Product Details
- Brand: Curt
- Model: 13438 55384-CH1261
- Includes: Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch, Replacement OE 4-Way Flat Socket T's into USCAR)
Compatibility Chart
Description
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For 2020-2023 Ford Explorer Trailer Hitch + Wiring 4 Pin Fits Models w/ Existing USCAR 7-way Curt 13438 55384 2 inch Tow Receiver Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Ford Explorer / Lincoln Aviator
Part Numbers:
- 13438
Tools Required:
- Ratchet
- Torque Wrench
- 6" Socket Extension
- 7mm Socket
- 10mm Socket
- 21mm Socket
- Aviation Shears
- Power Drill
- 1/4" Drill Bit
- Plastic Rivet Gun
- Marker
- Tape Measure
- Safety Glasses
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Remove Underbody Panel
- If present, use a 10mm socket to remove eight fasteners and four plastic fasteners securing the underbody panel.
- Set aside the panel for reinstallation.
Step 2: Lower the Exhaust
- Support the exhaust to avoid damage.
- Use a 10mm socket to remove one fastener on the outside of the frame rail on each side.
- Remove two exhaust isolator hangers using a rubber isolator removal tool or a 5/8" open-end wrench.
Step 3: Remove Heat Shield
- Use a 10mm socket to remove five fasteners securing each heat shield.
- Remove two wheel well fasteners on each side using a 7mm socket.
- Trim the heat shield as per the trim diagram. Ensure dimensions are verified prior to trimming.
Step 4: Remove Bumper Bolts
- Use a 21mm socket to remove the M16 bumper bolt on each side of the frame.
- Return the bolts to the vehicle owner.
Step 5: Modify Kick Sensor (if equipped)
- If a kick sensor is present, use a drill to remove four out of six rivets along the rear fascia, starting from the driver side.
- Replacement rivets are included for reinstallation.
Step 6: Trim Fascia and Wire Track
- Remove two fasteners inside the bumper cover to allow the fascia to flex.
- Trim the fascia and wire track using aviation shears, avoiding sensor wires by moving them out of the wire track.
- Verify all dimensions prior to trimming.
Step 7: Fishwire Bolts and Spacers
- Fishwire two 1/2" carriage bolts and two CM-SP6 spacers into the access hole and out the mounting holes on each side.
- Reinstall the trimmed heat shield.
- Do not reinstall the rearward-most frame rail nut.
Step 8: Install Hitch
- Raise the hitch into position, ensuring it is positioned between the upper and lower kick sensor wires if equipped.
- Torque all 1/2" hardware to 75 ft-lbs.
- Torque all M16 hardware to 146 ft-lbs.
Step 9: Reassemble Vehicle Components
- Reinstall all components removed in Steps 1–5 in reverse order.
Weight Carrying Capacity:
- Gross Trailer Weight (GTW): 6,000 lbs.
- Tongue Weight (TW): 600 lbs.
Safety Notes:
- Safety glasses must be worn at all times during installation.
- Periodically inspect the hitch to ensure all fasteners are tight and components are secure.
- Never exceed the vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
Hardware List:
- (2) Carriage Bolts, 1/2"-13 x 1-1/4", Grade 8
- (2) Square Hole Spacers, .250" x 1.00" x 3.00"
- (2) Serrated Flange Nuts, 1/2"-13 UNC, Grade 8
- (6) M16 Hex Head Cap Screws
- (6) M16 Flat Washers
- (4) Nylon Rivets
Important Notice:
- This installation requires no drilling but includes part removal, fascia trimming, and fishwiring.
- For assistance, contact technical support at 877-287-8634.
Installation Instructions for Ford Explorer / Lincoln Aviator
Part Numbers:
- 13438
Tools Required:
- Ratchet
- Torque Wrench
- 6" Socket Extension
- 7mm Socket
- 10mm Socket
- 21mm Socket
- Aviation Shears
- Power Drill
- 1/4" Drill Bit
- Plastic Rivet Gun
- Marker
- Tape Measure
- Safety Glasses
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Remove Underbody Panel
- If present, use a 10mm socket to remove eight fasteners and four plastic fasteners securing the underbody panel.
- Set aside the panel for reinstallation.
Step 2: Lower the Exhaust
- Support the exhaust to avoid damage.
