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2001 - 2003 Ford Escape
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These durable custom hitches are manufactured for 2001-2004 Ford Escape, 2001-2004 Mazda Tribute and attach to your vehicle?s frame or bumper for a sleek, clean appearance. Each hitch also has a 2 inch square receiver tube opening ? the most common and versatile on the market - allowing you to attach accessories like a bike rack or cargo carrier, or hook up your pop-up, boat trailer, or utility trailer. The options are endless! DRAW-TITE Class 3 Custom Trailer Hitches come complete with all the mounting hardware needed for installation and are backed by a nationwide lifetime limited warranty. So, whether you are headed out to the campground, the lake, or the bike trails, or you are tackling a project at home and need to haul the materials home, choose DRAW-TITE and travel with confidence knowing your setup is connected with the security only DRAW-TITE can provide. DRAW-TITE: North America?s Favorite Hitch
Draw-Tite has designed custom-fit trailer hitches since 1946 and is one of North America's most widely fitted hitch brands. Receiver hitches use solid all-welded construction and low-profile designs that follow modern vehicle contours, install with minimal bumper cutting or drilling, meet or exceed V5 CSA and SAE J684 standards, and carry a limited lifetime warranty.
Draw-Tite has been leading custom-fit trailer hitch design and engineering since its founding in 1946, and it remains one of the most widely fitted hitch brands in North America. The company's stated approach is straightforward: every hitch is tested rigorously so that it performs well beyond published industry standards, a philosophy it markets as Tested Tough. It sits within the Horizon Global towing group alongside Reese, Fulton, Bulldog, Tekonsha, Bargman and Wesbar.
Custom fit is the defining characteristic. Rather than adapting a universal design, Draw-Tite engineers a trailer hitch for a specific make, model and model year, so it bolts to existing frame locations with minimal bumper cutting or drilling. Low-profile designs follow the rear contours and aerodynamic styling of modern vehicles, which matters more than it once did now that rear fascias are shaped and sensor-equipped. Construction is solid all-welded steel for maximum strength, and every hitch meets or exceeds V5 CSA and SAE J684 standards and is backed by a nationwide limited lifetime warranty.
The range spans receiver sizes and classes to suit different loads, from 1-1/4 inch receivers for bike racks, cargo carriers and light trailers up through 2 inch receivers for heavier towing. Front mount hitches add a receiver at the front of the vehicle for winch mounts, snow plows, spare carriers and precise trailer positioning.
The Hidden Hitch series takes concealment further by mounting behind the vehicle's rear fascia, so the vehicle keeps its factory appearance until a removable receiver is fitted. Each is custom designed per make and model for a no-drill installation that does not compromise ground clearance, rated for up to 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight and 350 pounds tongue weight. Matching plug-and-play wiring completes the towing system.
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Call 888-634-94941 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 - 2003 | Ford Escape | — |
The 2001-2003 Ford Escape Draw-tite Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver Bundle w/ Plug-n-Play T-One Wiring Harness (Part #DTB75118-118343) fits 2001-2003 Ford Escape models. The 2003 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The 2001-2003 Ford Escape Draw-tite Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver Bundle w/ Plug-n-Play T-One Wiring Harness (Part #DTB75118-118343) fits the following vehicles: 2001-2003 Ford Escape. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the 2001-2003 Ford Escape Draw-tite Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver Bundle w/ Plug-n-Play T-One Wiring Harness (Part #DTB75118-118343) is designed to fit the 2001-2003 Ford Escape.
The 2001-2003 Ford Escape Draw-tite Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver Bundle w/ Plug-n-Play T-One Wiring Harness (Part #DTB75118-118343) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes. Part numbers 75118, 87635, 44723, 70636, and 78219 are designed for Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute vehicles. The hitch is available in two installation configurations: standard frame-mounted installation and optional installation with existing OEM Class 2 integrated hitch/bumper.
Yes, the hitch is compatible with 2002 and earlier models. However, you must remove the heat shield before installation. The heat shield is then trimmed and reinstalled after the hitch is mounted.
The hitch has two capacity ratings depending on the type used: Weight Distributing hitch supports a maximum gross trailer weight of 5000 lb (2270 kg) and maximum tongue weight of 500 lb (227 kg). Weight Carrying Ball Mount supports a maximum gross trailer weight of 3500 lb (1589 kg) and maximum tongue weight of 350 lb (159 kg). Do not exceed the lower of the towing vehicle manufacturer's rating or these hitch limits.
For standard frame-mounted installation: tin snips, wrenches (10mm, 11/16", 18mm), and a torque wrench. For optional installation with existing OEM Class 2 integrated hitch/bumper: the same tools plus drill bits (7/16" and ½"). No drilling is required for standard installation.
For standard frame-mounted installation, fastener kit F75118 includes: 6 carriage bolts 7/16-14 x 1¾ GR5, 6 hex nuts 7/16-14, 6 spacer blocks ¼" x 1 x 3, 1 hex bolt M6 x 1.00 x 20mm CL8.8, 6 conical toothed washers 7/16", and 1 flat washer ¼". For optional OEM hitch installation, the kit includes 2 carriage bolts 7/16-14 x 1¾ GR5, 1 hex bolt M6 x 1.00 x 20mm CL8.8, 2 spacer blocks ¼" x 1 x 3, 1 flat washer ¼", 2 conical toothed washers 7/16", 4 hex bolts M12 x 1.75 x 45mm CL10.9, 2 hex nuts 7/16-14, and 4 conical toothed washers ½".
