Product Details
- Brand: Curt
- Model: 14374 51457 56229 55774 45311 21500 40178 51160-CH3231
- Includes: Class 4 Trailer Tow Hitch, Replacement USCAR Socket with 24" Wires, Dual-Output 7 & 4-Way Connector Plugs into USCAR, Trailer Brake Controller Harness, Class 4 Ball Mount 2" Shank, 5/8" Hitch Pin 2" Receiver, 2-5/16" Trailer Ball 1-1/4" x 2-5/8" Shank, Assure Proportional Trailer Brake Controller with Dynamic Screen
Compatibility Chart
Description
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For 2019-2024 Ram 1500 Classic Tow Package Camp n' Field Trailer Hitch + Brake Controller Curt Assure 51160 Proportional Up To 4 Axles + 7 Way Trailer Wiring Plug & 2-5/16" ball 4 inch drop Except factory receiver Curt 14374 2 inch Tow Receiver Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Dodge Ram 1500 Without OEM Hitch
Part Numbers:
- 14374
Tools Required:
- Socket Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- 21mm Socket
- 3/4" Socket
- 6" Socket Extension
Hardware List:
- Carriage Bolt: 1/2-13 x 1-1/2", Grade 8, YZ (Qty: 4)
- Flange Nut: 1/2-13 UNC, Grade 8, YZ (Qty: 4)
- Square Hole Spacer: 0.188 x 1.00 x 3.00" (CM-SP40) (Qty: 2)
- Square Hole Spacer: 0.250 x 1.50 x 3.00" (CM-SP4) (Qty: 2)
- Fishwire: 1/2" x 30" (Qty: 1)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Lower Spare Tire:
- Lower the spare tire for ease of installation.
-
Remove Existing Bolts:
- Remove the M14 bolts securing the bumper beam to the frame rails on both sides.
- Save these bolts for use in Step 6.
-
Reverse Fishwire Carriage Bolts:
- Reverse fishwire the 1/2-13 x 1-1/2" carriage bolts and CM-SP40 spacers through the large round holes in the driver and passenger-side frame rails.
- Follow the Reverse Pull Fishwire Technique diagram for proper execution.
-
Fishwire Carriage Bolts Through Bumper Beam:
- Fishwire the remaining 1/2-13 x 1-1/2" carriage bolts and CM-SP4 spacers through the ends of the bumper beam.
- Pull them out through the slot at the front of the bumper beam. Refer to the Fishwire Technique Diagram for guidance.
-
Raise the Hitch into Position:
- Position the hitch into place, aligning it with the carriage bolts in the frame and bumper beam.
- Loosely install the provided 1/2-13 hex flange nuts onto the carriage bolts.
-
Reinstall Existing Bolts:
- Reinstall the M14 bolts removed in Step 2 to secure the bumper beam and hitch to the frame.
-
Torque Fasteners:
- Torque all 1/2" hardware to 110 lb-ft.
- Torque all M14 hardware to 126 lb-ft.
-
Raise Spare Tire:
- Return the spare tire to its original position.
Safety Notes:
- No Drilling Required: Installation uses existing holes in the bumper beam and frame rails.
- Fishwire Technique: Use the fishwire tool carefully to avoid losing hardware inside the frame rails.
- Periodically inspect the hitch to ensure all fasteners remain tight and components are structurally sound.
Specifications:
- Gross Load Capacity (Weight Carrying Hitch):
- Trailer Weight: 10,000 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 1,000 lbs
- Gross Load Capacity (Weight Distribution Hitch):
- Trailer Weight: 12,000 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 1,200 lbs
- Hitch Weight: 49 lbs
Installation Time:
- Professional: 30 minutes
- Novice (DIY): 60 minutes
Manufacturer Notes:
- For installation questions, contact Technical Support at 1-877-287-8634.
- Product Warranty: Curt Manufacturing Inc. guarantees this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship.
Warning: Do not exceed the vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
Installation Instructions for Dodge Ram 1500 Without OEM Hitch
Part Numbers:
- 14374
Tools Required:
- Socket Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- 21mm Socket
- 3/4" Socket
- 6" Socket Extension
Hardware List:
- Carriage Bolt: 1/2-13 x 1-1/2", Grade 8, YZ (Qty: 4)
- Flange Nut: 1/2-13 UNC, Grade 8, YZ (Qty: 4)
- Square Hole Spacer: 0.188 x 1.00 x 3.00" (Qty: 2)
- Square Hole Spacer: 0.250 x 1.50 x 3.00" (Qty: 2)
- Fishwire: 1/2" x 30" (Qty: 1)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Lower Spare Tire:
- Lower the spare tire for ease of installation.
-
Remove Existing Bolts:
- Remove the M14 bolts securing the bumper beam to the frame rails on both sides.
