Hardware Size Used to Install Curt # C14011 or Torklift # TLF1006 on 2000 Ford Excursion

Question:

Greetings and thanks for your help. The question I have is in regards to the 2000 and early 2001 Excursions. From my research, those model years had an early model hitch that had smaller 14mm hardware and the later 2001-2005 models had an updated hitch with 18mm hardware that raised the max tongue weight from 1000 to 1200. Many people are interested in upgrading their hitches to the higher specification. One of your experts responded to a similar question in regards to the Curt 14011 which you also sell. That expert stated that the Curt came with the larger 18mm hardware and matching 1200 max rating that was equal to the later model Excursion factory equipment. The folks that have upgraded their hitches to the stronger version and 18mm hardware have required drilling the frame to accommodate the larger hardware. The TorkLift hitch description does not state what size hardware it provides, however, I suspect that it most likely provides the equivalent 18mm hardware which would require drilling on a 2000-early 2001 model Excursion. I am looking to upgrade a 2000 model to the stronger specification Curt or TorkLift and would like clarification of the hardware and drilling required for myself and anyone else looking to do this upgrade. Thanks!

asked by: Robert

Expert Reply:

To see installation details for both hitches, click the provided links.

The Curt # C14011 installs using 18mm bolts that use existing nut plates in your Excursion's frame. No drilling is required to completed the installation. The hitch has a 12,000 lb towing/1200 lb tongue weight capacity.

The Torklift # TLF1006 installs using 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch hardware, and nuts. The existing nut plates are removed, so you'll need to remove the rear bumper to access the interior of the frame members to remove the nut plates. No drilling is required. The hitch has a 17,000 lb towing and a 1700 tongue weight capacity. You'll be limited by the actual towing capacity of the Excursion, if it's less than the capacity of the hitch.

expert reply by: Mike L