Product Details
- Brand: Reese Towpower
- Model: 44680 85343 20506 7012a 118551
- Includes: Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch, T-One T-Connector Custom Harness, Wiring Adapter, Trailer Brake Controller Installation Kit, Circuit Breaker
Compatibility Chart
Description
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Trailer Hitch w/ 7-Way RV Wiring For 08-12 Ford Escape 08-11 Mazda Tribute 05-11 Mercury Mariner Class 3 2" Receiver All Models Reese Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, and Mazda Tribute (Including Hybrid Models)
Part Numbers:
- 75751
- 87626
- 44680
Wiring Access Location:
- SUV1, SUV2
Tools Required:
- Wrenches: 10mm, 18mm, 22mm, 5/8”
- Other Tools: Pullwires (provided)
- Drill Bits: None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
For Vehicles with O.E.M. Class 2 Integrated Hitch/Bumper:
- Remove the existing bolts from inside the frame rails and return them to the owner.
- Relocate the existing electrical bracket by removing its screws and shifting it toward the driver’s side. Use the inside screw hole on the bracket and the outside weld nut (refer to Figure 3).
- Raise the hitch into position and install conical toothed washers and hex bolts into the existing weldnuts.
- Using the provided pullwire, feed the carriage bolts and blocks through the access slot at the end of the frame rail (Figure 1). Use the kink pullwire method to keep the block independent of the bolt (Figure 2).
- Attach conical toothed washers and hex nuts.
- Ensure that both hitches are not used simultaneously, as this may overload and damage the vehicle.
For Vehicles Without O.E.M. Class 2 Hitch/Bumper:
- Use the pullwire to feed the 7/16-14 carriage bolts and blocks into the forward hole on the passenger’s frame rail through the access hole (Figure 4).
- Repeat the process for the driver’s frame rail using the existing access hole.
- Raise the hitch into position onto the carriage bolts, then attach it with conical toothed washers and nuts. Hand-tighten fasteners.
- Using the pullwire, insert the remaining 7/16-14 carriage bolts and blocks (two per side) through the same access holes as before.
- Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque values.
Hardware List:
- Qty (6): Carriage Bolt – 7/16-14 x 1.75 GR5
- Qty (6): Block
- Qty (6): Conical Washer – 7/16”
- Qty (6): Hex Nut – 7/16-14
- Qty (4): Bolt – M12 x 1.75 x 45 CL10.9 or M14 x 2.0 x 45 CL10.9
- Qty (4): Conical Washer – 5/8”
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: 5,250 lbs (2,383 kg)
- Max Tongue Weight: 675 lbs (306 kg)
- Hitch Type: Weight Carrying (Ball Mount)
- Max Gross Trailer Weight: 4,500 lbs (2,043 kg)
- Max Tongue Weight: 675 lbs (306 kg)
Manufacturer Notes:
- Tighten all M12 CL10.9 fasteners to 75 lb-ft (102 N*m).
- Tighten all M14 CL10.9 fasteners to 115 lb-ft (156 N*m).
- Tighten all 7/16-14 GR5 fasteners to 50 lb-ft (68 N*m).
- 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.
- Do not use both the O.E.M. hitch and the installed hitch simultaneously to avoid overloading the vehicle.
Installation Instructions
Part Numbers:
- 75751
- 87626
- 44680
Wiring Access Location:
- SUV1, SUV2
Tools Required:
- Wrenches: 10mm, 18mm, 22mm, 5/8”
- Other Tools: Pullwires (provided)
- Drill Bits: None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
For Vehicles with O.E.M. Class 2 Integrated Hitch/Bumper:
- Remove the existing bolts from inside the frame rails and return them to the owner.
- Relocate the existing electrical bracket by removing its screws and shifting it toward the driver’s side. Use the inside screw hole on the bracket and the outside weld nut (refer to Figure 3).
- Raise the hitch into position and install conical toothed washers and hex bolts into the existing weldnuts.
- Using the provided pullwire, feed the carriage bolts and blocks through the access slot at the end of the frame rail (Figure 1). Use the kink pullwire method to keep the block independent of the bolt (Figure 2).
- Attach conical toothed washers and hex nuts.
- Ensure that both hitches are not used simultaneously, as this may overload and damage the vehicle.
For Vehicles Without O.E.M. Class 2 Hitch/Bumper:
- Use the pullwire to feed the 7/16-14 carriage bolts and blocks into the forward hole on the passenger’s frame rail through the access hole (Figure 4).
