Does the Heat Shield on a 2007 Pontiac Vibe have to be Trimmed to Install a Trailer Hitch
Question:
The description for this hitch receiver states Heat shield modification may be required. Are any modifications needed to the heat shield of my 2007 Pontiac Vibe non-GT model to install this product? Thank you.
asked by: Greg
Expert Reply:
The only note in the actual instructions for Curt Trailer Hitch, # 12234, are for a different vehicle on which this hitch also fits. However, we have found that it is possible that the heat shield in question will need to be trimmed using aviator shears. Heat shields are thin pieces of metal that help to dissipate heat from the exhaust. Trimming a portion will not negatively affect the performance of the vehicle and the process is actually very easy.
I have included a link to the installation details for reference. To complete your towing set up, the hitch comes with the appropriate ball mount, pin and clip. You can use ball # 19256 (1-7/8 inch diameter) or # 19258 (2 inch diameter). For trailer wiring, you would need T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Trailer Connector, # 118458.
For non-trailer loads such as bike racks or cargo carriers, you would need to use a stabilizing strap, # 18050, or a similar strap to be in compliance with the Curt warranty requirements. The strap is used as extra support on the Class I trailer hitch.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Tie Down Straps
- CURT
more information >
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 1-7/8 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-9/16 Inch Shank Length
- 3/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 2000 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-9/16 Inch Shank Length
- 3/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 3500 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 200 lbs TW
- 2000 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
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