The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # 13707 only requires modification to the passenger side exhaust bracket on 2003 and later models with dual exhaust. You will not have to modify the exhaust on your 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis.
If you had a 2003 or later model the passenger side exhaust hanger is removed before installing the receiver. Then it is reversed and attached with the additional 5/16" hardware included in the kit after the receiver has been installed.
I do recommend installing... view full answer...