- Use a 10mm socket to remove one fastener on the outside of the frame rail on each side.
- Remove two exhaust isolator hangers using a rubber isolator removal tool or a 5/8" open-end wrench.
Step 3: Remove Heat Shield
- Use a 10mm socket to remove five fasteners securing each heat shield.
- Remove two wheel well fasteners on each side using a 7mm socket.
- Trim the heat shield as per the trim diagram. Verify dimensions before trimming.
Step 4: Remove Bumper Bolts
- Use a 21mm socket to remove the M16 bumper bolt on each side of the frame.
- Return the bolts to the vehicle owner.
Step 5: Modify Kick Sensor (if equipped)
- If a kick sensor is present, use a drill to remove four out of six rivets along the rear fascia, starting from the driver side.
- Replacement rivets are included for reinstallation.
Step 6: Trim Fascia and Wire Track
- Remove two fasteners inside the bumper cover to allow the fascia to flex.
- Trim the fascia and wire track using aviation shears, avoiding sensor wires by moving them out of the wire track.
- Verify all dimensions prior to trimming.
Step 7: Fishwire Bolts and Spacers
- Fishwire two 1/2" carriage bolts and two CM-SP6 spacers into the access hole and out the mounting holes on each side.
- Reinstall the trimmed heat shield.
- Do not reinstall the rearward-most frame rail nut.
Step 8: Install Hitch
- Raise the hitch into position, ensuring it is positioned between the upper and lower kick sensor wires if equipped.
- Torque all 1/2" hardware to 75 ft-lbs.
- Torque all M16 hardware to 146 ft-lbs.
Step 9: Reassemble Vehicle Components
- Reinstall all components removed in Steps 1–5 in reverse order.
Weight Carrying Capacity:
- Gross Trailer Weight (GTW): 6,000 lbs
- Tongue Weight (TW): 600 lbs
Safety Notes:
- Safety glasses must be worn at all times during installation.
- Periodically inspect the hitch to ensure all fasteners are tight and components are secure.
- Warning: Never exceed the vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
Hardware List:
- (2) Carriage Bolts, 1/2"-13 x 1-1/4", Grade 8
- (2) Square Hole Spacers, .250" x 1.00" x 3.00"
- (2) Serrated Flange Nuts, 1/2"-13 UNC, Grade 8
- (6) M16 Hex Head Cap Screws
- (6) M16 Flat Washers
- (4) Nylon Rivets
Important Notice:
- This installation requires no drilling but includes part removal, fascia trimming, and fishwiring.
- 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.
- Need Assistance? 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:
The product is covered under warranty for the duration specified. For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.
End of Instructions
Installation Instructions for Various Vehicle Models
Part Number:
- 55384
Applicable Models:
- Buick Enclave
- Buick Rainier
- Cadillac Escalade (including ESV, EXT, Hybrid)
- Chevrolet Avalanche
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Chevrolet Express
- Chevrolet Silverado (including Hybrid)
- Chevrolet Suburban
- Chevrolet Tahoe (including Hybrid)
- Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Chrysler Aspen
- Dodge RAM (1500, 2500, 3500)
- GMC Acadia
- GMC Canyon
- GMC Envoy
- GMC Sierra
- GMC Yukon (including Denali, XL, XL Denali)
- Hummer H2, H3, H3T
- Infiniti QX56
- Isuzu Ascender
- Kia Borrego
- Nissan Pathfinder Armada
- Nissan Titan
- Oldsmobile Bravada
- Saab 9-7X
- Saturn Outlook
Wiring Access Locations:
- Pickup Trucks (T):
- T3: Behind driver's side rear bumper
- T4: Behind center of rear bumper fascia
- SUVs, Mini & Full-Sized Vans (S):
- S3: Behind driver's side rear access panel
- S4: Behind passenger's side rear access panel
- S5: Behind driver's side rear bumper
- S6: Behind center of rear bumper
- S7: Behind passenger's side rear bumper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
For Vehicles Without a Factory 7-Way:
-
Access the Vehicle's Wiring Harness Connectors:
- Locate the connectors behind the driver's side rear bumper at position T3 as shown in the 'Wiring Location Guide'.
