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Complete CURT Class 3 2" trailer hitch and 5-flat wiring kit (with 4-way to 5-way adapter for surge brakes) engineered for the 2002 - 2005 Mercury Mountaineer Fits beneath factory 1-1/4" receiver. Vehicle-specific fit, plug-and-play installation, all hardware and instructions included.
This custom kit fits the following vehicles:
All Hardware and Installation Instructions Included!
Whatever your task at hand -- whether it's launching that boat before daybreak, setting up your camper before the rush or getting a final load to the dump before close -- CURT class 3 trailer hitches offer the strength needed for serious towing. They make it easy to hitch up and Bring It, offering a vehicle-specific fit and the weight capacity to handle a variety of trailers. Custom class 3 hitches are the most common type of receiver hitch for pickup trucks and SUVs. Because of their weight range, they are also found on full-size cars, crossovers and minivans. Each custom-fit class 3 hitch package is made for vehicle-specific mounting. This particular kit fits certain years of the Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator and Mercury Mountaineer (see application info to verify vehicle compatibility). It provides a weight carrying capacity of 5,000 lbs. GTW and 500 lbs. TW. It is also compatible with a weight distribution hitch for level towing and a rating of 8,000 lbs. WD and 800 lbs. WDTW. CURT class 3 trailer hitches are typically used to attach and haul utility trailers, boat trailers, campers, snowmobile or ATV haulers and more (NOTE: Never exceed the lowest-rated towing component). Each class 3 hitch has a 2" receiver tube and is tested in accordance with SAE J684 for safety. To ensure that CURT class 3 receiver hitches have what it takes for serious trailering, they are designed using a hands-on approach and are constructed with rugged, high-strength steel and precise welding. We also protect our class 3 hitches in a co-cured finish of liquid A-coat and black powder coat for superior resistance to rust, chipping and UV damage.
CURT custom wiring connectors are the easiest way to outfit your vehicle with a CURT trailer wiring connection. They are built with some of the most advanced technology in the industry, and each one is custom-fitted to work with a specific make and model. Some automotive manufacturers install a special socket on the vehicle to be used for vehicle-to-trailer wiring. Although this special socket is not equipped on every vehicle, a CURT custom wiring connector -- also called a T-connector -- utilizes the socket for simple, stress-free installation. Rather than requiring you to cut, splice and solder into your vehicle's wiring system, the custom wiring connector uses a single OEM-compatible plug and instantly provides a standard, universal vehicle-to-trailer wiring connection, typically in the form a 4-way flat. All CURT custom wiring connectors are made vehicle-specific for the easiest possible installation and the best fit. This particular plug-in connector provides a 4-way flat socket and is designed to be a custom wiring option for certain years of the Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer and Lincoln Aviator (factory tow package required; to verify your vehicle compatibility, see application info). It comes with all necessary hardware to establish a solid connection. It also comes with a dust cover to keep the connector socket clean when not in use. To ensure long-lasting reliability, all CURT custom wiring connectors are thoroughly tested for optimal functionality. Stress is the last thing you should feel when towing a trailer -- whether you're hauling your RV to that favorite camping destination, your ATVs up to the hunting grounds or your fishing boat to the new hidden hotspot. At CURT, we think your towing equipment should add to the enjoyment of your experience, not detract from it.

CURT offers a variety of high-quality trailer hitches and accessories for select vehicle models. Find the perfect fit for your towing needs at TowUniverse.
CURT, a Lippert brand, offers a complete line of towing products and is the leading manufacturer of custom-fit trailer hitches. We offer the broadest selection of custom-fit hitches, and each one is designed, welded, and coated in Wisconsin.
CURT is also a leader in flat towing products, as well as 5th wheel, gooseneck, and weight distribution hitches, ball mounts, electrical components, cargo solutions, and other towing accessories.
For everything from passenger cars and vans to full-size pickups and SUVs, CURT is 'The First Name in Towing Products®.'
Experts available to answer your questions
Call 888-634-94941 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 - 2005 | Mercury Mountaineer | Fits beneath factory 1: 1/4" receiver |
Yes, the 02 - 05 Mercury Mountaineer Fits beneath factory 1-1/4" receiver Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 13550 (Part #5W-CHW-2424) is designed to fit the 2002-2005 Mercury Mountaineer.
The 02 - 05 Mercury Mountaineer Fits beneath factory 1-1/4" receiver Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 13550 (Part #5W-CHW-2424) fits the following vehicles: 2002-2005 Mercury Mountaineer. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The 02 - 05 Mercury Mountaineer Fits beneath factory 1-1/4" receiver Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 13550 (Part #5W-CHW-2424) fits 2002-2005 Mercury Mountaineer models. The 2005 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The 02 - 05 Mercury Mountaineer Fits beneath factory 1-1/4" receiver Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 13550 (Part #5W-CHW-2424) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The hitch weight is 37 lbs.
Yes, the Curt 13550 is designed for 02-05 Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, and Lincoln Aviator.
No. Do not use both receivers at the same time. The manual explicitly warns that using both the OEM hitch and the aftermarket receiver hitch simultaneously may overload and cause damage to the vehicle.
When used as a weight-carrying hitch, the gross load capacity is 5,000 lbs trailer weight and 500 lbs tongue weight. Do not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
When used as a weight-distribution hitch, the gross load capacity is 8,000 lbs trailer weight and 800 lbs tongue weight. Do not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
The kit includes: 6 flat washers (1/2"), 2 carriage bolts (1/2"-13 UNC, 1-3/4", Grade 8), 2 serrated flange nuts (1/2"-13 UNC, Grade 8), 6 hex cap screws (M12×1.75, 45 mm, Class 10.9), 2 square hole spacers (0.250" × 1.50" × 2.00"), and 2 pieces of 1/2" fishwire.
