Product Details
- Brand: Reese
- Model: 06168 118590
- Includes: Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch, T-One T-Connector Custom Harness
Compatibility Chart
Description
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Reese Trailer Tow Hitch For 14-20 Chevy Impala Exc Impala Limited w/ Plug & Play Wiring Kit Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Impala, Buick LaCrosse, Buick Regal, and Cadillac XTS
Part Numbers:
- 36538
- 90242
- 06168
Wiring Access Location:
- PC3, PC4
Tools Required:
- Wrenches: 10mm, 13mm, 9/16", 3/4"
- Drill Bits: 1/2" (to enlarge holes on Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS)
- Tape Measure (for Impala fascia trimming)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Prepare Hitch Components:
- Unbolt the center section of the hitch, brackets "A" and "B," and keep the fasteners for installation.
-
Install Forward Brackets:
- On the passenger side, remove the existing inner tailpipe hanger 8mm bolt and replace it with the supplied M8 x 55mm bolt and a 5/16" flat washer.
- Sandwich two 1/2" flat washers between the end panel and the hitch bracket. Hand tighten only.
Special Instructions for Models:
- For Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS: Enlarge the rearward hole on the suspension mount to accept a 1/2" bolt.
- Use bracket "B" with the wedge spacer for vehicles before mid-year 2013. Tape the spacer into place for easier installation.
- Use bracket "B" on Buick LaCrosse and bracket "A" on all other models.
-
Attach Rearward Section of Hitch:
- Raise the rearward section of the hitch into place over the 8mm bolts.
- Secure with 3/8" conical washers and M8 hex nuts.
-
Install Carriage Bolts:
- Insert four (4) 1/2"-13 x 1.50" carriage bolts into the hitch's support plate.
- Use the forward hole for Impala and Cadillac models and the rearward hole for Malibu, Regal, and LaCrosse models.
-
Raise Center Section of Hitch:
- Align the center section of the hitch with the carriage bolts on the support plate.
- Attach 1/2" conical washers and hex nuts to the bolts and hand tighten.
-
Secure Forward Section:
- Attach the forward end of the center section to the forward bracket with a 1/2"-13 x 2.00" bolt, 1/2" conical washer, and hex nut.
- Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque.
Torque Specifications:
- Tighten all M8-1.25 CL10.9 fasteners to 25 lb-ft (34 N*m).
- Tighten all 1/2"-13 GR5 fasteners to 75 lb-ft (102 N*m).
- Tighten 1/2"-13 GR5 bolts into handle nut fasteners to 50 lb-ft (68 N*m).
Hardware List:
- (2) Hex Bolts, M8 x 1.25 x 55mm CL10.9
- (4) Carriage Bolts, 1/2"-13 x 1.50" GR5
- (1) Carriage Bolt, 1/2"-13 x 2.00" GR5
- (7) Conical Washers, 1/2"
- (2) Conical Washers, 3/8"
- (7) Hex Nuts, 1/2"-13
- (2) Hex Nuts, M8 x 1.25
- (4) Flat Washers, 1/2"
- (2) Flat Washers, 5/16"
- (1) Handle Nut, 1/2"-13
- (1) Spacer Wedge
Safety Notes:
- Frequently check the hitch to ensure all fasteners and the ball are securely tightened.
- If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent water or exhaust fumes from entering.
- Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
- Observe safety precautions when working beneath a vehicle and wear eye protection.
- Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.
Specifications:
- Max Gross Trailer Weight: 3,500 lb (1,589 kg)
- Max Tongue Weight: 300 lb (136 kg)
Additional Notes:
- Drawbar Kit: 36061 (sold separately)
- Fastener Kit: 36538F
- This product complies with V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 and SAE J684 safety standards.
Installation Instructions for Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Impala, Buick LaCrosse, Buick Regal, and Cadillac XTS
Part Numbers:
- 36538
- 90242
- 06168
Wiring Access Location:
- PC3, PC4
Tools Required:
- Wrenches: 10mm, 13mm, 9/16", 3/4"
- Drill Bits: 1/2" (to enlarge holes on Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS)
- Tape Measure (for Impala fascia trimming)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Prepare Hitch Components:
- Unbolt the center section of the hitch, brackets "A" and "B," and keep the fasteners for installation.
