How To Install a Trailer Hitch Ball to 1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited
Question:
is there a factory setup so i can just attach a trailer ball and not have to install hitch assy ??? 1997 subaru legacy outback limited
asked by: John
Expert Reply:
To attach a trailer hitch ball to your 1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited will require the installation of a trailer hitch to your vehicle.
The only vehicles that would allow just a hitch ball to be installed without a hitch are vehicles that have a step bumper that have a hole in the bumper for the installation of the hitch ball. This bumper along with the vehicle it is on are designed to withstand the stress of towing a trailer with only the bumper.
For a hitch to fit your Legacy Outback I would recommend the Curt Class II 1-1/4-Inch Hitch, part # C12270. This hitch has a gross towing weight capacity of 3,500 lbs and a tongue weight capacity of 300 lbs. You will need the recommended ball mount, part # 36061. The only extra part you will need is the hitch ball. If you need a 1-7/8 inch size you can use the Tow Ready 1-7/8 Inch Hitch Ball, part # 19256. If you need the 2 inch size you can use the Tow Ready 2 Inch Hitch Ball, part # 19258.
To operate the lighting on the trailer you will need the Tow Ready T-One Wiring Harness, part # 118461. This will plug into a connector located behind the paneling on the passenger side, directly below the tail light. I am including a link to a video of this wiring harness being installed on a 2001 Subaru Outback Wagon. The vehicle is a different year but the installation will be similar.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
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 >
Draw-Tite Drawbar for 1-1/4" Hitches - 3-1/8" Rise - 9-3/4" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- No Ball
- 3/4 Inch Ball Hole Diameter
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Rise - 3 Inch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- 3500 lbs GTW
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
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 >
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