Installation Instructions for Ford Escape

Part Numbers:

• 75782
• 87641
• 44694

Wiring Access Location:

• SUV1, SUV2

Tools Required:

• Pull wire (provided)
• Tin snips
• File or die grinder
• Soapy water or lubricant
• Wrenches: 10mm, 13mm, 11/16”
• Drill Bits: None

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Lower the Exhaust:

   • Remove the two fasteners from the exhaust hanger brackets on each side of the frame.
   • Remove the forward rubber isolator hanger for additional space (see Figure 4).
   • Apply lubricant or soapy water to the metal hanger rod and rubber isolator for easier removal.

2. Trim Heat Shields:

   • Loosen and trim the heat shields as shown in Figures 2 and 3.
   • On the driver’s side, remove the forward fastener and mark the area to be trimmed. Re-secure the heat shield using the removed fastener after trimming.

3. Enlarge Access Hole:

   • Enlarge the frame’s access hole using a file or grinder to allow carriage bolt insertion.

4. Install Hardware into Frame Rails:

   • Use the pull wire to feed the fasteners through the frame’s access hole. Attach fasteners and pull them into position, starting with the rear side of the frame rail (see Figures 5 and 6).
   • Leave the pull wires attached.

5. Position Hitch:

   • Slide the hitch into position, starting with the driver’s side, moving over the exhaust, and aligning it with the passenger side.
   • Feed pull wires through the slots as needed.

6. Attach Fasteners:

   • Secure the rear horizontal 7/16 fasteners using flat washers, lock washers, and hex nuts.
   • Attach the M8-1.25 x 40mm bolts and 5/16” flat washers through the bracket tab at the rear of the hitch.

7. Tighten Fasteners:

   • Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque values:
     • M8 CL8 fasteners: 18 lb-ft (23 N*m)
     • M8 CL10.9 fasteners: 27 lb-ft (37 N*m)
     • 7/16 GR5 fasteners: 50 lb-ft (68 N*m)

8. Reattach Exhaust:

   • Reinstall the exhaust hanger brackets and the rubber isolator hanger.

Hardware List:

• Qty (6): Carriage Bolt – 7/16-14 x 1.50 GR5
• Qty (4): Spacer – 1/4” x 7/8” x 3”
• Qty (2): Spacer – 3/16” x 1” x 2”
• Qty (4): Conical Washer – 7/16”
• Qty (6): Hex Nut – 7/16-14
• Qty (2): Flat Washer – 7/16”
• Qty (4): Hex Bolt – M8-1.25 x 30mm CL8.8
• Qty (2): Hex Bolt – M8-1.25 x 40mm CL10.9
• Qty (12): Flat Washer – 5/16”
• Qty (4): Lock Washer – 5/16”

Safety Notes:

• Check the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened.
• If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or body panels to prevent water and exhaust fumes from entering.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
• Observe safety precautions when working beneath the vehicle and wear eye protection.
• Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.

Specifications:

• Hitch Type: Weight Distributing
  • Max Gross Trailer Weight: 5,000 lbs (2,270 kg)
  • Max Tongue Weight: 525 lbs (239 kg)
• Hitch Type: Weight Carrying (Ball Mount)
  • Max Gross Trailer Weight: 3,500 lbs (1,589 kg)
  • Max Tongue Weight: 525 lbs (239 kg)

Manufacturer Notes:

• Complies with safety specifications and requirements for connecting devices and towing systems of the state of New York, V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5, and SAE J684.

Installation Instructions

Part Numbers:

• 75782
• 87641
• 44694

Wiring Access Location:

• SUV1, SUV2

Tools Required:

• Pull wire (provided)
• Tin snips
• File or die grinder
• Soapy water or lubricant
• Wrenches: 10mm, 13mm, 11/16”
• Drill Bits: None

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Lower the Exhaust:

   • Remove the two fasteners from the exhaust hanger brackets on each side of the frame.
   • Remove the forward rubber isolator hanger for additional space (see Figure 4).
   • Apply lubricant or soapy water to the metal hanger rod and rubber isolator for easier removal.

2. Trim Heat Shields:

   • Loosen and trim the heat shields as shown in Figures 2 and 3.
   • On the driver’s side, remove the forward fastener and mark the area to be trimmed. Re-secure the heat shield using the removed fastener after trimming.

3. Enlarge Access Hole:

   • Enlarge the frame’s access hole using a file or grinder to allow carriage bolt insertion.