-
Install Forward Brackets:
- On the passenger side, remove the existing inner tailpipe hanger 8mm bolt and replace it with the supplied M8 x 55mm bolt and a 5/16" flat washer.
- Sandwich two 1/2" flat washers between the end panel and the hitch bracket. Hand tighten only.
Special Instructions for Models:
- For Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS: Enlarge the rearward hole on the suspension mount to accept a 1/2" bolt.
- Use bracket "B" with the wedge spacer for vehicles before mid-year 2013. Tape the spacer into place for easier installation.
- Use bracket "B" on Buick LaCrosse and bracket "A" on all other models.
-
Attach Rearward Section of Hitch:
- Raise the rearward section of the hitch into place over the 8mm bolts.
- Secure with 3/8" conical washers and M8 hex nuts.
-
Install Carriage Bolts:
- Insert four (4) 1/2"-13 x 1.50" carriage bolts into the hitch's support plate.
- Use the forward hole for Impala and Cadillac models and the rearward hole for Malibu, Regal, and LaCrosse models.
-
Raise Center Section of Hitch:
- Align the center section of the hitch with the carriage bolts on the support plate.
- Attach 1/2" conical washers and hex nuts to the bolts and hand tighten.
-
Secure Forward Section:
- Attach the forward end of the center section to the forward bracket with a 1/2"-13 x 2.00" bolt, 1/2" conical washer, and hex nut.
- Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque.
Torque Specifications:
- Tighten all M8-1.25 CL10.9 fasteners to 25 lb-ft (34 N*m).
- Tighten all 1/2"-13 GR5 fasteners to 75 lb-ft (102 N*m).
- Tighten 1/2"-13 GR5 bolts into handle nut fasteners to 50 lb-ft (68 N*m).
Hardware List:
- (2) Hex Bolts, M8 x 1.25 x 55mm CL10.9
- (4) Carriage Bolts, 1/2"-13 x 1.50" GR5
- (1) Carriage Bolt, 1/2"-13 x 2.00" GR5
- (7) Conical Washers, 1/2"
- (2) Conical Washers, 3/8"
- (7) Hex Nuts, 1/2"-13
- (2) Hex Nuts, M8 x 1.25
- (4) Flat Washers, 1/2"
- (2) Flat Washers, 5/16"
- (1) Handle Nut, 1/2"-13
- (1) Spacer Wedge
Safety Notes:
- Frequently check the hitch to ensure all fasteners and the ball are securely tightened.
- If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent water or exhaust fumes from entering.
- Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
- Observe safety precautions when working beneath a vehicle and wear eye protection.
- Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.
Specifications:
- Max Gross Trailer Weight: 3,500 lb (1,589 kg)
- Max Tongue Weight: 300 lb (136 kg)
Additional Notes:
- Drawbar Kit: 36061 (sold separately)
- Fastener Kit: 36538F
- This product complies with V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 and SAE J684 safety standards.
Warranty Information:
For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.
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.
Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Impala
Part Numbers:
- 118590
Tools Required:
- Trim Panel Remover
- 10mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
- Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Cutters
- Test Probe
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Open the Trunk:
- Remove the threshold panel.
- Partially remove the corner felt trunk liner on both sides to expose the vehicle’s taillight wiring harness.
-
Locate the Taillight Wiring Harness:
- On the driver’s side, locate the taillight wiring harness.
- Disconnect the connectors carefully, ensuring not to damage the locking tabs.
- Clean the connectors and ensure they match the T-Connector ends.
-
Install the Driver-Side T-Connector:
- Attach the T-Connector containing the yellow and brown wires to the driver-side wiring connectors.
- Ensure connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
-
Route the Passenger-Side T-Connector:
- Route the T-Connector containing the green wire below the threshold cover to the passenger’s side taillight housing.
- Repeat Steps 2 and 3 for the passenger side.
-
Mount the Black Box:
- On the driver’s side, locate a flat, out-of-the-way surface and mount the black converter box using the provided double-sided tape.
-
Ground the White Wire:
- Locate a suitable grounding point near the connectors.
- 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.
