Which Hitch for 2019 Ford Edge Does Not Require Heat Shield Removal

Question:

So I've read a few reviews that say the 75234 hitch requires the heat shield to be permanently removed for installation. They mention that the heat shield helps support the bumper skirt and without it, it's not very secure and it kind of flaps around a bit. My question is, can this heat shield be modified in any way to allow it to be re-installed? If not, do you have a hitch that doesn't require permanent removal of the heat shield?

asked by: Eddie

Expert Reply:

I can understand your concern; thankfully, I can offer a couple solutions.

The Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75234 states that only the Sport model of the Edge requires the heat shield to be removed permanently. However, when we installed it on a 2018 Ford Edge Titanium (non Sport), we found that it also required the heat shield to be removed and it cannot be modified or re-installed. The reason this is the case for the # 75234 is because it's designed to fit more snugly against your vehicle, for a more concealed appearance.

If you're concerned about the plastic bumper fascia or "skirt" not being secure enough, some of our customers have been able to fabricate their own brackets to add extra support, eliminating any potential issues. I have attached one customer review as an example.

Now, if you feel like that's too much of a hassle, and you're ok with a more visible hitch cross tube, then your best option is to go with the Draw-Tite # 75214 Hitch Receiver. As you can see in the attached installation video, the heat shield doesn't need to be removed or modified in any way to allow for the hitch to fit in place.

If your planning on using the hitch to tow a trailer, you may also be interested in the following products to complete your towing package:

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat # 118805 - All models excluding Titanium*
OR
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat # C73FR - Titanium models only*

Curt Towing Starter Kit # C45036 - includes ball mount with a pre-torqued hitch ball, hitch pin and clip, hitch receiver lock with keys, hitch cover, and a storage case.