4. Install Hardware into Frame Rails:

   • Use the pull wire to feed the fasteners through the frame’s access hole. Attach fasteners and pull them into position, starting with the rear side of the frame rail (see Figures 5 and 6).
   • Leave the pull wires attached.

5. Position Hitch:

   • Slide the hitch into position, starting with the driver’s side, moving over the exhaust, and aligning it with the passenger side.
   • Feed pull wires through the slots as needed.

6. Attach Fasteners:

   • Secure the rear horizontal 7/16 fasteners using flat washers, lock washers, and hex nuts.
   • Attach the M8-1.25 x 40mm bolts and 5/16” flat washers through the bracket tab at the rear of the hitch.

7. Tighten Fasteners:

   • Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque values:
     • M8 CL8 fasteners: 18 lb-ft (23 N·m)
     • M8 CL10.9 fasteners: 27 lb-ft (37 N·m)
     • 7/16 GR5 fasteners: 50 lb-ft (68 N·m)

8. Reattach Exhaust:

   • Reinstall the exhaust hanger brackets and the rubber isolator hanger.

Hardware List:

• Qty (6): Carriage Bolt – 7/16-14 x 1.50 GR5
• Qty (4): Spacer – 1/4” x 7/8” x 3”
• Qty (2): Spacer – 3/16” x 1” x 2”
• Qty (4): Conical Washer – 7/16”
• Qty (6): Hex Nut – 7/16-14
• Qty (2): Flat Washer – 7/16”
• Qty (4): Hex Bolt – M8-1.25 x 30mm CL8.8
• Qty (2): Hex Bolt – M8-1.25 x 40mm CL10.9
• Qty (12): Flat Washer – 5/16”
• Qty (4): Lock Washer – 5/16”

Safety Notes:

• Check the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened.
• If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or body panels to prevent water and exhaust fumes from entering.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
• Observe safety precautions when working beneath the vehicle and wear eye protection.
• Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.

Specifications:

• Hitch Type: Weight Distributing
  • Max Gross Trailer Weight: 5,000 lbs (2,270 kg)
  • Max Tongue Weight: 525 lbs (239 kg)
• Hitch Type: Weight Carrying (Ball Mount)
  • Max Gross Trailer Weight: 3,500 lbs (1,589 kg)
  • Max Tongue Weight: 525 lbs (239 kg)

Manufacturer Notes:

• Complies with safety specifications and requirements for connecting devices and towing systems of the state of New York, V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5, and SAE J684.

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:

For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Ford Escape

Part Numbers:

• 118566

Tools Required:

• Trim Panel Remover
• 8mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
• Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
• 1/4” Socket
• Wire Crimpers
• Wire Cutters
• Test Probe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove the Taillight Assemblies:

   • Open the tailgate and remove the vehicle’s taillight assemblies by unscrewing the four 8mm hex head bolts on each side.
   • Carefully pry the housings away from the vehicle, avoiding damage to the alignment tabs.

2. Disconnect the Wiring Harness:

   • Disconnect the vehicle wiring harness from both taillight sockets.

3. Install the Driver-Side T-Connector:

   • On the driver’s side, route the T-Connector end with the yellow wires up between the bumper and vehicle body into the taillight pocket.
   • Plug the T-Connector with the yellow wire in between the driver’s side taillight socket and the vehicle wiring harness.

4. Route and Connect the Passenger-Side T-Connector:

   • Route the T-Connector with the green wire to the passenger side.
   • Route the 4-flat connector underneath the bumper to the passenger side, ensuring it avoids hot pipes, heat shields, or fuel tanks.
   • Route the T-Connector end with the green wire up through the passenger-side opening and connect it.

5. Ground the White Wire:

   • Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector.
   • Clean the area of dirt and rustproofing.
   • Drill a 3/32” hole and secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.

   Caution:

   • Verify what is behind any surface before drilling to avoid damage or injury.

6. Prepare the Power Connection:

   • Disconnect the vehicle’s negative (-) battery cable.
   • Remove the fuse from the yellow fuse holder.
   • Attach the ring terminal to the positive (+) battery cable using the provided connector.
   • Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black 12-gauge wire using the provided yellow butt connector.

7. Route the Black Power Wire:

   • Starting at the front of the vehicle, route the black wire along the frame rail to the rear driver’s side.
   • Ensure the wire avoids hot pipes, heat shields, or other damage points.

8. Connect the Black Power Wire:

   • Route the black 12-gauge wire to the rear driver’s side.
   • Connect the wire to the black wire from the T-Connector black box using the supplied yellow butt connector.