- Save these bolts for use in Step 6.
-
Reverse Fishwire Carriage Bolts:
- Reverse fishwire the 1/2-13 x 1-1/2" carriage bolts and spacers through the large round holes in the driver and passenger-side frame rails.
- Follow the Reverse Pull Fishwire Technique diagram for proper execution.
-
Fishwire Carriage Bolts Through Bumper Beam:
- Fishwire the remaining 1/2-13 x 1-1/2" carriage bolts and spacers through the ends of the bumper beam.
- Pull them out through the slot at the front of the bumper beam. Refer to the Fishwire Technique Diagram for guidance.
-
Raise the Hitch into Position:
- Position the hitch into place, aligning it with the carriage bolts in the frame and bumper beam.
- Loosely install the provided 1/2-13 hex flange nuts onto the carriage bolts.
-
Reinstall Existing Bolts:
- Reinstall the M14 bolts removed in Step 2 to secure the bumper beam and hitch to the frame.
-
Torque Fasteners:
- Torque all 1/2" hardware to 110 lb-ft.
- Torque all M14 hardware to 126 lb-ft.
-
Raise Spare Tire:
- Return the spare tire to its original position.
Safety Notes:
- No Drilling Required: Installation uses existing holes in the bumper beam and frame rails.
- Fishwire Technique: Use the fishwire tool carefully to avoid losing hardware inside the frame rails.
- Periodically inspect the hitch to ensure all fasteners remain tight and components are structurally sound.
Specifications:
- Gross Load Capacity (Weight Carrying Hitch):
- Trailer Weight: 10,000 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 1,000 lbs
- Gross Load Capacity (Weight Distribution Hitch):
- Trailer Weight: 12,000 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 1,200 lbs
- Hitch Weight: 49 lbs
Installation Time:
- Professional: 30 minutes
- Novice (DIY): 60 minutes
Manufacturer Notes:
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.
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 at the time of purchase. For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.
Warning: Do not exceed the vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
Installation Instructions for USCAR Replacement Socket and 7-Way Connector
Tools Required:
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Adjustable Wrench
- Test Light or Multimeter
- Wire Crimpers
- Cable Ties (optional)
Overview:
This guide provides instructions for installing a USCAR replacement socket and a 7-way connector. The USCAR socket connects to your vehicle’s wiring harness and serves as the interface for the 7-way connector, enabling trailer lighting and braking functions.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Part 1: Install the USCAR Replacement Socket
-
Locate the Vehicle Wiring Harness:
- Identify the vehicle body harness, typically located along the driver-side frame rail or under the bed near the taillights.
- Use a test light or multimeter to confirm the function of each circuit in the harness:
- White Wire: Ground (-)
- Black Wire: Power (+)
- Blue Wire: Brake Controller Output
- Brown Wire: Tail Lights
- Yellow Wire: Left Turn Signal and Brake
- Green Wire: Right Turn Signal and Brake
- Red Wire: Auxiliary or Reverse Lights
-
Connect the Wires:
- Match the wires from the USCAR replacement socket harness to the corresponding vehicle harness wires based on function, not color.
- Use the provided splice connectors or butt connectors to secure each connection.
- For thicker gauge wires, use the yellow connectors included in the kit.
- Ensure the white ground wire is connected to a clean, solid grounding point on the vehicle’s frame using a self-tapping screw and ring terminal.
-
Mount the USCAR Socket:
- Attach the USCAR socket to the mounting bracket using the screws and nuts provided.
- Secure the mounting bracket to the hitch or vehicle frame using the provided hardware.
-
Test the USCAR Socket:
- Use a test light or trailer to verify the socket’s functionality before proceeding.
Part 2: Install the 7-Way Connector
-
Plug in the 7-Way Connector:
- Align the connector from the 7-way assembly with the USCAR socket and push it in until it clicks securely.
-
Mount the 7-Way Connector:
- Attach the 7-way connector to the bracket using the provided screws and nuts.
- Ensure the spring-loaded cover is facing upward to protect the connector from water and debris.
-
Secure the Wiring:
- Use cable ties to secure any loose wiring to prevent damage or interference with vehicle components.
-
Test the 7-Way Connector:
- Verify each function of the 7-way connector using a test light or trailer:
- Brown Wire: Tail Lights
- Yellow Wire: Left Turn Signal and Brake
- Green Wire: Right Turn Signal and Brake
- Blue Wire: Trailer Brake Control
- Black Wire: Auxiliary Power
- Red Wire: Reverse Lights
- White Wire: Ground
- Verify each function of the 7-way connector using a test light or trailer:
Notes:
- Always match wires by function, not color, to ensure proper connections.
- Confirm all circuits are functional before securing the wiring permanently.
