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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 2017 - 2018 Ford Escape Excluding SE models. 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 Escape (see application info to verify vehicle compatibility). It provides a weight carrying capacity of 3,500 lbs. GTW and 350 lbs. TW. It is also compatible with a weight distribution hitch for level towing and a rating of 5,000 lbs. WD and 500 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.
If your vehicle is not equipped with wiring for towing a trailer, CURT custom wiring is the ideal solution. A custom wiring harness -- also called a T-connector -- is a simple, plug-and-play electrical device that plugs into your automotive electric system and provides a standard, universal trailer wiring connection. This is done using two or more vehicle-specific, OEM-compatible connectors to plug into the taillight assembly, eliminating the need for cutting, splicing and soldering during installation. Custom wiring harnesses are made vehicle-specific, and while they are not available for all vehicles, they do offer one of the fastest, easiest and most secure ways to wire a vehicle for towing. This particular plug-in harness provides a 4-way flat connector socket and is designed to be a custom wiring harness to fit certain years of the Ford Escape (to verify your vehicle compatibility, see application info). It comes with all necessary wiring components to establish a reliable trailer wiring connection, as well as a dust cover to keep the connector clean when not in use. You have a picture in mind of your next destination -- maybe it's the boat landing at your favorite fishing spot, maybe it's a campsite that overlooks one of nature's masterpieces, or maybe it's the next big jobsite. However, turning that picture into a reality takes more than just daydreaming. It takes a solid connection and the right amount of power. CURT custom wiring is made with some of the most sophisticated technology in the industry and is designed to install with ease, giving you a long-lasting electrical connection for your towing hitch setup.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 - 2018 | Ford Escape | Excluding SE models |
The 17 - 18 Ford Escape Excluding SE models Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 13186 (Part #5W-CHW-965) fits the following vehicles: 2017-2018 Ford Escape. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The 17 - 18 Ford Escape Excluding SE models Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 13186 (Part #5W-CHW-965) fits 2017-2018 Ford Escape models. The 2018 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the 17 - 18 Ford Escape Excluding SE models Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 13186 (Part #5W-CHW-965) is designed to fit the 2017-2018 Ford Escape.
The 17 - 18 Ford Escape Excluding SE models Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 13186 (Part #5W-CHW-965) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
CURT part number 13186 is designed for 2013-Present Ford Escape SUVs only. Verify your vehicle year and model match before purchasing. If you have a different year or model, contact CURT technical support at 877-287-8634 to confirm fitment.
When used as a weight-carrying hitch, the CURT 13186 supports 3,500 lbs trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight. When used as a weight-distribution hitch, it supports 5,000 lbs trailer weight and 500 lbs tongue weight. However, you must never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity, which may be lower than these ratings.
Required tools are: torque wrench, ratchet, 6-inch extension, 13mm socket, 10mm socket, 11/16-inch socket, die grinder, aviation shears, and safety glasses. A torque wrench is essential for final fastener tightening to the correct specifications (70 ft-lbs for 7/16-inch hardware and 23 ft-lbs for M8 hardware).
The manual does not mention battery disconnection. No electrical work is required for this hitch installation.
Two people may be required to ease installation. While one person may be able to complete the work, having a second person will help, particularly when sliding the hitch into position and managing the fishwire hardware.
Professional installation takes approximately 80 minutes. Novice (DIY) installation takes approximately 45 minutes. These times assume you have the required tools and follow all steps carefully.
The installation is rated as Moderate difficulty. The process involves temporary exhaust lowering, heat shield trimming, access hole enlargement, and fishwire hardware techniques. If you are hesitant to undertake this task, contact an authorized CURT installer for assistance.
No new drilling is required. However, the existing access holes in the frame rails must be enlarged to allow 7/16-inch carriage bolts to pass through. This enlargement is done using a die grinder or aviation shears as part of Step 3 of the installation process.
Yes. You must remove one fastener securing the heat shield to the bottom of the driver side frame rail, then trim the portion of the heat shield covering the mounting areas of both the driver and passenger side frame rails. After trimming, re-attach the heat shield to the bottom of the driver side. A trim diagram is provided in the manual showing the hatched area to be removed (approximately 1 inch in the reference area shown).
