Installation Instructions for 2021-Current Subaru Forester

Part Numbers:

• 76927

Installation Time:

• Approximately 90 minutes for professional installers.

Tools Required:

• Ratchet Torque Wrench
• Safety Glasses
• Sockets: 10mm, 14mm, 17mm, 11/16”
• 6” Socket Extension
• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• Flat Head Screwdriver
• Plastic Rivet Gun
• Plastic Trim Tools
• Tape Measure
• Utility Knife
• Marker
• Silicone Sealant
• Blue Thread Locker
• Exhaust Removal Pliers

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Install Receiver Housing:

   • Unlock the blue handle using the provided key.
   • Remove the receiver housing by pressing the blue handle and rotating clockwise until it clicks.
   • Attach the weather covers to the receiver housing.
   • Secure the housing to the hitch using M12 bolts, flat washers, and prevailing torque nuts.
   • Torque the fasteners to 92 Lb.-Ft. (125 N*M).

2. Place Warning Labels:

   • Store the included warning card in the glove compartment.
   • Apply one warning label to the receiver and another to the door jamb.

3. Remove Taillights:

   • Open the tailgate and remove the plastic cover near the taillight.
   • Remove two push-pin rivets and two screws with a 10mm socket from each taillight.
   • Gently pull the taillights rearward, disconnect the wiring, and set them aside.

4. Remove Fascia:

   • Remove two plastic push-pin rivets from the bottom edge of the fascia using a flat head screwdriver.
   • Remove four rivets from the bottom outer edge of the fascia near the wheel wells.
   • Remove one rivet from inside the wheel well using a flat head screwdriver. Note: Factory rivets cannot be reused; replacement rivets are supplied.
   • Carefully detach the fascia using plastic trim tools and disconnect any wiring harnesses.

5. Lower Exhaust:

   • Use exhaust removal pliers to remove two hangers from the exhaust. Ensure the exhaust is properly supported.
   • Remove the rearmost rubber plug from the frame rail on each side using a flat head screwdriver.

6. Remove Bumper Beam:

   • Use a 14mm socket to remove two M10 flange hex nuts and four M10 hex bolts from the bumper beam.
   • Disconnect the blind spot monitor wire, if equipped, and set the bumper beam aside.

7. Apply Silicone Sealant:

   • Apply silicone sealant to the hitch bracket mounting surfaces to ensure a secure fit.

8. Install Hitch:

   • Apply blue thread locker to all fasteners.
   • Raise the hitch into position, aligning the tabs with the frame rail.
   • Fish wire the carriage bolts and spacers into place, securing them with flat washers, lock washers, and hex nuts.
   • Loosely install M10 nuts and conical washers onto the studs and hex bolts into the weld nuts in the end panel.

9. Tighten Fasteners:

   • Torque all M10-1.25 fasteners to 42 Lb.-Ft. (57 NM) and 7/16-14 fasteners to 50 Lb.-Ft. (68 NM).

10. Trim Fascia:

    • Locate the center of the fascia and cut an 8.75” wide by 4.25” tall notch using a utility knife. Ensure the area is clear of any wiring before trimming.

11. Reinstall Components:

    • Reconnect all wiring, reinstall the fascia using the original rivets, and secure the rear wheel well location using the provided plastic rivets.
    • Reinstall the exhaust, taillights, and taillight covers using the original fasteners.

Hardware List:

• (2) M12x1.75x100mm Bolts (CL10.9)
• (2) Flat Washers (7/16”)
• (2) Prevailing Torque Nuts (M12x1.75 CL10)
• (2) Carriage Bolts (7/16”-14 x 1.50” Gr5)
• (2) Spacers (.106” x .88” x 2”)
• (2) Flat Washers (7/16”)
• (2) Lock Washers (7/16”)
• (2) Hex Nuts (7/16”-14)
• (2) Pull Wires (7/16”-14)
• (4) M10x1.25x35 Hex Bolts (CL8.8)
• (6) Conical Washers (3/8”)
• (2) Hex Nuts (M10-1.25)
• (4) Plastic Rivets (2 Required)

Safety Notes:

• Regularly inspect all fasteners to ensure proper tightening.
• Plug any holes in the vehicle body if the hitch is removed to prevent water or exhaust fumes from entering.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball.
• Always wear safety glasses during installation.
• Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.

Specifications:

• Hitch Type:
  • Weight Carrying: 3,500 lb. (1,589 kg) Max Gross Trailer Weight, 350 lb. (159 kg) Max Tongue Weight
  • Weight Distributing: Not Applicable
• This product complies with SAE J684 and New York V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5.

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter for Subaru (Forester, Outback, XV Crosstrek)

Part Numbers:

• 118467

Tools Required:

• Trim Panel Remover
• Test Probe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rear Cargo Area:

   • Open the vehicle’s rear tailgate.
   • Remove the cargo nets and cargo floor hatch to access the spare tire area.

2. Locate the Tow Plug Housing:

   • 2009-2013 Subaru Forester: Remove the driver’s side and center foam cargo trays to locate the tow plug housing under the driver’s side foam tray.
   • 2010-2019 Subaru Outback: Locate the tow plug housing behind the driver’s side trim panel. It is taped to the wire harness with blue tape.
   • 2014-Current Subaru Forester / XV Crosstrek: Locate the tow plug housing behind the driver’s side trim panel. It is taped to the wire harness with tape.
   • 2020-Current Subaru Outback: Temporarily remove the rear threshold plate. Locate the tow plug on the passenger side under the rear threshold plate. It is taped to the harness with tape.

3. Connect the T-Connector Harness:

   • Insert the T-Connector harness into the vehicle’s tow plug housing and lock it into place.
   • Ensure the connectors are fully inserted with the locking tabs engaged.

   Warning:

   • All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly.
   • Test and verify the installation with a test light or trailer. For the initial test, reset the vehicle's electrical system by temporarily removing the key from the ignition.

4. Mount the Black Box:

   • On the driver’s side, mount the T-Connector black box using the provided double-sided tape.
   • Secure the remaining T-Connector harness with the provided cable ties, avoiding areas that could cut or pinch the wire.

   Note:

   • Store the 4-flat connector in the spare tire compartment when not in use.

   Warning:

   • Overloading circuits can cause fires. Do not exceed the lower of the towing manufacturer’s rating or the following specifications:
     • Max. stop/turn light: 1 per side (2.1 amps)
     • Max. tail lights: (5.6 amps)

Safety Notes:

• Always follow all warnings and instructions included with the product before beginning installation.
• Wear safety glasses and use all safety precautions during installation.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual and instruction sheet for additional details.