CURT 13503 Trailer Hitch Instruction Manual
- June 13, 2024
- Curt
Table of Contents
CURT 13503 Trailer Hitch
Product Information
This is an installation manual for a trailer hitch, model number 13503. The hitch has a weight carrying capacity of 7,500 lbs gross trailer weight (GTW) and a tongue weight (TW) capacity of 750 lbs. It also has a weight distribution capacity of 8,000 lbs and a weight distribution tongue weight (WDTW) capacity of 800 lbs.
The parts included in the package are as follows:
- 2 Carriage bolt, 1/2-13 UNC, 1-3/4, grade 8
- 2 Serrated flange nut, 1/2-13 UNC, grade 8
- 2 Round hole spacer, .188 x 1.50 x 2.00
- 2 Square hole spacer, .250 x 1.00 x 3.00
- 2 Fishwire, 1/2
The tools required for installation are:
- Socket, 3/4
- Torque wrench
- Socket, 21mm
- Ratchet
Safety instructions state that safety glasses should be worn at all times during installation.
Product registration and warranty information can be found at warranty.curtgroup.com/surveys.
Product Usage Instructions
Assembly
Follow the steps below to assemble the trailer hitch:
- Insert the coiled end of the fishwire tool through the hitch mounting hole in the vehicle frame rail and out the access hole.
- Pass the coiled end of the fishwire through the round or square hole spacer and thread the carriage bolt into the coil. Kink the wire to keep the spacer separate from the bolt.
- Pull the fishwire, spacer, and bolt through the frame and out of the mounting hole. Use the fishwire to guide the hitch during mounting and prevent loss of bolt or spacer inside the frame rail.
Installation
Follow the steps below to install the trailer hitch:
- Locate the four factory M14 bolts securing the rear crossbeam to the bottom of the frame. Remove each bolt using a 21mm socket.
- Fishwire the square hole spacers (#4) and carriage bolts (#1) into the forward mounting hole of both frame rails using the next hole forward as the access hole.
- Slide the round hole spacers (#3) onto the fishwired bolts and raise the hitch into position. Loosely reinstall the four factory M14 bolts. It is recommended to have a second person or use a jack to assist in lifting into position while each bolt is reinstalled.
- Loosely install the supplied serrated flange nuts (#2) onto the fishwired bolts.
- Torque all M14 fasteners to 126 ft-lbs and all 1/2 fasteners to 110 ft-lbs.
For more information on safely towing your trailer, visit curtmfg.com /understanding-towing.
Level of Difficulty
Easy
Installation difficulty levels are based on time and effort involved and may vary depending on the installer level of expertise, condition of the vehicle and proper tools and equipment.
curtmfg.com/trailer-hitch-installation
NOTICE
Visit www.curtmfg.com for a full-color copy of this instruction manual, as well as helpful videos, guides and much more!
Before you begin installation, read all instructions thoroughly.
Proper tools will improve the quality of installation and reduce the time
required.
This installation requires:
Removal of four bumper tube bolts Periodic inspection of the trailer hitch
should be performed to ensure all mounting hardware remains tight and
structural components are secure.
To help prevent damage to the product or vehicle, refer to the specified
torque specifications when securing hardware during the installation process.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Safety glasses should be worn at all times while installing this product.
Product Registration and Warranty
CURT stands behind our products with industry-leading warranties. To get copies of the product warranties, register your purchase or provide feedback, visit: warranty.curtgroup.com/surveys
ASSEMBLY
- Step 1
Locate the four factory M14 bolts securing the rear crossbeam to the bottom of the frame. Remove each bolt using a 21mm socket.
- Step 2
Fishwire the .250″ x 1.00″ x 3.00″ square hole spacers (#4) and 1/2” carriage bolts (#1) into the forward mounting hole of both frame rails using the next hole forward as the access hole.
- Step 3
Slide the .188″ x 1.50″ x 2.00″ round hole spacers (#3) onto the fishwired bolts and raise the hitch into position. Loosely reinstall the four factory M14 bolts.
Note: It is recommended to have a second person or use of a jack to assist in lifting into position while each bolt is reinstalled.
-
Step 4
Loosely install the supplied 1/2” serrated flange nuts (#2) onto the fishwired bolts. -
Step 5
Torque all M14 fasteners to 126 ft-lbs. and all 1/2” fasteners to 110 ft-lbs.
Final Installed Image
TOWING BASICS & SAFETY INFORMATION
For information on safely towing your trailer, visit curtmfg.com /understanding-towing.
CURTMFG.COM • PRODUCT SUPPORT: 877.287.8634 • 13503-INS- RA • 05/12/2022 • ECN9692 • PAGE 4
References
- CURT: Trailer Hitches - Trailer Wiring - 5th Wheel - Gooseneck
- 8 Easy Steps - Trailer Hitch Installation How-To
- Towing Guide, How-tos, References & Glossary
- CURT: Trailer Hitches - Trailer Wiring - 5th Wheel - Gooseneck
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