For 1998‑2008 Subaru Forester Trailer Hitch + Wiring 4 Pin Except Sport Curt 12038 55370 1‑1/4 Tow Receiver
Model: 12038 55370-CH3438This Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-Flat Fits The Following Vehicles:
1998 - 2008 Subaru Forester Except Sport
This Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-Flat Includes the Following Parts:
- Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Receiver (Easy Bolt-On, No Drilling)
- Custom Wiring Connector, 4-Way Flat Output (Plug & Play)
- Installation instructions, schematics, diagrams, and hardware (if required).
List of Fitment Years:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
CURT 12038 Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4-Inch Receiver
Manufactured by: Curt
Whatever the next checkpoint is on your adventure -- whether it's getting your bike on the trail before sunrise or making it to the campground before dark -- CURT class 2 hitches let you Bring It with confidence These receiver hitches are made to handle most light-duty towing applications and offer a custom fit for your vehicle Typically used on full-size cars, crossovers, compact SUVs, minivans or even compact pickup trucks, a CURT class 2 trailer hitch complements the design of smaller vehicles.
This particular class 2 hitch is made to be a custom hitch for certain years of the Subaru Forester (to verify vehicle compatibility, see application info) It offers a weight carrying capacity of 3,500 lbs GTW and 350 lbs.
TW Class 2 trailer hitches can typically be used to tow a variety of lightweight trailers, such as a small utility trailer, small fishing boat trailer or popup camper (NOTE: Never exceed the lowest weight capacity of any towing component) They are also perfect for adding cargo space to your vehicle with a bike rack or cargo carrier.
This class 2 hitch features a 1-1/4" receiver tube to accept a ball mount shank or other hitch-mounted accessory For safety, it is tested in accordance with SAE J684 A custom trailer hitch design requires extra care, and as such, CURT class 2 hitches are engineered using real vehicles and hands-on research.
We use high-strength steel, robotic welding and rigorous testing to produce hitches that are built to fit your lifestyle To ensure that each hitch will be a reliable extension of your vehicle, we also finish our hitches in a co-curing of liquid A-coat and black powder coat, giving them long-lasting rust and wear resistance..
Features:
- Rated to 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight and 350 lbs. tongue weight
- Engineered with a vehicle-specific design for a custom fit
- Concealed main body for OE look and seamless integration with the vehicle
- Tested for safety in accordance with SAE J684
- Precisely welded for superior strength and fit
- Protected by a durable high-gloss black powder coat finish
- Co-cured in a rust-resistant liquid A-coat, inside and out
- Equipped with an open-back receiver for easy cleaning
- Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)
- Made in USA (may include imported hardware)
CURT 55370 Vehicle-Side Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness
Manufactured by: Curt
CURT custom wiring connectors are the easiest way to outfit your vehicle with a CURT trailer wiring connection They are built with some of the most advanced technology in the industry, and each one is custom-fitted to work with a specific make and model Some automotive manufacturers install a special socket on the vehicle to be used for vehicle-to-trailer wiring.
Although this special socket is not equipped on every vehicle, a CURT custom wiring connector -- also called a T-connector -- utilizes the socket for simple, stress-free installation Rather than requiring you to cut, splice and solder into your vehicle's wiring system, the custom wiring connector uses a single OEM-compatible plug and instantly provides a standard, universal vehicle-to-trailer wiring connection, typically in the form a 4-way flat All CURT custom wiring connectors are made vehicle-specific for the easiest possible installation and the best fit.
This particular plug-in connector provides a 4-way flat socket and is designed to be a custom wiring option for certain years of the Subaru Forester, Legacy, Outback wagon, Tribeca, B9 Tribeca and Impreza WRX wagon (to verify your vehicle compatibility, see application info) It comes with all necessary hardware to establish a solid connection It also comes with a dust cover to keep the connector socket clean when not in use.
To ensure long-lasting reliability, all CURT custom wiring connectors are thoroughly tested for optimal functionality Stress is the last thing you should feel when towing a trailer -- whether you're hauling your RV to that favorite camping destination, your ATVs up to the hunting grounds or your fishing boat to the new hidden hotspot At CURT, we think your towing equipment should add to the enjoyment of your experience, not detract from it..
Features:
- Plugs into existing OEM vehicle socket to provide a 4-way flat socket
- Simple plug-and-play design eliminates the need for cutting or splicing
- 4-way flat output connects tail lights, brake lights and turn signals
- Equipped with tail light converter for vehicle-trailer compatibility
- Constructed with SMT circuitry for better performance and durability
- Dust cover included to keep connector clean when not in use
- Backed by a limited one-year warranty
Hitches Near Me: We operate out of several warehouses across the country, ensuring faster delivery to your location.
