Product Details
- Brand: Curt
- Model: 13438 56093-CH1262
- Includes: Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch, Custom Wiring
Compatibility Chart
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For 2020-2023 Ford Explorer Trailer Hitch + Wiring 4 Pin Fits All Models Curt 13438 56093 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 Ford Taurus and Ford Explorer
Part Number:
- 56093
Tools Required:
- Ratchet
- 8mm socket
- Panel trim removal tool
- Wire crimper
- Paint marker
- Socket extension
- Cutting tool
- Heat gun
- Wire stripper
- Electrical tape
Electrical Ratings:
- Signal Circuits: 3.0 amps per side
- Tail/Running Circuits: 6.0 amps total
Wiring Access Location:
- Passenger Cars (P):
- P3: Behind driver-side taillight housing, inside trunk
- P4: Behind passenger-side taillight housing, inside trunk
- SUVs and Vans (S):
- S3: Behind driver-side rear access panel
- S4: Behind passenger-side rear access panel
Ford Taurus Instructions:
-
Disconnect the Battery:
- Locate the vehicle's battery in the engine compartment on the driver side.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure it away from the battery during installation.
-
Prepare the Trunk:
- Open the trunk, remove floor coverings, and expose the spare tire.
- Use a panel trim removal tool to remove the scuff panel by pulling outward and upward to release alignment tabs.
-
Access the Taillight Connectors:
- Remove three plastic fasteners securing the felt trunk liner.
- Pull back the felt liner on the driver side to expose the taillight wiring harness connectors.
- Separate the connectors and insert the T-connector end with the yellow wire between them, ensuring the locking tabs engage.
-
Ground the White Wire:
- Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector, such as an existing screw or drill a 3/32" pilot hole.
- Secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.
-
Route the Green Wire:
- Route the green wire along the back of the vehicle under the scuff plate to the passenger side.
- Repeat step 3 for the passenger-side taillight with the green wire.
-
Mount the Converter Box:
- Adhere the black converter box to the vehicle's frame using the provided double-sided tape.
-
Route the Black Power Wire:
- Route the black power wire from the vehicle battery as described in the "Powered Converter Lead Instruction Sheet."
-
Reassemble and Test:
- Reinstall all removed components and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Test the system with a test light or a properly wired trailer.
Ford Explorer Instructions:
For Explorer (10th VIN B, C, D):
-
Disconnect the Battery:
- Locate the battery in the engine compartment on the driver side.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure it away from the battery during installation.
-
Remove the Rear Interior Panels:
- Open the tailgate and fold down the third-row seats (if equipped).
- Use a trim panel removal tool to remove the scuff panel and side panels to access the taillight housings.
-
Access the Taillight Connectors:
- Remove the rear trim and pull back to expose the taillight wiring harness.
- Insert the T-connector end with the yellow wire between the driver-side connectors.
-
Ground the White Wire:
- Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector, such as an existing screw or drill a 3/32" pilot hole.
- Secure the white wire using the provided ring terminal and screw.
-
Route the Green Wire:
- Route the green wire along the rear trim to the passenger side.
- Repeat step 3 for the passenger-side taillight using the green wire.
-
Mount the Converter Box:
- Adhere the black converter box to the vehicle's frame using the provided double-sided tape.
-
Route the Black Power Wire:
- Route the black power wire from the vehicle battery as described in the Powered Converter Lead Instruction Sheet.
-
Reassemble and Test:
- Secure all loose wires with the provided cable ties and install the dust cover.
- Reconnect the battery and test for functionality.
For Explorer (10th VIN L):
-
Access Rear Panels and Taillights:
- Open the rear hatch and use a panel trim removal tool to access the interior side panels.
- Pull back the panels and locate the taillight connectors.
-
Install the T-Connector:
- Follow the same steps as VIN
B, C, D
to install the T-connector and secure the wiring harness.
- Follow the same steps as VIN
-
Route Wires and Secure:
- Route all wires securely to prevent damage, following the same procedure as VIN
B, C, D
. - Test the wiring and ensure proper grounding.
- Route all wires securely to prevent damage, following the same procedure as VIN
Safety Notes:
- Warning: Verify no hidden components exist before drilling to avoid damage or injury.