- Repeat the process for the driver’s frame rail using the existing access hole.
- Raise the hitch into position onto the carriage bolts, then attach it with conical toothed washers and nuts. Hand-tighten fasteners.
- Using the pullwire, insert the remaining 7/16-14 carriage bolts and blocks (two per side) through the same access holes as before.
- Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque values.
Hardware List:
- Qty (6): Carriage Bolt – 7/16-14 x 1.75 GR5
- Qty (6): Block
- Qty (6): Conical Washer – 7/16”
- Qty (6): Hex Nut – 7/16-14
- Qty (4): Bolt – M12 x 1.75 x 45 CL10.9 or M14 x 2.0 x 45 CL10.9
- Qty (4): Conical Washer – 5/8”
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: 5,250 lbs (2,383 kg)
- Max Tongue Weight: 675 lbs (306 kg)
- Hitch Type: Weight Carrying (Ball Mount)
- Max Gross Trailer Weight: 4,500 lbs (2,043 kg)
- Max Tongue Weight: 675 lbs (306 kg)
Manufacturer Notes:
- Tighten all M12 CL10.9 fasteners to 75 lb-ft (102 N·m).
- Tighten all M14 CL10.9 fasteners to 115 lb-ft (156 N·m).
- Tighten all 7/16-14 GR5 fasteners to 50 lb-ft (68 N·m).
- 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.
- Do not use both the O.E.M. hitch and the installed hitch simultaneously to avoid overloading the vehicle.
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 (Edge, Escapte, Econoline), Lincoln MKX, Mercury Mariner and Mazda Tribute
Part Numbers:
- 118551
Tools Required:
- Trim Panel Remover
- 10mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
- Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
- 1/4” Socket
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Cutters
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Test Probe
Step-by-Step Instructions:
For Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX:
-
Remove Rear Taillight Assemblies:
- Open the rear tailgate and remove two bolts securing each taillight.
- Carefully pry the taillight housings rearward, ensuring the alignment tabs are not broken.
-
Access the Vehicle’s Wiring:
- Pull the taillight wire harness out and unseat the grommet.
- Temporarily remove the floor coverings, cargo trays, plastic threshold cover, and side trim panels inside the cargo area.
-
Install Driver-Side T-Connector:
- Route the T-Connector with yellow and brown wires through the opening exposed in Step 2.
- Separate the vehicle’s connectors on the driver’s side, ensuring the mating surfaces are clean.
- Plug the T-Connector into the vehicle’s wiring harness.
-
Route the Passenger-Side Harness:
- Route the T-Connector with the green wire under the threshold cover to the passenger-side taillight housing.
- Repeat Step 3 for the passenger side using the T-Connector with the green wire.
-
Ground the White Wire:
- Locate a suitable grounding point on the driver’s side.
- Clean the area and secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.
-
Connect the Power Wire:
- Route the black 12-gauge power wire from the driver’s side taillight pocket to the T-Connector’s black box.
- Use the supplied yellow butt connector to attach the power wire to the black wire from the black box.
- Route the remaining power wire along the frame rail to the vehicle’s battery, avoiding hot or moving parts.
-
Battery Connection:
- Disconnect the vehicle’s negative battery cable.
- Cut the yellow fuse holder wire, attach the ring terminal, and secure it to the positive battery cable.
- Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black 12-gauge wire using a yellow butt connector.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable and install the 15-amp fuse into the fuse holder.
-
Secure the Harness:
- Use the provided cable ties to secure the T-Connector harness, ensuring wires do not pinch or rub.
- Mount the T-Connector black box in a clean, flat area using the provided double-sided tape.
-
Reassemble the Vehicle:
- Reinstall the taillight assemblies, wheel wells, and other components removed during installation.
-
Test the Installation:
- Test the T-Connector with a test light or trailer to verify functionality.
Specifications:
- Max. stop/turn light: 1 per side (2.1 amps)
- Max. tail lights: (5 amps)
Safety Notes:
- Do not exceed the towing manufacturer’s rating or the unit specifications.
- Overloading circuits can cause fires. Verify connections before use.
Manufacturer Notes:
- Store the 4-flat connector in the rear cargo area when not in use.
- Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for additional guidance.
Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Ford (Edge, Escape, Econoline), Lincoln MKX, Mercury Mariner, and Mazda Tribute
Part Numbers:
- 118551
Tools Required:
- Trim Panel Remover
- 10mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
- Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
- 1/4” Socket
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Cutters
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Test Probe
Step-by-Step Instructions:
For Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX:
-
Remove Rear Taillight Assemblies:
- Open the rear tailgate and remove two bolts securing each taillight.
