CURT 13363 Class 3 Square Tube Receiver Hitch Installation Guide

: June 13, 2024
: Curt

Table of Contents

CURT 13363 Class 3 Square Tube Receiver Hitch
Product Information
Product Usage Instructions
13363 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
INSTALLATION REQUIRES
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

CURT 13363 Class 3 Square Tube Receiver Hitch

Product Information

The product is a trailer hitch designed for the Jeep Compass SUV model, manufactured by CURT Manufacturing LLC. It is compatible with model years 2017.5 to present.
The trailer hitch has a weight carrying capacity of 4,000 lbs for trailer weight and 600 lbs for tongue weight. It is recommended to never exceed the towing capacity recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
The installation of this product requires various tools including a ratchet, sockets (11mm, 13mm, 15mm, 21mm, 3/4″), torque wrench, T30 Torx bit socket, socket extension, pliers, aviation shears, safety glasses, die grinder, tape measure, and marker. The installation time is estimated to be 45 minutes for professional installers and 90 minutes for novices.
It is important to read all instructions thoroughly before beginning the installation. The use of proper tools and assistance from another person may be beneficial during the installation process. For any questions or assistance, technical support can be contacted at 877.287.8634.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Using a T30 Torx bit, remove the (2) screws attaching the bumper fascia to the body mounts. Save for re-installation later.

For tow hook equipped models, use a 21mm socket to remove the (6) 14mm hex bolts from the vehicle frame and use them to attach the hitch. Follow steps 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, and 9.
Use a 13mm socket to remove the (1) bolt on each of the (2) rearward most exhaust hanger brackets. Note: Support the exhaust before removing the nuts to prevent damage to the exhaust.

Periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound.

Note: Alteration, misuse, or improper installation of the product voids the warranty. CURT Manufacturing LLC.’s liability is limited to repair or replacement of products found to be defective, and excludes liability for incidental or consequential loss or damage.

For more information, please visit www.curtmfg.com.

13363 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

YEARS : 2017.5-PRESENT
MAKE : JEEP
MODEL : COMPASS
STYLE : SUV

WARNING: NEVER EXCEED YOUR VEHICLE MANUFACTURER’S RECOMMENDED TOWING CAPACITY For more information log onto www.curtmfg.com & for helpful towing tips log onto www.hitchinfo.com

WEIGHT CARRYING

TRAILER WEIGHT : 4,000 LBS.
TONGUE WEIGHT : 600 LBS.
PRO INSTALL TIME : 45 MIN.
NOVICE INSTALL TIME : 90 MIN.

IF YOU ARE HESITANT TO UNDERTAKE
THIS TASK ON YOUR OWN, CONTACT AN AUTHORIZED CURT INSTALLER FOR ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE.

INSTALLATION REQUIRES

INSTALLATION TIPS

BEFORE YOU BEGIN INSTALLATION, READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS THOROUGHLY.
TO EASE INSTALLATION, 2 PEOPLE MAY BE REQUIRED.
USING PROPER TOOLS WILL GREATLY IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF THE INSTALL AND REDUCE THE TIME REQUIRED.
NEED HELP OR HAVE SOME QUESTIONS?
CALL TECHNICAL SUPPORT AT 877.287.8634

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: CHALLENGING VEHICLE PHOTO

REPRESENTATIVE PHOTO

HITCH ILLUSTRATION

MAKE SURE YOUR HITCH MATCHES

SCAN FOR
MORE Information

PERIODICALLY CHECK THIS RECEIVER HITCH TO ENSURE ALL FASTENERS ARE TIGHT AND ALL STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS ARE SOUND

CURT Manufacturing LLC. warrants this product to be free of defects in material and/or workmanship at the time of retail purchase by the original purchaser. If the product is found to be defective,
CURT Manufacturing LLC. may repair or replace the product at their option, when the product is returned, prepaid, with proof of purchase. Alteration to, misuse of, or improper installation of this product
voids the warranty. CURT Manufacturing LLC.’s liability is limited to repair or replacement of products found to be defective, and specifically excludes liability for incidental or consequential loss or damage.

