to the installation instructions... view full answer...