- Carefully pry the taillight housings rearward, ensuring the alignment tabs are not broken.
-
Access the Vehicle’s Wiring:
- Pull the taillight wire harness out and unseat the grommet.
- Temporarily remove the floor coverings, cargo trays, plastic threshold cover, and side trim panels inside the cargo area.
-
Install Driver-Side T-Connector:
- Route the T-Connector with yellow and brown wires through the opening exposed in Step 2.
- Separate the vehicle’s connectors on the driver’s side, ensuring the mating surfaces are clean.
- Plug the T-Connector into the vehicle’s wiring harness.
-
Route the Passenger-Side Harness:
- Route the T-Connector with the green wire under the threshold cover to the passenger-side taillight housing.
- Repeat Step 3 for the passenger side using the T-Connector with the green wire.
-
Ground the White Wire:
- Locate a suitable grounding point on the driver’s side.
- Clean the area and secure the white wire using the provided eyelet and screw.
-
Connect the Power Wire:
- Route the black 12-gauge power wire from the driver’s side taillight pocket to the T-Connector’s black box.
- Use the supplied yellow butt connector to attach the power wire to the black wire from the black box.
- Route the remaining power wire along the frame rail to the vehicle’s battery, avoiding hot or moving parts.
-
Battery Connection:
- Disconnect the vehicle’s negative battery cable.
- Cut the yellow fuse holder wire, attach the ring terminal, and secure it to the positive battery cable.
- Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black 12-gauge wire using a yellow butt connector.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable and install the 15-amp fuse into the fuse holder.
-
Secure the Harness:
- Use the provided cable ties to secure the T-Connector harness, ensuring wires do not pinch or rub.
- Mount the T-Connector black box in a clean, flat area using the provided double-sided tape.
-
Reassemble the Vehicle:
- Reinstall the taillight assemblies, wheel wells, and other components removed during installation.
-
Test the Installation:
- Test the T-Connector with a test light or trailer to verify functionality.
Specifications:
- Max. stop/turn light: 1 per side (2.1 amps)
- Max. tail lights: (5 amps)
Safety Notes:
- Do not exceed the towing manufacturer’s rating or the unit specifications.
- Overloading circuits can cause fires. Verify connections before use.
Manufacturer Notes:
- Store the 4-flat connector in the rear cargo area when not in use.
- Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for additional guidance.
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.
Caution: Improper installation or circuit overloads can cause electrical failures. Always follow instructions carefully and test the installation thoroughly before use.
Installation Instructions for 4-Way to 7-Way Adapter and Brake Control Wiring
Tools Required:
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Drill with 3/32" Drill Bit
- 10mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Cutters
- Test Light or Multimeter
- Cable Ties
Part 1: Install the 4-Way to 7-Way Adapter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Mount the Adapter:
- Choose a suitable mounting point on the vehicle, typically near the hitch.
- Use the provided bracket and screws to secure the adapter.
-
Connect the 4-Flat Plug:
- Plug the 4-flat connector on the adapter into the existing 4-flat plug on the vehicle.
- This connection enables tail lights, left turn, and right turn signals.
-
Ground the Adapter:
- Locate a clean, solid grounding point near the adapter.
- Drill a 3/32" hole if necessary and secure the white ground wire from the adapter using the provided screw and eyelet.
-
Leave Additional Wires Disconnected:
- The following wires will remain disconnected until Part 2:
- Black Wire: Power from the battery.
- Blue Wire: Brake control output.
- Yellow Wire: Reverse light (optional; leave disconnected unless needed).
- The following wires will remain disconnected until Part 2:
-
Test Initial Connection:
- Use a test light or trailer to verify functionality of the 4-way connections (tail lights, turn signals).
Part 2: Install Brake Control Wiring
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Mount Circuit Breakers:
- Install two 30A circuit breakers on the firewall or another suitable location near the battery.
- Use self-tapping screws to mount them securely.
-
Route Power Wires:
- Connect the black 12-gauge wire from the 7-way adapter to the auxiliary side of one circuit breaker (this powers the 7-way socket).
- Run a heavy-gauge wire from the battery's positive terminal to the battery side of this circuit breaker, using a ring terminal.
- Run another heavy-gauge wire from the battery's positive terminal to the auxiliary side of the second circuit breaker (for the brake controller).
-
Install the Brake Controller:
- Mount the brake controller under the dash on a firm surface.