Yes. You must temporarily lower the exhaust by removing four 8mm bolts from the muffler brackets and the forward rubber isolator in Step 1. These four 8mm bolts should be returned to the vehicle owner. The rubber isolator is re-attached in Step 9 after the hitch is fully installed and torqued.
The kit includes: 6 pieces of 7/16-inch fishwire, 6 carriage bolts (7/16-14 x 1.5 inches), 6 square hole spacers (CM-SP7, 0.250 x 1.00 x 2.00 inches), 6 hex flange nuts (7/16-14), 4 washers (5/16 inch), and 4 M8-1.25 x 30 hex head bolts. The four 8mm bolts removed from the muffler brackets are returned to the owner and not reused.
Fishwire is a technique to guide fasteners through frame rail access holes. In Step 4, you thread 7/16-inch carriage bolts and SP7 spacers through the enlarged access hole and out the two rear-most mounting holes on both sides. You then reverse-fishwire a carriage bolt and spacer back through the enlarged access hole on both sides. The fishwires are left attached to prevent loss into the frame rails and are removed in Step 6 when the hitch is in position and fasteners are being secured with flange nuts.
In Step 5, slide the hitch in from the rear passenger side of the vehicle over the exhaust and into position. Feed the fishwires through the mounting holes while raising the hitch. This approach allows the hitch to clear the temporarily lowered exhaust system.
Fasteners are initially loosely secured in Step 6 with 7/16-inch flange nuts on the bottom and side mounting holes. The muffler brackets are re-attached in Step 7 using M8-1.25 hex bolts and 5/16-inch washers. Final tightening occurs in Step 8: torque all 7/16-inch hardware to 70 ft-lbs and all M8 hardware to 23 ft-lbs. The rubber isolator is re-attached in Step 9 after all torquing is complete.
All 7/16-inch hardware (carriage bolts and flange nuts) must be torqued to 70 ft-lbs. This includes the fasteners securing the hitch to both the bottom and side mounting holes of the frame rails.
All M8 hardware (the M8-1.25 x 30 hex bolts used to re-attach the muffler brackets) must be torqued to 23 ft-lbs.
Safety glasses must be worn at all times while installing this product. Before beginning installation, read all instructions thoroughly. If you are hesitant to undertake this task on your own, contact an authorized CURT installer for additional assistance.
Never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity. While the CURT 13186 is rated for 3,500 lbs trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight as a weight-carrying hitch (or 5,000 lbs trailer and 500 lbs tongue as a weight-distribution hitch), your Ford Escape may have a lower manufacturer limit that must be observed.
After installation, verify that all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound. Periodically check the hitch during ownership to ensure all fasteners remain tight and structural integrity is maintained. This ongoing inspection is important for safe towing.
The manual states you should periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound. While a specific interval is not provided, regular inspection before towing trips is recommended to maintain safe operation.
The hitch weight is 40 lbs.
Yes, the CURT 13186 is designed for 2013-Present Ford Escape SUVs. Verify your exact year and model match before purchasing.
As a weight-carrying hitch: 3,500 lbs trailer, 350 lbs tongue. As a weight-distribution hitch: 5,000 lbs trailer, 500 lbs tongue. Never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
Torque wrench, ratchet, 6-inch extension, 13mm/10mm/11/16-inch sockets, die grinder, aviation shears, and safety glasses. A torque wrench is essential for proper fastener tightening.
Torque all 7/16-inch hardware to 70 ft-lbs. Torque all M8 hardware to 23 ft-lbs. Use a torque wrench for accuracy.
Professional installation: approximately 80 minutes. Novice (DIY) installation: approximately 45 minutes.
Never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity. Wear safety glasses during installation. Periodically check all fasteners are tight and structural components are sound.
Yes, the Curt 56320 is designed for Ford Escape vehicles classified as SUVs, Mini & Full-Sized Vans. Confirm your vehicle matches this classification before purchasing. For other vehicle models or years, contact the manufacturer or consult a fitment database.