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Product Details
- Brand: Curt
- Model: 12038 55370-CH3438
- Includes: Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch, Custom Wiring Connector
Compatibility Chart
| Year Range | Make | Model | Style |
|---|
Description
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For 1998-2008 Subaru Forester Trailer Hitch + Wiring 4 Pin Except Sport Curt 12038 55370 1-1/4 Tow Receiver Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Subaru Forester
Part Numbers:
- 12038
Tools Required:
- Torque wrench
- Ratchet
- 19mm socket
- 5/8" socket
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Lower the Carbon Canister and Exhaust:
- Lower the carbon canister and its bracket from the passenger side frame rail.
- Remove the tie-down brackets from each frame rail.
- Disconnect the rearmost exhaust hanger and remove the hanger bracket from the frame rail.
- If present, remove the center fascia bracket.
- Return the tie-down brackets and exhaust bracket to the vehicle owner.
Note: The 12mm fasteners removed in this step will be reused.
-
Mount the Hitch:
- Position the hitch under the vehicle.
- Sandwich the carbon canister bracket between the hitch and the right frame rail.
- Attach the hitch using the vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners.
-
Modify Tow Hook Pad (if needed):
- Modify the tow hook pad as necessary to allow clearance for the hitch installation.
-
Reattach Exhaust Hanger:
- Remount the rubber exhaust hanger directly to the hitch's left side plate using the provided fasteners.
-
Reinstall the Carbon Canister:
- Remount the carbon canister to its bracket.
-
Torque Fasteners:
- Torque all 12mm fasteners to 79 lb-ft.
- Torque all 7/16" fasteners to 59 lb-ft.
Hardware List:
- Hex Bolt, 7/16-14 x 2, Grade 8, YZ: Qty 1 (Part No. 10-10497)
- Nut, Ser-Flange, 7/16-14, Grade 8, YZ: Qty 2 (Part No. 20-00103)
Safety Notes:
- Gross Load Capacity (Weight Carrying Hitch): 3,500 lbs (trailer weight), 350 lbs (tongue weight).
- Do not exceed the vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
- Periodically check this receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners remain tight and structural components remain sound.
Specifications:
- Hitch Weight: Not specified.
- Installation Time:
- Professional: 36 minutes
- Novice (DIY): 45 minutes
- Drilling Required: No
- Lower Exhaust: Yes
Manufacturer Notes:
- Designed for use with Ball Mount #D-55003 / 45503.
- Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship at the time of purchase.
- For technical support, call Curt Manufacturing at 1-877-287-8634.
Installation Instructions for Subaru Forester
Part Numbers:
- 12038
Tools Required:
- Torque wrench
- Ratchet
- 19mm socket
- 5/8" socket
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Lower the Carbon Canister and Exhaust:
- Lower the carbon canister and its bracket from the passenger side frame rail.
- Remove the tie-down brackets from each frame rail.
- Disconnect the rearmost exhaust hanger and remove the hanger bracket from the frame rail.
- If present, remove the center fascia bracket.
- Return the tie-down brackets and exhaust bracket to the vehicle owner.
Note: The 12mm fasteners removed in this step will be reused.
-
Mount the Hitch:
- Position the hitch under the vehicle.
- Sandwich the carbon canister bracket between the hitch and the right frame rail.
- Attach the hitch using the vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners.
-
Modify Tow Hook Pad (if needed):
- Modify the tow hook pad as necessary to allow clearance for the hitch installation.
-
Reattach Exhaust Hanger:
- Remount the rubber exhaust hanger directly to the hitch's left side plate using the provided fasteners.
-
Reinstall the Carbon Canister:
- Remount the carbon canister to its bracket.
-
Torque Fasteners:
- Torque all 12mm fasteners to 79 lb-ft.
- Torque all 7/16" fasteners to 59 lb-ft.
Hardware List:
- Hex Bolt, 7/16-14 x 2, Grade 8, YZ: Qty 1
- Nut, Ser-Flange, 7/16-14, Grade 8, YZ: Qty 2
Safety Notes:
- Gross Load Capacity (Weight Carrying Hitch): 3,500 lbs (trailer weight), 350 lbs (tongue weight).
- Do not exceed the vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
- Periodically check this receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners remain tight and structural components remain sound.
Specifications:
- Hitch Weight: Not specified.
- Installation Time:
- Professional: 36 minutes
- Novice (DIY): 45 minutes
- Drilling Required: No
- Lower Exhaust: Yes
Additional Information:
Attention: This is a summary of the installation procedure. For complete installation instructions, including diagrams and detailed information from the manufacturer, please download the full installation PDF.
