Curt Hitch Installation Difficulty Versus Draw-Tite on 2007 Maxima

Question:

What is the difference in the installation process between the the Curt Hitch and the Draw-Tite Hitch? They appear to be identical in appearance, size, and shape, so I would ASSUME the process to install them all would be the same, but the CURT has a 6 out of 10 for installation while the DrawTite have a 3 out of 10. what gives? thanks.

asked by: Jarreau R

Expert Reply:

I've looked over the installation instructions for the Draw-Tite # 24788 (no longer available) and the Curt # C11264.

I've linked you to the installation instructions for all three hitches, and as you can see, the procedure for installing all three hitches is identical. There are differences between the hitches, however.

The Draw-Tite Class I, # 24788 includes the hitch and the installation hardware only. If all you were needing the hitch for is to provide an attachment point for a bike rack, this is the hitch I'd recommend. If you'll also be doing some light duty towing (check your owners manual to be sure the vehicle is capable of towing), you will need a ball mount, trailer ball and wiring harness which are sold separately. For a 1-7/8 inch ball, use # 19256 or # 19258 for a 2 inch ball. The wiring harness is part # 118470.

The Curt # C11264 would be a fine choice for towing, but I wouldn't recommend it for a bike rack or other hitch mounted accessory. Curt's warranty provisions stipulate that a stabilizing strap like part # 18050 must be used on all non-trailer loads in order to retain warranty coverage. The Draw-Tite product does not have this requirement.

The differences in the install difficulty rating reflect the manufacturer's guesstimate of how difficult the install is. Apparently, they don't agree. After looking over the instructions, I'd classify the installation for both hitches as a 4.