Installing 7-Way Trailer Connector so It Doesnt Get Destroyed Backing out the Driveway

Question

Question:

Mike thank you for the image and explanation. My problem is the bumper cover covers the entire area. I have attached a photo of the rear of the Highlander. Can i mount it the way you suggested after cutting the plastic cover to allow the installation higher above ground level?

asked by: Kenneth H

0

Expert Reply:

Here's what I'd recommend. If you have an exposed portion of the hitch crossbar to work with, use the # 18136 no drill bracket. This fastens to the hitch crossbar using an included pipe clamp. You'll also use the # PK12711U 7-way mounting bracket. I'd begin by mounting the trailer connector to the # PK12711U, so that the mounting flange is at the bottom. Then, attach that to the # 18136 but just leave it finger tight for the moment. Put the # 18136 up against the underside of the hitch crossbar, and see if you have enough clearance. You can also try putting the # 18136 against the top of the crossbar, and see if the bumper will clear the trailer connector. You might need to do a little test fitting, but eventually you'll find a configuration that will clear the bumper but allow you the clearance underneath that you're looking for. Once you have the connector positioned the way you want it, give everything a final tightening.

The photo I've provided shows the # PK12711U mounted upside down as mentioned above.

expert reply by: Mike L

0

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Kenneth H.

1/3/2020

Mike thank you for the image and explanation. My problem is the bumper cover covers the entire area. I have attached a photo of the rear of the Highlander. Can i mount it the way you suggested after cutting the plastic cover to allow the installation higher above ground level?

Reply

Mike L.

1/3/2020

Boy, that's a tough one! You could cut the bumper cover to make that happen, but chances are, that bumper beam will be directly behind that bumper cover, and wouldn't allow enough clearance. I think I might have a couple of solutions for you, though. Take a look at the # 306-X6020 magnetic mounting bracket. If there's a structure behind the hitch that you could affix that to, it might protect the trailer connector better. Another option would be a mounting box like # 18159.

Reply

Answer 1

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Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 4

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Answer 5

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Answer 6

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Answer 7

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Answer 8

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Answer 9

Good news, the Curt Echo does not have to be mounted level for it to function properly. The 45 degree angle of your 7-way plug does not make a difference in the functionality because of the unit's triple-axis accelerometer. The accelerometer is…

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Answer 10

You will need a 1-1/2" wrench like part #C20001 in order to install the nut on the 2" Hitch Ball part #63845. A 1-7/8" wrench would be much too large.

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Answer 11

Yes, we do have a hitch and wiring harness available for the 2023 Kia Telluride. The etrailer Hitch item #e45ZR is confirmed to fit the 2023 model. It is custom fit and bolts directly to your Telluride with included hardware. This is a class III…

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Answer 12

For some reason Toyota isn't very forthcoming with how to figure out if you have the tow package or not. From my understanding all of the V6 models of the 2019 Toyota Highlander have the tow package but it isn't specified as to what else…

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Installing 7-Way Trailer Connector so It Doesnt Get Destroyed Backing out the Driveway

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