Tools Required to Install EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2018 BMW i3

Question

Question:

On my question Tools required ..., you mentioned that I would benefit from having the harness. However, if I am only running a bike carrier with no electrical, do I still need a harness? My apologies if this is a dumb question

asked by: Mark K

0

Expert Reply:

The EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver # 306-X7277 does rate a 10 out of 10 on our difficulty rating as it is a very in depth installation. It requires removal of the rear bumper cover and trimming of bumper cover, underbody panel and wire harness holder to properly install the receiver. There are several different tools such as a hack saw, coping saw, reciprocating saw, and a jig saw that would allow you to accomplish the cutting required. You will also need a basic set of hand tools with different sockets, wrenches and screw drivers. An external torx socket is required to remove the factory bumper bolts and a torque wrench is required to ensure proper fastener torque when installing the receiver bolts.

I recommend installing the Tekonsha ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness # 119250KIT when you install the receiver. It will be much easier to access all the wiring while you already have the vehicle partially apart. The wiring harness uses sensors to detect power to the turn signals and brakes rather than splicing into the wire. A small circuit tester is included to help find the correct wiring for the harness.

expert reply by: Bud M

0

Mark K.

1/1/0001

On my question Tools required ..., you mentioned that I would benefit from having the harness. However, if I am only running a bike carrier with no electrical, do I still need a harness? My apologies if this is a dumb question

Reply

Gregory M.

7/29/2021

That is not a dumb question at all, I recommend having it for 2 reasons. The first is I wasn't sure if you would ever be towing a small trailer with the receiver or not. Secondly depending on the bike rack or carrier it might be a good idea to have some Auxiliary Lights # C53201 if your taillights are blocked by your items. This ensures that the other drivers can see your lights and have no excuse if they rear end you.

Reply

Answer 1

The EcoHitch #306-X7277 Hitch Receiver is a confirmed fit for your 2017 BMW i3. You will not be the first person to succesfully install this hitch on their BMW. However, our suppliers do not seek "authorization" from any…

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Answer 2

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 3

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 4

Class I and Class II hitches both have a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. The difference is that a Class I hitch has a lower tongue weight rating, usually 200 pounds and a lower towing rating, usually 2,000 pounds. A Class II hitch usually has a tongue…

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Answer 5

To add a hitch to your 2024 Toyota RAV4, I recommend the etrailer item #e23ZR. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Toyota with included hardware. This is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. It has a 4,000 lbs towing capacity, and a…

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Answer 6

Yes, we do. To add a hitch to your 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch item #C26VV. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Toyota with included hardware. This is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. It has…

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Answer 7

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

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Answer 8

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Answer 9

Yep, so long as your 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is not a hybrid both the Curt and etrailer hitches will fit: - Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C13382 - etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e98912 The only difference besides price is the finish; the…

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Answer 10

As far as wiring for the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, we do have the Curt #C59236 available which is more of a universal hardwire harness. Unfortunately there are not any plug-and-play options that have been confirmed to fit as of yet (October 4,…

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Answer 11

To add a class III hitch to your 2024 Honda CR-V hybrid, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch item #C13397. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your CR-V with included hardware. It is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. I really like this…

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Answer 12

I definitely understand being a bit overwhelmed by the amount of options in front of you, however I can definitely help with differentiating the trailer hitches for your 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon along with explaining my personal recommendation,…

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