-
Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal:
- Refer to the vehicle's owner's manual to locate the battery.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure it away from the battery during installation.
-
Prepare the Connector Housing:
- Remove and retain the protective cap from the housing.
- Ensure the mating surface is clean and free of rust or dirt.
-
Insert the T-Connector:
- Connect the T-connector housing into the vehicle's housing.
- Ensure connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
-
Secure the Protective Cap:
- Place the previously removed protective cap onto the remaining plug end.
-
Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
For Vehicles With a Factory 7-Way:
-
Locate the Factory 7-Way Connector:
- Find the factory 7-way attached to the hitch, behind the center of the rear bumper at position T4 as shown in the 'Wiring Location Guide'.
-
Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal:
- Refer to the vehicle's owner's manual to locate the battery.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure it away from the battery during installation.
-
Separate the Factory Socket:
- Disconnect the factory socket from the 7-way connector.
-
Insert the T-Connector:
- Connect the T-connector between the factory housing and the 7-way housing.
- Ensure connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
-
Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Safety Notes:
- Warning: Do not exceed the product rating or the tow vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower. Exceeding these ratings can lead to loss of warranty, overheating, and potential fire hazards.
Note: After installation, test the function by connecting a test light or properly wired trailer. Refer to the vehicle owner's manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for more information.
Installation Instructions for Various Vehicle Models
Part Number:
- 55384
Applicable Models:
- Buick Enclave
- Buick Rainier
- Cadillac Escalade (including ESV, EXT, Hybrid)
- Chevrolet Avalanche
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Chevrolet Express
- Chevrolet Silverado (including Hybrid)
- Chevrolet Suburban
- Chevrolet Tahoe (including Hybrid)
- Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Chrysler Aspen
- Dodge RAM (1500, 2500, 3500)
- GMC Acadia
- GMC Canyon
- GMC Envoy
- GMC Sierra
- GMC Yukon (including Denali, XL, XL Denali)
- Hummer H2, H3, H3T
- Infiniti QX56
- Isuzu Ascender
- Kia Borrego
- Nissan Pathfinder Armada
- Nissan Titan
- Oldsmobile Bravada
- Saab 9-7X
- Saturn Outlook
Wiring Access Locations:
- Pickup Trucks (T):
- T3: Behind driver's side rear bumper
- T4: Behind center of rear bumper fascia
- SUVs, Mini & Full-Sized Vans (S):
- S3: Behind driver's side rear access panel
- S4: Behind passenger's side rear access panel
- S5: Behind driver's side rear bumper
- S6: Behind center of rear bumper
- S7: Behind passenger's side rear bumper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
For Vehicles Without a Factory 7-Way:
-
Access the Vehicle's Wiring Harness Connectors:
- Locate the connectors behind the driver's side rear bumper at position T3 as shown in the 'Wiring Location Guide'.
-
Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal:
- Refer to the vehicle's owner's manual to locate the battery.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure it away from the battery during installation.
-
Prepare the Connector Housing:
- Remove and retain the protective cap from the housing.
- Ensure the mating surface is clean and free of rust or dirt.
-
Insert the T-Connector:
- Connect the T-connector housing into the vehicle's housing.
- Ensure connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
-
Secure the Protective Cap:
- Place the previously removed protective cap onto the remaining plug end.
-
Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
For Vehicles With a Factory 7-Way:
-
Locate the Factory 7-Way Connector:
- Find the factory 7-way attached to the hitch, behind the center of the rear bumper at position T4 as shown in the 'Wiring Location Guide'.
-
Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal:
- Refer to the vehicle's owner's manual to locate the battery.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure it away from the battery during installation.
-
Separate the Factory Socket:
- Disconnect the factory socket from the 7-way connector.
-
Insert the T-Connector:
- Connect the T-connector between the factory housing and the 7-way housing.
- Ensure connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
-
Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Safety Notes:
- Warning: Do not exceed the product rating or the tow vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower. Exceeding these ratings can lead to loss of warranty, overheating, and potential fire hazards.
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:
- Warranty Duration: [Insert warranty period]
- Coverage Details: [Insert coverage details]
- For complete warranty information, please download the full installation PDF.
Note: After installation, test the function by connecting a test light or properly wired trailer. Refer to the vehicle owner's manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for more information.