- Ensure all connections are secure, and do not exceed the product or vehicle lamp load ratings.
- The battery connection must be fuse-protected (10-amp max) to prevent overheating, fire, or loss of warranty.
Installation Instructions for Passenger Cars and SUVs
Part Number:
- 56093
Tools Required:
- Ratchet
- 8mm socket
- Panel trim removal tool
- Wire crimper
- Paint marker
- Socket extension
- Cutting tool
- Heat gun
- Wire stripper
- Electrical tape
Electrical Ratings:
- Signal Circuits: 3.0 amps per side
- Tail/Running Circuits: 6.0 amps total
Wiring Access Location:
- Passenger Cars (P):
- P3: Behind driver-side taillight housing, inside trunk
- P4: Behind passenger-side taillight housing, inside trunk
- SUVs and Vans (S):
- S3: Behind driver-side rear access panel
- S4: Behind passenger-side rear access panel
Passenger Car Instructions:
-
Disconnect the Battery:
- Locate the vehicle's battery in the engine compartment on the driver side.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure it away from the battery during installation.
-
Prepare the Trunk:
- Open the trunk, remove floor coverings, and expose the spare tire.
- Use a panel trim removal tool to remove the scuff panel by pulling outward and upward to release alignment tabs.
-
Access the Taillight Connectors:
- Remove three plastic fasteners securing the felt trunk liner.
- Pull back the felt liner on the driver side to expose the taillight wiring harness connectors.
- Separate the connectors and insert the T-connector end with the yellow wire between them, ensuring the locking tabs engage.
-
Ground the White Wire:
- Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector, such as an existing screw or drill a 3/32" pilot hole.
- Secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.
-
Route the Green Wire:
- Route the green wire along the back of the vehicle under the scuff plate to the passenger side.
- Repeat step 3 for the passenger-side taillight with the green wire.
-
Mount the Converter Box:
- Adhere the black converter box to the vehicle's frame using the provided double-sided tape.
-
Route the Black Power Wire:
- Route the black power wire from the vehicle battery as described in the "Powered Converter Lead Instruction Sheet."
-
Reassemble and Test:
- Reinstall all removed components and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Test the system with a test light or a properly wired trailer.
SUV Instructions:
For VIN B, C, D:
-
Disconnect the Battery:
- Locate the battery in the engine compartment on the driver side.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure it away from the battery during installation.
-
Remove the Rear Interior Panels:
- Open the tailgate and fold down the third-row seats (if equipped).
- Use a trim panel removal tool to remove the scuff panel and side panels to access the taillight housings.
-
Access the Taillight Connectors:
- Remove the rear trim and pull back to expose the taillight wiring harness.
- Insert the T-connector end with the yellow wire between the driver-side connectors.
-
Ground the White Wire:
- Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector, such as an existing screw or drill a 3/32" pilot hole.
- Secure the white wire using the provided ring terminal and screw.
-
Route the Green Wire:
- Route the green wire along the rear trim to the passenger side.
- Repeat step 3 for the passenger-side taillight using the green wire.
-
Mount the Converter Box:
- Adhere the black converter box to the vehicle's frame using the provided double-sided tape.
-
Route the Black Power Wire:
- Route the black power wire from the vehicle battery as described in the Powered Converter Lead Instruction Sheet.
-
Reassemble and Test:
- Secure all loose wires with the provided cable ties and install the dust cover.
- Reconnect the battery and test for functionality.
For VIN L:
-
Access Rear Panels and Taillights:
- Open the rear hatch and use a panel trim removal tool to access the interior side panels.
- Pull back the panels and locate the taillight connectors.
-
Install the T-Connector:
- Follow the same steps as VIN
B, C, D
to install the T-connector and secure the wiring harness.
- Follow the same steps as VIN
-
Route Wires and Secure:
- Route all wires securely to prevent damage, following the same procedure as VIN
B, C, D
. - Test the wiring and ensure proper grounding.
- Route all wires securely to prevent damage, following the same procedure as VIN
Safety Notes:
- Warning: Verify no hidden components exist before drilling to avoid damage or injury.
- Ensure all connections are secure, and do not exceed the product or vehicle lamp load ratings.
- The battery connection must be fuse-protected (10-amp max) to prevent overheating, fire, or loss of warranty.
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:
- For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.