For more information log onto www.curtmfg.com
This product 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 WALKTHROUGH

Parts List

ITEM| QTY| PART NUMBER| DESCRIPTION
1| 6| 10-10272| BOLT,CAR,1/2-13 UNC,1-3/4,GRD8,YZ
2| 2| 10-10464| HHCS,M8x1.25,45,CL10.9,YZ
3| 6| 20-00062| NUT,SER-FLANGE,1/2-13 UNC,GRD8,YZ
4| 6| CM-SP10| .250 x 1.00 x 2.50″ SQUARE HOLE SPACER
5| 6| 1_2 FISHWIRE| 1/2″ FISHWIRE
6| 2| 30-00148| WASHER, S-CON,3/8,YZ

PASSENGER SIDE FRAME RAIL

$CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $5$$ FISHWIRE TECHNIQUE INSERT COILED END OF FISHWIRE TOOL THROUGH HITCH MOLINTING HOLE IN VEHICI E FRAME RAII AND OUT THE ACCESS HOLE. PASS COILED END OF FISHWIRE THROUGH SPACER AND THREAD BOT INTO CO KINK WIRE TO KEEP SPACER SEPARATE FRON BOLT AS SHOWN. PULL FISHWIRE, SPACER, AND BOLT THROUGH FRAME AND OUT MOUNTING HOLE USE FISHWIRE TO GUIDE HITCH DURING MOUNTING AND PREVENT LOSS OF BOLT / SPACER INSIDE FRAME RAIL.

*“NOTE: SOME VEHICLES MAY FISHWIRE THROUGH END OF FRAME

REVERSE PULL FISHWIRE TECHNIQUE ATTACH FISHWIRE TO CARRIAGE BOLT AND SLIDE SPACER ONTO FISHWIRE. PUSH THE BOLT THRU THE HOLE FOLLOWED BY THE SPACER (AS SHOWN). PULL BOLT BACK INTO POSITION, PROTRUDING FROM THE FRAME.

Using a T30 Torx bit, remove the (2) screws attaching the bumper fascia to the body mounts. Save for re-installation later.
Tow hook equipped models : Using the 21mm socket, remove the (6) 14mm hex bolts from vehicle frame and use to attach hitch. Follow steps 2, 3, 5, 6, 8 and 9.
$CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $8$$ Use a 13mm socket to remove the (1) bolt on each of the (2) rearward most exhaust hanger brackets. NOTE: Support the exhaust before removing the nuts to prevent damage to the exhaust.
TIP: Temporarily removing the exhaust will ease installation of the hitch. Remove by loosening the nut at the bolted connection in the middle of the vehicle with a 15mm socket. $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $9$$
INSTALLATION WALKTHROUGH
Use the 11mm socket to remove the (3) sheet metal nuts holding the heat shield in position. Remove the heat shield and trim the exhaust attachment tabs from it. Re-install heat shield center onto vehicle. $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $10$$
Remove the (6) plastic hole covers if present and using a die grinder, enlarge the rearward most holes in the bottom of the frame to allow the supplied carriage bolts and spacers to pass through. Fishwire all (6) 1/2″ carriage bolts and CM-SP10 spacers into the mounting positions as shown in the diagram above. $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $11$$ For more information log onto www.curtmfg.com
Using tape, a marker, and measuring tape, locate the center of the vehicle and mark a 3 3/8″ side to side and 2 5/8″ lengthwise cutout. Using a tin snips or aviation shears, trim out the area marked. NOTE: These dimensions are reference only, make sure to check hitch location on vehicle prior to trimming. $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $12$$
With a pliers, bend the (2) small locator tabs flat on each exhaust bracket or remove entirely. $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $13$$ INSTALLATION WALKTHROUGH
Thread fishwires into the hitch mounting holes and raise the hitch into mounting position with the main body on the rearward side of the bumper fascia body mounts. Pull downward on the rear bumper cover +5″ to accomplish getting the hitch in position. Remove the fishwires and install the (6) 1/2″ hex flange nuts provided. $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $14$$
Torque all 1/2″ fasteners to 110 lb-ft. Torque all M14 fasteners to 126 lb-ft. $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $15$$ For more information log onto www.curtmfg.com
Reinstall or raise exhaust back into position and reinstall the bolts removed in step 2. Reinstall the rear bumper cover screws removed in step 1. $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $16$$

Gross Trailer Weight I GTW
The Gross Trailer Weight Is the weight of the trailer & cargo. Measure this by putting the fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale.

