Installation Instructions for a Reese Towpower Hitch
by Krista Martin
The Reese Towpower is a tow hitch that is suitable for attachment to passenger cars, sport utility vehicles, vans and light trucks. The Towpower hitch has a 6000-pound gross trailer weight capacity and has a tongue rated at 600 pounds. While no special tools are needed to install it, the procedure may vary slightly depending on the type of tow vehicle, so be sure to consult your specific product instructions.
Step 1
Position the Reese Towpower hitch near the rear frame of the vehicle. Place the side brackets of the hitch against the end of the vehicle frame and align the rear edge of the bracket with the end of the frame. The side brackets are the two sections of the hitch assembly that point outward. In some vehicles, it may be necessary to drill a fourth hole to accommodate the hitch assembly. Make a 1/2-inch-diameter hole in the frame if necessary.
Step 2
Hold the hitch assembly up to the vehicle frame and line up the mounting holes. You will need an assistant to hold the hitch assembly in place while you bolt the hitch to the frame.
Step 3
Place 1/2-inch-thick spacers between the frame and the first two holes "1" and "4" in the side plate brackets. Snap them firmly in place. Drill 1/2-inch holes in the frame, if needed, and insert a carriage bolt up through the frame and into the first hole.
Step 4
Thread the carriage bolt onto the pull wire with by hand and tighten with a torque wrench. Place a bolt plate over the bolt and push the wire over the top of the frame and between the gas tank and vehicle frame. Use your fingers to pull the wire through hole number "4", bringing the bolt through the hole.
Step 5
Attach the remaining bolts using lock washers and threaded nuts on all. Move the tow vehicle into position to prepare for connection with the trailer.
References
Things You'll Need
- 3/4-inch socket set
- Electric drill
- 1/2-inch drill bit
- Torque wrench
Writer Bio
Krista Martin has been writing professionally since 2005. She has written for magazines, newspapers and websites including Live Listings, "Homes & Living" magazine and the "Metro Newspaper." Martin holds an honors Bachelor of Arts in English from Memorial University of Newfoundland and a Master of Journalism from the University of Westminster.