- Use cable ties to neatly bundle and secure the wiring.
Warning: Incorrect wiring or overloaded circuits can cause electrical damage or fire. Test all connections thoroughly before towing.
Installation Instructions for USCAR Replacement Socket and 7-Way Connector
Tools Required:
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Adjustable Wrench
- Test Light or Multimeter
- Wire Crimpers
- Cable Ties (optional)
Overview:
This guide provides instructions for installing a USCAR replacement socket and a 7-way connector. The USCAR socket connects to your vehicle’s wiring harness and serves as the interface for the 7-way connector, enabling trailer lighting and braking functions.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Part 1: Install the USCAR Replacement Socket
-
Locate the Vehicle Wiring Harness:
- Identify the vehicle body harness, typically located along the driver-side frame rail or under the bed near the taillights.
- Use a test light or multimeter to confirm the function of each circuit in the harness:
- White Wire: Ground (-)
- Black Wire: Power (+)
- Blue Wire: Brake Controller Output
- Brown Wire: Tail Lights
- Yellow Wire: Left Turn Signal and Brake
- Green Wire: Right Turn Signal and Brake
- Red Wire: Auxiliary or Reverse Lights
-
Connect the Wires:
- Match the wires from the USCAR replacement socket harness to the corresponding vehicle harness wires based on function, not color.
- Use the provided splice connectors or butt connectors to secure each connection.
- For thicker gauge wires, use the yellow connectors included in the kit.
- Ensure the white ground wire is connected to a clean, solid grounding point on the vehicle’s frame using a self-tapping screw and ring terminal.
-
Mount the USCAR Socket:
- Attach the USCAR socket to the mounting bracket using the screws and nuts provided.
- Secure the mounting bracket to the hitch or vehicle frame using the provided hardware.
-
Test the USCAR Socket:
- Use a test light or trailer to verify the socket’s functionality before proceeding.
Part 2: Install the 7-Way Connector
-
Plug in the 7-Way Connector:
- Align the connector from the 7-way assembly with the USCAR socket and push it in until it clicks securely.
-
Mount the 7-Way Connector:
- Attach the 7-way connector to the bracket using the provided screws and nuts.
- Ensure the spring-loaded cover is facing upward to protect the connector from water and debris.
-
Secure the Wiring:
- Use cable ties to secure any loose wiring to prevent damage or interference with vehicle components.
-
Test the 7-Way Connector:
- Verify each function of the 7-way connector using a test light or trailer:
- Brown Wire: Tail Lights
- Yellow Wire: Left Turn Signal and Brake
- Green Wire: Right Turn Signal and Brake
- Blue Wire: Trailer Brake Control
- Black Wire: Auxiliary Power
- Red Wire: Reverse Lights
- White Wire: Ground
- Verify each function of the 7-way connector using a test light or trailer:
Notes:
- Always match wires by function, not color, to ensure proper connections.
- Confirm all circuits are functional before securing the wiring permanently.
- Use cable ties to neatly bundle and secure the wiring.
Warning: Incorrect wiring or overloaded circuits can cause electrical damage or fire. Test all connections thoroughly before towing.
For complete installation instructions, including diagrams and detailed information from the manufacturer, please download the full installation PDF.
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.
Installation Instructions for Ram Vehicles
Part Numbers:
- 51457
Wiring Access Location:
- BH2 - Under dash, to the right of the steering column
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Locate the vehicle brake control harness connector
- Find the grey, 4-pin vehicle brake control harness connector under the dash, to the right of the steering wheel.
- It will be taped to another harness and will resemble the CURT brake control harness.
- Remove any foam padding from the connector if present.
Step 2: Connect the CURT harness to the vehicle connector
- Insert the CURT brake control harness connector into the vehicle connector.
- Ensure the connector is fully inserted and the locking tabs are secure (A).
Step 3: Connect to the brake control unit
- Attach the brake control harness's black connector to the brake control's quick plug connector (B).
- Secure the harness using the provided cable ties, avoiding pinch points.
Step 4: Mount and test the brake control unit
- Mount the brake control unit as directed in its user manual.
- Perform the recommended test procedures to verify functionality.
Hardware List:
- (1) CURT brake control harness
- (2) Cable ties
Specifications:
- Compatible Vehicles:
- Ram 1500
- Ram 2500
- Ram 3500
Installation Instructions for Ram Vehicles
Part Numbers:
- 51457
Wiring Access Location:
- BH2 - Under dash, to the right of the steering column
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Locate the vehicle brake control harness connector
- Find the grey, 4-pin vehicle brake control harness connector under the dash, to the right of the steering wheel.
- It will be taped to another harness and will resemble the brake control harness.
- Remove any foam padding from the connector if present.