The harness has two circuit ratings: Signal Circuits are rated at 3.0 amps per side, and Tail/Running Circuits are rated at 6.0 amps total. The battery connection must be fuse-protected with a 10-amp maximum fuse. Do not exceed the product rating or your tow vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower, as exceeding this can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire.
You will need: 8mm socket, 10mm socket, T-25 Torx bit, ratchet, panel trim removal tool, flat blade screwdriver, wire stripper, crimping tool, cutting tool, and pick tool. You will also need sealant (not provided by Curt) to seal the grommet after routing the wiring harness.
Yes. Step 1 requires you to locate the vehicle battery on the driver side under the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal before beginning any installation work.
You must remove: all trunk floor coverings, both storage trays (after removing their fasteners), and the rear scuff panel (after removing its fasteners). Take care not to damage the alignment tabs on the back of the scuff panel when removing it.
Use a trim panel removal tool to loosen the side trim panel starting on the driver side. Pull back on the side trim panel to locate the vehicle wiring harness. Take care not to damage the alignment tabs on the back side of the panel.
On the outside of the vehicle, locate and remove the two fastener caps. Remove the two fasteners securing the taillight. Gently pull the taillight rearward to remove it. On the back of the taillight, locate the vehicle taillight wiring harness connectors and separate them carefully, taking care not to damage the locking tabs.
Yes. Locate the grommet behind the taillight where the vehicle taillight wiring passes from inside the cabin to the taillight. Remove the grommet and cut a slit large enough to route the custom wiring harness through it. After routing the harness, reseat the grommet and use sealant (not provided) to seal the cut and around all wires.
You may need to drill a 3/32" pilot hole for the provided grounding screw, depending on your vehicle. First, locate a suitable grounding point near the connector, such as an existing screw with nut in the vehicle frame. If no suitable existing point is available, drill a 3/32" pilot hole in an area free of rust, dirt and paint. Secure the white ground wire using the ring terminal and provided screw.
Before drilling, check for miscellaneous items that may be hidden behind or under any surface to avoid damage and personal injury.
Locate a flat spot inside the vehicle near the taillight. Adhere the black converter box using the provided double-sided tape. The manual does not specify exact positioning beyond this location.
Route the custom wiring harness end with the green wire to the passenger side behind the removed scuff panel. Repeat Steps 6–12 on the passenger side using the harness end with the green wire. This mirrors the driver side installation process.
When in use, route the 4-flat to the center of the vehicle. When not in use, roll it up and store in a convenient, out-of-the-way location. Secure any loose wires with the provided cable ties.
Reinstall all items removed during installation and reconnect the negative battery terminal. Install the provided 4-flat dust cover to help prevent corrosion. Test for proper function by using a test light or connecting a properly wired trailer. All steps must be followed to ensure the wiring harness functions properly.
The harness includes a yellow wire end (routed to the driver side taillight), a green wire end (routed to the passenger side taillight), a white ground wire (secured to a grounding point near the connector using a ring terminal and provided screw), and a black power wire (routed from the vehicle battery as shown on the included CME-PCL-INS sheet). The black converter box is also part of the electrical assembly.
The battery connection must be fuse-protected with a 10-amp maximum fuse. Do not exceed this rating, as exceeding the product rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire.
Yes, the Curt 56320 is designed for Ford Escape vehicles (SUVs, Mini & Full-Sized Vans classification).
You need: 8mm and 10mm sockets, T-25 Torx bit, ratchet, panel trim removal tool, flat blade screwdriver, wire stripper, crimping tool, cutting tool, and pick tool. You will also need sealant (not provided).
Yes, disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting installation.
Yes. You must cut a slit in the grommet behind the taillight to route the wiring harness. You may also need to drill a 3/32" pilot hole for the grounding screw if no existing grounding point is available.
The battery connection must use a 10-amp maximum fuse. Do not exceed this rating as it can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire.
Signal Circuits: 3.0 amps per side. Tail/Running Circuits: 6.0 amps total. Do not exceed these ratings or your vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower.
Test for proper function by using a test light or connecting a properly wired trailer. All installation steps must be followed to ensure proper function.
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