-
Connect the Power Wire:
- Locate the red 12-gauge power wire from the T-Connector box.
- Attach the provided black 12-gauge wire using the supplied yellow butt connector.
- Route the black wire through a grommet and along the exterior frame to the engine compartment, avoiding areas that may pinch or damage the wire.
-
Connect to the Vehicle Battery:
- Disconnect the vehicle’s negative (-) battery cable.
- Remove the fuse from the yellow fuse holder.
- Attach the ring terminal to the vehicle’s positive (+) battery cable and secure it.
- Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black wire using the provided yellow butt connector.
- Insert the 10-amp fuse into the fuse holder.
-
Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the negative (-) battery cable.
Warning:
- Test the system with a test light or trailer to ensure all connections are functional.
-
Secure the Wiring:
- Use the provided cable ties to secure the T-Connector harness, avoiding areas that could pinch, cut, or melt the wires.
-
Reassemble the Vehicle:
- Replace the plastic trim panels, threshold, storage covers, floor covering, and any other items removed during installation.
-
Store the 4-Flat Connector:
- Store the 4-flat connector in the side storage compartment when not in use.
Specifications:
- Max. stop/turn light: 1 per side (2.1 amps)
- Max. tail lights: 5.6 amps
Safety Notes:
- Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed the towing manufacturer’s ratings or the specified circuit ratings.
- Always wear safety glasses and follow safety precautions during installation.
Manufacturer Notes:
- Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for additional information.
- Store these instructions for future reference.
Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Impala
Part Numbers:
- 118590
Tools Required:
- Trim Panel Remover
- 10mm Socket & Ratchet or Wrench
- Drill (3/32” Drill Bit)
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Cutters
- Test Probe
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Open the Trunk:
- Remove the threshold panel.
- Partially remove the corner felt trunk liner on both sides to expose the vehicle’s taillight wiring harness.
-
Locate the Taillight Wiring Harness:
- On the driver’s side, locate the taillight wiring harness.
- Disconnect the connectors carefully, ensuring not to damage the locking tabs.
- Clean the connectors and ensure they match the T-Connector ends.
-
Install the Driver-Side T-Connector:
- Attach the T-Connector containing the yellow and brown wires to the driver-side wiring connectors.
- Ensure connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
-
Route the Passenger-Side T-Connector:
- Route the T-Connector containing the green wire below the threshold cover to the passenger’s side taillight housing.
- Repeat Steps 2 and 3 for the passenger side.
-
Mount the Black Box:
- On the driver’s side, locate a flat, out-of-the-way surface and mount the black converter box using the provided double-sided tape.
-
Ground the White Wire:
- Locate a suitable grounding point near the connectors.
- 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.
-
Connect the Power Wire:
- Locate the red 12-gauge power wire from the T-Connector box.
- Attach the provided black 12-gauge wire using the supplied yellow butt connector.
- Route the black wire through a grommet and along the exterior frame to the engine compartment, avoiding areas that may pinch or damage the wire.
-
Connect to the Vehicle Battery:
- Disconnect the vehicle’s negative (-) battery cable.
- Remove the fuse from the yellow fuse holder.
- Attach the ring terminal to the vehicle’s positive (+) battery cable and secure it.
- Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black wire using the provided yellow butt connector.
- Insert the 10-amp fuse into the fuse holder.
-
Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the negative (-) battery cable.
Warning:
- Test the system with a test light or trailer to ensure all connections are functional.
-
Secure the Wiring:
- Use the provided cable ties to secure the T-Connector harness, avoiding areas that could pinch, cut, or melt the wires.
-
Reassemble the Vehicle:
- Replace the plastic trim panels, threshold, storage covers, floor covering, and any other items removed during installation.
-
Store the 4-Flat Connector:
- Store the 4-flat connector in the side storage compartment when not in use.
Specifications:
- Max. stop/turn light: 1 per side (2.1 amps)
- Max. tail lights: 5.6 amps
Safety Notes:
- Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed the towing manufacturer’s ratings or the specified circuit ratings.
- Always wear safety glasses and follow safety precautions during installation.
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.
Manufacturer Notes:
- Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for additional information.
- Store these instructions for future reference.