Step 2: Connect the brake control harness to the vehicle connector
- Insert the brake control harness connector into the vehicle connector.
- Ensure the connector is fully inserted and the locking tabs are secure.
Step 3: Connect to the brake control unit
- Attach the brake control harness's black connector to the brake control's quick plug connector.
- Secure the harness using the provided cable ties, avoiding pinch points.
Step 4: Mount and test the brake control unit
- Mount the brake control unit as directed in its user manual.
- Perform the recommended test procedures to verify functionality.
Hardware List:
- (1) Brake control harness
- (2) Cable ties
Specifications:
- Compatible Vehicles:
- Vehicles with BH2 wiring location
For complete installation instructions, including diagrams and detailed information from the manufacturer, please download the full installation PDF.
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.
Installation Instructions for Brake Controller
Product Information:
- Application: For trailers with 2 to 8 brakes
- System: 12-volt negative ground systems
Package Contents:
- (1) Brake Controller Module with Quick Plug
- (1) Mounting Bracket
- (2) Keyed Spacers
- (4) Mounting Bracket Screws
- (1) Quick Reference Card
- (2) Keyed Washers
Tools Required:
- Drill with 1/8" drill bit
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Cutters
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
Key Features:
- Display for output and sensitivity settings
- Manual trailer braking control
- Switchable manual control options (100% or output setting)
- Brake light activation switch
- Reverse voltage and overload protection
- Compatible with electric and hydraulic trailer brake systems
Warnings and Important Notes:
- The brake controller’s positive and ground wires must connect directly to the vehicle’s battery with 10-gauge stranded wire.
- Avoid mounting near a CB radio or other RF transmitters.
- Disconnect the trailer plug when testing a breakaway switch.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions:
1. Select the Mounting Location:
- The mounting location should be:
- Within the driver’s reach
- On a solid surface
- Free of obstructions behind the mounting surface
2. Install the Mounting Bracket:
- Position the bracket and mark the mounting holes.
- Drill holes using a 1/8” drill bit.
- Secure the bracket with the provided self-tapping screws (do not overtighten).
3. Attach the Brake Controller:
- Place the keyed spacer and washer on each side of the mounting bracket.
- Slide the brake controller into the bracket and secure it with screws.
4. Wiring the Brake Controller:
- Black Wire (Power Input): Connect to the positive (+) battery terminal through a 30-amp auto-reset circuit breaker.
- White Wire (Ground): Connect directly to the negative (-) battery terminal.
- Red Wire (Stoplight Input): Connect to the stoplight wire that is “hot” only when the brake pedal is pressed.
- Use a test probe to verify the correct wire.
- Blue Wire (Brake Output): Connect to the trailer’s brake control wire through the 7-way connector.
Switch Settings (Manual Control Configuration):
-
Brake Light Activation Switch:
- ON: Activates brake lights when the manual control is used (default).
- OFF: Brake lights remain inactive during manual braking.
-
Manual Brake Output Switch:
- ON: Limits manual braking to the gain (output) setting.
- OFF: Allows 100% braking power regardless of the output setting.
Setup and Calibration:
-
Connect the Trailer:
- Plug the trailer connector into the vehicle’s 7-way outlet.
- The controller will calibrate automatically, displaying "Calibration" followed by "Connected."
-
Set Initial Output and Sensitivity:
- Set the output to 2.0 and sensitivity (load) to 1.0 using the (+) and (-) buttons.
-
Test Drive and Adjust:
- Drive on a level surface at 25 mph.
- Press the brake pedal:
- Increase Output: If trailer braking feels insufficient.
- Decrease Output: If trailer brakes lock up.
- Adjust sensitivity for smoother stops using the (+) and (-) buttons.
Display Indicators:
Indicator | Description |
---|---|
Connected | Trailer connected, standby mode |
Not Connected | No trailer detected |
Low Volt | Tow vehicle system voltage is low |
Overload | Trailer brake system fault detected |
Short | Stoplight wire shorted to ground |
Error | Accelerometer error |
Disconnect | Trailer disconnected |
Troubleshooting Guide:
- Display is Blank: Check power and ground connections.
- Display Shows "Low Volt": Verify vehicle’s battery and charging system.
- "Overload" Error: Inspect the blue wire and trailer brake circuit for shorts.
- No Trailer Brakes: Confirm proper wiring of the trailer connector.
Final Notes:
- Secure all loose wires with cable ties.
- Periodically test the system for proper operation.
- Avoid exceeding the towing vehicle's maximum electrical capacity.
Attention: This is a summary of the installation procedure. For complete installation instructions, including diagrams and detailed information, download the full installation PDF.
For Technical Support: Our team of experts is available to help. You can reach tech support by visiting www.trailerjacks.com or calling 877-869-6690.