No. The manual states "NO DRILLING REQUIRED." The hitch uses existing frame holes and fastener locations.
Yes. Step 1 of the installation requires you to remove 3 existing bumper bracket nuts (if present) and 3 M12 or M14 bolts from each side of the frame before installing the hitch.
The fishwire is used to guide the carriage bolts and square hole spacer through the end of the frame during installation (Step 2). Two pieces of 1/2" fishwire are included in the kit.
All M14 fasteners must be torqued to 136 ft-lb.
All M12 fasteners must be torqued to 79 ft-lb.
All 1/2" fasteners must be torqued to 110 ft-lb.
Yes. Step 4 requires you to reinstall factory fasteners. If your vehicle has M14 factory fasteners, reinstall them as-is. If your vehicle has M12 factory fasteners, install the supplied M12 fasteners and then reinstall the factory M12 nuts.
Periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure that all fasteners are tight and that all structural components are sound. This is an ongoing maintenance requirement to ensure safe operation.
Do not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity. The hitch itself supports up to 5,000 lbs trailer weight and 500 lbs tongue weight as a weight-carrying hitch, or 8,000 lbs trailer weight and 800 lbs tongue weight as a weight-distribution hitch, but your vehicle's limits may be lower.
Yes, the Curt 13550 is designed for 2002-2005 Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, and Lincoln Aviator.
M14 fasteners: 136 ft-lb; M12 fasteners: 79 ft-lb; 1/2" fasteners: 110 ft-lb.
Weight-carrying: 5,000 lbs trailer / 500 lbs tongue. Weight-distribution: 8,000 lbs trailer / 800 lbs tongue. Do not exceed your vehicle's manufacturer towing capacity.
No. Using both receivers simultaneously may overload and damage the vehicle.
Periodically check that all fasteners are tight and structural components are sound.
Yes, Curt part 55251 fits Ford Explorer models equipped with a factory tow package. The connector is designed for vehicles with a factory 4-flat connector. Check your vehicle owner's manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer to confirm your Explorer has the tow package.
Yes, the Curt 55251 custom wiring connector is compatible with Lincoln Navigator models that have a factory tow package. Your Navigator must be equipped with the tow package to use this connector.
Yes, the Curt 55251 is compatible with Mercury Mountaineer models that have a factory 4-flat connector and tow package. Verify your Mountaineer has the factory tow package before purchasing.
Yes. The Curt 55251 is designed for vehicles with a factory tow package. All listed applications (Ford Explorer, Lincoln Navigator, and Mercury Mountaineer) require the tow package. Check your vehicle owner's manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer to confirm your vehicle has this package.
The Curt 55251 is a custom wiring connector that connects your vehicle's factory taillight wiring harness to a 4-flat trailer connector. It allows you to safely power trailer lights using your vehicle's existing electrical system.
The vehicle taillight wiring harness connector is located behind the passenger-side rear bumper. Refer to the wiring location diagram on page 1 of the installation instructions for the exact location on your vehicle model.
1. Locate the vehicle taillight wiring harness connector behind the passenger-side rear bumper. Remove the protective dust cover and clean any debris. 2. Insert the custom wiring connector into the vehicle connector, ensuring the connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place. 3. Route the 4-flat to the center of the vehicle and out of the trunk when in use. When not in use, roll up and store in the trunk. 4. Secure loose wires with the provided cable ties. 5. Install the provided 4-flat dust cover to prevent corrosion.
No. The Curt 55251 is inserted directly into the existing vehicle taillight wiring harness connector. You do not remove the factory connector; instead, you insert the custom wiring connector into it.
When not in use, roll up the 4-flat connector and store it in a convenient, out-of-the-way location inside the trunk. This protects it from damage and keeps it organized.
The Curt 55251 includes the custom wiring connector, a 4-flat dust cover, and cable ties for securing loose wires.
Do not exceed the product rating or your tow vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower. Exceeding either rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating, and potential fire. Refer to your vehicle owner's manual for the tow vehicle lamp load rating, or contact the vehicle manufacturer for the specific product rating.
Test the connector for proper function using a test light or by connecting a properly wired trailer. This ensures the wiring connector is functioning correctly before towing.
Route the 4-flat connector to the center of the vehicle and out of the trunk when in use. This ensures proper cable routing and prevents damage to the connector or wiring.
The provided cable ties are used to secure any loose wires during installation. This keeps the wiring organized and prevents tangling or damage.
The provided 4-flat dust cover helps prevent corrosion of the connector. Installing it protects the connector from moisture and debris, extending its lifespan.
Before inserting the custom wiring connector, locate the vehicle taillight wiring harness connector behind the passenger-side rear bumper. Remove the protective dust cover and clean any debris from the connector to ensure a proper connection.
The custom wiring connector is fully inserted when the locking tabs are in place. Ensure the connectors are fully seated before proceeding with the installation.
The Curt 55251 fits Ford Explorer, Lincoln Navigator, and Mercury Mountaineer models equipped with a factory tow package.
No drilling is required. The connector inserts directly into the existing vehicle taillight wiring harness connector behind the passenger-side rear bumper.
No tools are required for installation. The manual lists 'None' under Tools Needed.
Do not exceed the product rating or tow vehicle lamp load rating, whichever is lower. Exceeding either can cause loss of warranty, overheating, and potential fire.
Test the connector using a test light or by connecting a properly wired trailer to verify proper function.
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