Tongue Weight I TW
The downward force that is exerted on the hitch ball by the coupler. The tongue weight will vary depending on where the load is positioned in relationship to the trailer axle(s). To measure the tongue weight, use either a commercial scale or a bathroom scale with the coupler at towing height. When using a bathroom scale with heavier tongue weights, use the method shown and multiply the scale reading by 3.

Weight Carrying I WC

The total weight of both the trailer and the cargo inside.
Never exceed the weight capacity of your trailer hitch.

Weight Distribution I WD
Used to balance the weight of the cargo between the front and rear wheels throughout the trailer, allowing for better steering, braking, and level riding.

$CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $19$$

Sway Control
A device used to reduce the lateral movements of the trailer that are caused by the wind. This works in conjunction with a weight distribution hitch. Do not use this on a class 1 or 2 hitch, or with surge brakes.

How Much Can You Safely Tow?

$CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $20$$

Ball Mount
The ball mount is placed inside the opening of the receiver hitch which is mounted to the vehicle. Make sure a hitch pin and clip is properly securing the ball mount to the receiver
hitch beforeou b in towing.

Trailer Ball
The connection from the hitch to the trailer. There are many factors that determine the correct hitch ball:

Number one is the hitch ball’s gross trailer weight rating. The mounting platform must be at least 3/8″ thick.
The hole diameter must not be more than 1/16 larger than the threaded shank.
Every time you tow, check the nut and lock washer to make sure they are fastened securely.
- A : Ball Dia.
- B : Shank Length.
- C : Shank Dia.
- D : Shank Rise.

Coupler
The component that is placed over the trailer ball to connect the vehicle to the trailer. Be sure that the coupler size matches the size of the hitch ball and that the coupler handle is securely fastened. To determine what size hitch ball you need for your application you will need to know the size of coupler that is on the trailer. Be sure your coupler is properly adjusted to the ball you are using.

NOTE: For added security the use of safety devices such as Coupler Safety Pins and Locks is strongly recommended.

Safety Chains
Safety chains are a requirement and should be crossed under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Always leave enough slack so you can turn. Never allow the safety chains to drag on the ground and never attach the chains to the bumper.

Trailer Classification : Safety Chain Breaking Force Minimum
Class 1 : 2,000 lbs. (8.9 kN)
Class 2 : 3,500 lbs. (15.6 kN)
Class 3 : 5,000 lbs. (22.2 kN)

The strength rating of each length of safety chain or its equivalent and its attachments shall be equal to or exceed in minimum breaking force the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of the trailer.

Electrical
Trailer lights, Electric Brakes, Break-away systems – Every time you tow, be sure to check that all components are working properly.

Wiring identification by color $CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver- Hitch $23$$

CURT DISCLA!MER : WIRING COLOR SHOWN WORK IN CONJUNCT/ON WITH CURT MANUFACTURING PRO DUCTS.

JEEP COMPASS

GROSS LOAD CAPACITY WHEN USED AS A WEIGHT CARRYING HIT CH: 4, 00 0 LBS. TRAILER WEIGHT & 6 0 0

WARNING: DO NOT EXCEED VEHICLE MANUFACTURER’S RECOMMENDED TOWING CAPACITY

FOR MORE INFORMATION LOG ONTO WWW.CURTMFG.COM

HAVING INSTALLATION QUESTIONS? CALL TECHNICAL SUPPORT AT 877-287-8634

Parts List

ITEM| QTY| PART NUMBER| DESCRIPTION
1| 6| 10-10272| BOLT,CAR,1/2-13 UNC,1-3/4,GRD8,YZ
2| 2| 10-10464| HHCS,M8x1.25,45,CL10.9,YZ
3| 6| 20-00062| NUT,SER-FLANGE,1/2-13 UNC,GRD8,YZ
4| 6| CM-SP10| .250 x 1.00 x 2.50″ SQUARE HOLE SPACER
5| 6| 1_2 FISHWIRE| 1/2″ FISHWIRE
6| 2| 30-00148| WASHER, S-CON,3/8,YZ
TOOLS RE| QUIRED|