9. Reconnect the Battery:

   • Reconnect the negative (-) battery cable.
   • Insert the 15-amp fuse into the fuse holder.

10. Mount the Black Box:

    • Locate a flat surface on the driver’s side and mount the T-Connector’s black box using the double-sided tape.
    • Ensure the epoxy side of the module is pointed toward the ground to prevent water buildup.

11. Secure the Wiring:

    • Secure the remainder of the T-Connector harness under the bumper using the provided cable ties, avoiding areas that could pinch or cut the wires.

12. Reinstall the Taillight Assemblies:

    • Reinstall the taillight housing assemblies, positioning the wiring harness between the housing and the vehicle body.

13. Mount the 4-Flat Connector:

    • Mount the 4-flat connector in a suitable location under the vehicle.

    Note:

    • A bracket is not included for mounting the 4-flat connector.

Specifications:

• Max. stop/turn light: 2.1 amps
• Max. tail lights: 5.6 amps

Safety Notes:

• Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed stated product ratings.
• Always wear safety glasses and follow safety precautions during installation.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Read the vehicle owner’s manual for additional details.
• Store instructions for future reference.

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Ford Escape

Part Numbers:

• 118566

Tools Required:

• Trim Panel Remover
• 8mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
• Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
• 1/4” Socket
• Wire Crimpers
• Wire Cutters
• Test Probe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove the Taillight Assemblies:

   • Open the tailgate and remove the vehicle’s taillight assemblies by unscrewing the four 8mm hex head bolts on each side.
   • Carefully pry the housings away from the vehicle, avoiding damage to the alignment tabs.

2. Disconnect the Wiring Harness:

   • Disconnect the vehicle wiring harness from both taillight sockets.

3. Install the Driver-Side T-Connector:

   • On the driver’s side, route the T-Connector end with the yellow wires up between the bumper and vehicle body into the taillight pocket.
   • Plug the T-Connector with the yellow wire in between the driver’s side taillight socket and the vehicle wiring harness.

4. Route and Connect the Passenger-Side T-Connector:

   • Route the T-Connector with the green wire to the passenger side.
   • Route the 4-flat connector underneath the bumper to the passenger side, ensuring it avoids hot pipes, heat shields, or fuel tanks.
   • Route the T-Connector end with the green wire up through the passenger-side opening and connect it.

5. Ground the White Wire:

   • Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector.
   • Clean the area of dirt and rustproofing.
   • Drill a 3/32” hole and secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.

   Caution:

   • Verify what is behind any surface before drilling to avoid damage or injury.

6. Prepare the Power Connection:

   • Disconnect the vehicle’s negative (-) battery cable.
   • Remove the fuse from the yellow fuse holder.
   • Attach the ring terminal to the positive (+) battery cable using the provided connector.
   • Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black 12-gauge wire using the provided yellow butt connector.

7. Route the Black Power Wire:

   • Starting at the front of the vehicle, route the black wire along the frame rail to the rear driver’s side.
   • Ensure the wire avoids hot pipes, heat shields, or other damage points.

8. Connect the Black Power Wire:

   • Route the black 12-gauge wire to the rear driver’s side.
   • Connect the wire to the black wire from the T-Connector black box using the supplied yellow butt connector.

9. Reconnect the Battery:

   • Reconnect the negative (-) battery cable.
   • Insert the 15-amp fuse into the fuse holder.

10. Mount the Black Box:

    • Locate a flat surface on the driver’s side and mount the T-Connector’s black box using the double-sided tape.
    • Ensure the epoxy side of the module is pointed toward the ground to prevent water buildup.

11. Secure the Wiring:

    • Secure the remainder of the T-Connector harness under the bumper using the provided cable ties, avoiding areas that could pinch or cut the wires.

12. Reinstall the Taillight Assemblies:

    • Reinstall the taillight housing assemblies, positioning the wiring harness between the housing and the vehicle body.

13. Mount the 4-Flat Connector:

    • Mount the 4-flat connector in a suitable location under the vehicle.

    Note:

    • A bracket is not included for mounting the 4-flat connector.

Specifications:

• Max. stop/turn light: 2.1 amps
• Max. tail lights: 5.6 amps

Safety Notes:

• Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed stated product ratings.
• Always wear safety glasses and follow safety precautions during installation.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Read the vehicle owner’s manual for additional details.
• Store instructions for future reference.

Important Notices:

• Installation Summary: 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.