Technical Support:
For technical support and assistance, our team of experts is available to help. You can reach our tech support by visiting www.trailerjacks.com or calling 877-869-6690.
Warranty Information:
Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship for the specified duration. For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.
End of Instructions
Installation Instructions for Subaru B9 Tribeca, Subaru Forester, Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon, Subaru Legacy Wagon, Subaru Outback Wagon (excluding Sport), and Subaru Tribeca
Part Number:
- 55370
Tools Required:
- Phillips screwdriver
Electrical System Specifications:
- Signal Circuits: 3.0 amps per side
- Tail/Running Circuits: 6.0 amps total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Open the Vehicle Tailgate:
- Open the vehicle's tailgate to access the cargo area.
-
Locate the Vehicle Wiring Harness:
- Subaru Outback:
- Remove the cargo nets and carpet from the center and left cargo area.
- Use a pry tool to remove the black plastic panels from the center and left cargo area.
- Subaru Forester:
- Locate the vehicle wiring connector in the spare tire area on the passenger side, under the threshold or carpet panel near the passenger side interior trim panel.
- Remove the fasteners securing the trim panel and then remove the panel.
- Subaru Tribeca:
- Remove the cargo nets and roll back the carpet in the rear cargo area.
- Remove the four plastic fasteners securing the jack compartment.
- The harness will be located under the rear trim panel near the jack compartment.
- Subaru Outback:
-
Connect the Custom Wiring Connector:
- Once the vehicle wiring connector is located, remove any tape covering the plug.
- Insert the custom wiring connector into the vehicle connector, ensuring it is fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
- Subaru Outback Only:
- Insert the 4-flat connector through the existing hole in the panel.
-
Insert the Fuse:
- Insert the provided 10-amp fuse into the inline fuse holder.
-
Route and Store the 4-Flat Connector:
- When in use, route the 4-flat connector to the center of the vehicle and out of the trunk.
- When not in use, roll up the connector and store it in a convenient, out-of-the-way location inside the trunk.
- Secure any loose wires with the provided cable ties.
-
Reinstall Removed Components:
- Reinstall all items removed during the installation.
- Install the provided 4-flat dust cover to help prevent corrosion.
Safety Notes:
- Warning: The battery connection must be fuse-protected with a maximum 10-amp fuse. Exceeding the product rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating, and potential fire. Do not exceed the product rating or the tow vehicle lamp load rating, whichever is lower.
Installation Instructions
Part Number:
- 55370
Tools Required:
- Phillips screwdriver
Electrical System Specifications:
- Signal Circuits: 3.0 amps per side
- Tail/Running Circuits: 6.0 amps total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Open the Vehicle Tailgate:
- Open the vehicle's tailgate to access the cargo area.
-
Locate the Vehicle Wiring Harness:
- Subaru Outback:
- Remove the cargo nets and carpet from the center and left cargo area.
- Use a pry tool to remove the black plastic panels from the center and left cargo area.
- Subaru Forester:
- Locate the vehicle wiring connector in the spare tire area on the passenger side, under the threshold or carpet panel near the passenger side interior trim panel.
- Remove the fasteners securing the trim panel and then remove the panel.
- Subaru Tribeca:
- Remove the cargo nets and roll back the carpet in the rear cargo area.
- Remove the four plastic fasteners securing the jack compartment.
- The harness will be located under the rear trim panel near the jack compartment.
- Subaru Outback:
-
Connect the Custom Wiring Connector:
- Once the vehicle wiring connector is located, remove any tape covering the plug.
- Insert the custom wiring connector into the vehicle connector, ensuring it is fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
- Subaru Outback Only:
- Insert the 4-flat connector through the existing hole in the panel.
-
Insert the Fuse:
- Insert the provided 10-amp fuse into the inline fuse holder.
-
Route and Store the 4-Flat Connector:
- When in use, route the 4-flat connector to the center of the vehicle and out of the trunk.
- When not in use, roll up the connector and store it in a convenient, out-of-the-way location inside the trunk.
- Secure any loose wires with the provided cable ties.
-
Reinstall Removed Components:
- Reinstall all items removed during the installation.
- Install the provided 4-flat dust cover to help prevent corrosion.
Safety Notes:
- Warning: The battery connection must be fuse-protected with a maximum 10-amp fuse. Exceeding the product rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating, and potential fire. Do not exceed the product rating or the tow vehicle lamp load rating, whichever is lower.
Warranty:
For complete warranty information, please download the full installation PDF.
Technical Support:
For technical support and assistance, our team of experts is available to help. You can reach our tech support by visiting www.trailerjacks.com or calling 877-869-6690.