RATCHET
TORQUE WRENCH
SAFETY GLASSES
T30 TORQ BIT
11mm, 13mm, 15mm, 21mm, 3/4″ SOCKETS
MASKING TAPE
TAPE MEASURE
AVIATION SHEARS
DIE GRINDER
PLIERS
MARKER

CURT-1336

HEAT SHIELD TRIM DIAGRAM

HITCH WEIGHT: 42 LBS.
INSTALL TIME
PROFESSIONAL: 45 MINUTES
NOVICE (DIY ): 90 MINUTES

INSTALL NOTES

REMOVE/TRIM HEAT SHIELD
FISHWIRE HARDWARE
ENLARGE HOLES
LOWER/MODIFY EXHAUST
TRIM FASCIA

$CURT-13363-Class-3-Square-Tube-Receiver-Hitch $26$$

INSTALLATION STEPS

Using a T30 Torx bit, remove the (2) screws attaching the bumper fascia to the body mounts. Save for re-installation later.
Use a 13mm socket to remove the (1) bolt on each of the (2) rearward most exhaust hanger brackets.
NOTE: Support the exhaust before removing the nuts to prevent damage to the exhaust.
TIP: Temporarily removing the exhaust will ease installation of the hitch. Remove by loosening the nut at the bolted connection in the middle of the vehicle with a 15mm socket.
Use the 11mm socket to remove the (3) sheet metal nuts holding the heat shield in position. Remove the heat shield and trim the exhaust attachment tabs from it. Re-install heat shield center onto vehicle.
Tow hook equipped models : Using the 21mm socket, remove the (6) 14mm hex bolts from vehicle frame and use to attach hitch. Follow steps 5, 6, 8 and 9.
Remove the (6) plastic hole covers if present and using a die grinder, enlarge the rearward most holes in the bottom of the frame to allow the supplied carriage bolts and spacers to pass through. Fishwire all (6) 1/2″ carriage bolts and CM-SP10 spacers into the mounting positions as shown in the diagram above.
Using tape, a marker, and measuring tape, locate the center of the vehicle and mark a 3 3/8″ side to side and 2 5/8″ lengthwise cutout. Using a tin snips or aviation shears, trim out the area marked. NOTE: These dimensions are reference only, make sure to check hitch location on vehicle prior to trimming.
With a pliers, bend the (2) small locator tabs flat on each exhaust bracket or remove entirely.
Thread fishwires into the hitch mounting holes and raise the hitch into mounting position with the main body on the rearward side of the bumper fascia body mounts. Pull downward on the rear bumper cover +5″ to accomplish getting the hitch in position. Remove the fishwires and install the (6) 1/2″ hex flange nuts provided.
Torque all 1/2″ fasteners to 110 lb-ft. Torque all M14 fasteners to 126 lb-ft.
Reinstall or raise exhaust back into position and reinstall the flange bolts removed in step 2. Reinstall the rear bumper cover screws removed in step 1.

PERIODICALLY CHECK THIS RECEIVER HITCH TO ENSURE THAT ALL FASTENERS ARE TIGHT AND THAT ALL STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS ARE SOUND.

Scan for more information

CURT Manufacturing LLC., warrants this product to be free of defects in material and/or workmanship at the time of retail purchase by the original purchaser. If the product is found to be defective, CURT Manufacturing LLC., may repair or replace the product, at their option, when the product is returned, prepaid, with proof of purchase. Alteration to, misuse of, or improper installation of this product voids the warranty. CURT Manufacturing LLC.’s liability is limited to repair or replacement of products found to be defective, and specifically excludes liability for incidental or consequential loss or damage. This product 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.