Different Installation Difficulty Ratings for Hitches for the 2013 Volvo XC60

Question:

The Curt 13268 shows an installation difficulty of 7/10 and time of 1:10, versus the very similar Hidden-Hitch 87566 which shows a difficulty of 5/10 and time of 0:50, yet they share the same installation instructions. Is there anything in particular that makes the Curt installation more difficult than the other practically identical hitches?

asked by: Mark T

Expert Reply:

The hitch installation difficulty ratings we show for the three hitches specified for your 2013 Volvo XC60 are based on the manufacturer ratings. These are the estimated times required for an experienced professional installer to complete the job. For any hitch, the time needed for a first-time effort will be longer; how much longer will depend to a degree on whether you have access to the tools and equipment resources a professional installer would have, such as a vehicle lift.

Both hitches specified for your XC60, DrawTite # 75671, and Curt # 13268, require many of the same processes for installation, including temporary lowering of the exhaust, modification/cutting of the heat shield, and removal/trimming of the bumper cover on R-Design models. Because Hidden Hitch and Draw-Tite brands come from the same manufacturer, these share the same instructions and 5-rating for installation difficulty, as you noted. The Curt hitch may be rated as more difficult simply because its manufacturer rates such things differently. Instructions for all hitch products are included.

I reviewed the different sets of instructions for these hitches and I found no substantial differences, so I think its a case of different manufacturers having different opinions, rather than there being major differences.

I have included several help articles you might want to review; these cover hitch installation tips, items needed for towing and tips for safe towing.

One you select your hitch, for example the Hidden Hitch # 87566, you will also need a ball mount, pin & clip, hitch ball and wiring harness. Ball mounts are available with a range of rise or drop to match your vehicle and trailer heights; we offer a complete cost-effective kit that includes 2 different ball mounts that offer various rise and drop, 2 sizes of hitch ball and the pin & clip all together in a handy carry bag, part # 989900. This is a great option if you may be towing more than one trailer. Please refer to the article concerning selection of a ball mount.

The custom wiring harness for your vehicle, Tow Ready Wiring for the 2013 Volvo XC60, part # 118739, is a plug-in no-splicing wiring harness made specifically for your XC60.