- Use the following connections:
- Red Wire: Connect to the cold side of the brake switch (active only when the brake pedal is pressed).
- Blue Wire: Connect to the blue wire on the 7-way adapter for trailer brakes.
- White Wire: Connect to a solid ground point on the vehicle body.
- Black Wire: Connect to the auxiliary side of the second 30A circuit breaker (provides power to the brake controller).
-
Optional: Connect Reverse Light Circuit:
- If the trailer has a reverse light circuit, connect the yellow wire from the 7-way adapter to the vehicle’s reverse light circuit.
-
Reconnect the Battery:
- Reattach the negative battery cable and ensure all connections are secure.
- Insert the fuses into both circuit breakers.
-
Secure All Wires:
- Use cable ties to secure all loose wires and prevent damage or rattling.
-
Test the System:
- Verify functionality of all circuits (running lights, turn signals, brake lights, and brake controller output).
- If applicable, test the reverse light circuit.
Notes:
- Most installations will only require connecting the black and blue wires from the 7-way adapter.
- Leave the yellow wire disconnected unless the trailer has a reverse light or surge brake lockout circuit.
- Always adhere to safety guidelines and verify all connections before use.
Warning: Incorrect wiring can cause damage to the vehicle or trailer. Test all connections carefully before use.
Installation Instructions for 4-Way to 7-Way Adapter and Brake Control Wiring
Tools Required:
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Drill with 3/32" Drill Bit
- 10mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Cutters
- Test Light or Multimeter
- Cable Ties
Part 1: Install the 4-Way to 7-Way Adapter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Mount the Adapter:
- Choose a suitable mounting point on the vehicle, typically near the hitch.
- Use the provided bracket and screws to secure the adapter.
-
Connect the 4-Flat Plug:
- Plug the 4-flat connector on the adapter into the existing 4-flat plug on the vehicle.
- This connection enables tail lights, left turn, and right turn signals.
-
Ground the Adapter:
- Locate a clean, solid grounding point near the adapter.
- Drill a 3/32" hole if necessary and secure the white ground wire from the adapter using the provided screw and eyelet.
-
Leave Additional Wires Disconnected:
- The following wires will remain disconnected until Part 2:
- Black Wire: Power from the battery.
- Blue Wire: Brake control output.
- Yellow Wire: Reverse light (optional; leave disconnected unless needed).
- The following wires will remain disconnected until Part 2:
-
Test Initial Connection:
- Use a test light or trailer to verify functionality of the 4-way connections (tail lights, turn signals).
Part 2: Install Brake Control Wiring
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Mount Circuit Breakers:
- Install two 30A circuit breakers on the firewall or another suitable location near the battery.
- Use self-tapping screws to mount them securely.
-
Route Power Wires:
- Connect the black 12-gauge wire from the 7-way adapter to the auxiliary side of one circuit breaker (this powers the 7-way socket).
- Run a heavy-gauge wire from the battery's positive terminal to the battery side of this circuit breaker, using a ring terminal.
- Run another heavy-gauge wire from the battery's positive terminal to the auxiliary side of the second circuit breaker (for the brake controller).
-
Install the Brake Controller:
- Mount the brake controller under the dash on a firm surface.
- Use the following connections:
- Red Wire: Connect to the cold side of the brake switch (active only when the brake pedal is pressed).
- Blue Wire: Connect to the blue wire on the 7-way adapter for trailer brakes.
- White Wire: Connect to a solid ground point on the vehicle body.
- Black Wire: Connect to the auxiliary side of the second 30A circuit breaker (provides power to the brake controller).
-
Optional: Connect Reverse Light Circuit:
- If the trailer has a reverse light circuit, connect the yellow wire from the 7-way adapter to the vehicle’s reverse light circuit.
-
Reconnect the Battery:
- Reattach the negative battery cable and ensure all connections are secure.
- Insert the fuses into both circuit breakers.
-
Secure All Wires:
- Use cable ties to secure all loose wires and prevent damage or rattling.
-
Test the System:
- Verify functionality of all circuits (running lights, turn signals, brake lights, and brake controller output).
- If applicable, test the reverse light circuit.
Notes:
- Most installations will only require connecting the black and blue wires from the 7-way adapter.
- Leave the yellow wire disconnected unless the trailer has a reverse light or surge brake lockout circuit.
- Always adhere to safety guidelines and verify all connections before use.
Warning: Incorrect wiring can cause damage to the vehicle or trailer. Test all connections carefully before use.
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.
Warranty Information:
For complete warranty instructions, 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.