Heat shield removal is required only on 2002 and earlier models. For 2003 and later models, the heat shield does not need to be removed. After hitch installation, the heat shield is trimmed and reinstalled using existing fasteners, except over the hitch bracket where a new M6 hex bolt and flat washer (supplied with the hitch) are used.
1. Remove heat shield on 2002 and earlier models. 2. Fishwire carriage bolts and spacer blocks through the access hole in the frame end, keeping them independent of each other. 3. Raise hitch into position and install conical toothed washers and hex nuts. 4. Trim heat shield as shown in Figure 2. 5. Reinstall heat shield using existing fasteners, except over hitch bracket use new M6 hex bolt and flat washer. 6. Tighten all fasteners to specified torque values.
No. Standard frame-mounted installation requires no drilling. The hitch uses existing frame access holes and fastens through the frame using fishwire and carriage bolts. Drilling is only required if you choose the optional installation method with an existing OEM Class 2 integrated hitch/bumper, which requires 7/16" and ½" drill bits.
The heat shield must be trimmed as shown in Figure 2. For 2002 and earlier models, trim a ¾" wide slot and notch the area as indicated. The dimensions are 11¼" (286 mm) length, 3¾" (95 mm) width, and 2" (51 mm) height. Use tin snips to perform the trimming. This modification is permanent.
Using the hitch as a template, drill a 7/16" hole through the center attachment slot at a slight angle towards the center of the vehicle. Then lower the aftermarket hitch and open the 7/16" hole to ½". Additionally, open a 5/8" x 15/16" slot forward of the foremost bolt hole to accept a 1" x 3" spacer block. Drill bits required: 7/16" and ½".
All 7/16-14 GR5 carriage bolts must be tightened with a torque wrench to 50 Lb.-Ft. (68 N*M). This applies to both standard frame-mounted installation and optional OEM hitch installation.
The M6 x 1.00 CL8.8 hex bolt used to secure the heat shield over the hitch bracket must be tightened with a torque wrench to 10 Lb.-Ft. (14 N*M).
All M12 x 1.75 CL10.9 hex bolts must be tightened with a torque wrench to 75 Lb.-Ft. (102 N*M). These bolts are used only in the optional installation with existing OEM Class 2 integrated hitch/bumper.
Fishwire is a technique for threading carriage bolts and spacer blocks through the frame access hole. The bolts and blocks must be kept independent of each other during this process (see Figure 3). The fishwire is kinked to keep the spacer block separate from the bolt, allowing both to pass through the frame access hole and be positioned correctly before the hitch is raised into place.
Keeping the carriage bolts and spacer blocks independent during fishwiring ensures they can be properly threaded through the frame access hole separately. The fishwire is kinked to maintain this separation (Figure 3). This allows both components to be positioned correctly in the frame before the hitch is raised into position and fasteners are tightened.
Be careful not to push fasteners back into the frame when raising the hitch into position. This warning applies when installing conical toothed washers and hex nuts during step 3 of installation.
1. Remove heat shield on 2002 and earlier models. 2. Raise hitch and loosely install hex bolts into existing weldnuts. 3. Using hitch as template, drill 7/16" hole through center attachment slot at slight angle toward vehicle center. 4. Lower hitch and open 7/16" hole to ½". 5. Open 5/8" x 15/16" slot forward of foremost bolt hole for 1" x 3" block. 6. Fishwire block and carriage bolt through access hole into drilled hole. 7. Raise hitch using new fasteners. 8. Tighten all fasteners to specified torque. 9. Trim heat shield. 10. Reinstall heat shield with new M6 bolt over bracket.
Observe safety precautions when working beneath the vehicle and wear eye protection. Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch. A damaged hitch or ball must be removed and replaced immediately. Check the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and ball are properly tightened.
Check the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and ball are properly tightened. Verify that all 7/16-14 GR5 fasteners are tightened to 50 Lb.-Ft. (68 N*M), M6 fasteners to 10 Lb.-Ft. (14 N*M), and M12 fasteners (if applicable) to 75 Lb.-Ft. (102 N*M). Inspect the hitch ball for damage and replace if necessary.
If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent entry of water and exhaust fumes. This prevents corrosion and contamination of the vehicle interior.
A hitch or ball which has been damaged should be removed and replaced immediately. Do not continue to use a damaged hitch or ball for towing.
Yes, part numbers 75118, 87635, 44723, 70636, and 78219 fit Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute vehicles. Two installation methods are available: standard frame-mounted and optional with existing OEM Class 2 integrated hitch/bumper.
Standard installation requires: tin snips, wrenches (10mm, 11/16", 18mm), and a torque wrench. Optional OEM hitch installation also requires 7/16" and ½" drill bits.
No. Standard frame-mounted installation requires no drilling. Drilling is only required for optional installation with existing OEM Class 2 integrated hitch/bumper.
7/16-14 GR5 carriage bolts: 50 Lb.-Ft. (68 N*M). M6 x 1.00 CL8.8 heat shield bolt: 10 Lb.-Ft. (14 N*M). M12 x 1.75 CL10.9 bolts (optional OEM installation only): 75 Lb.-Ft. (102 N*M). Use a torque wrench for all fasteners.
Weight Distributing: 5000 lb gross trailer weight, 500 lb tongue weight. Weight Carrying Ball Mount: 3500 lb gross trailer weight, 350 lb tongue weight. Do not exceed the lower of the vehicle manufacturer's rating or these limits.
Wear eye protection when working beneath the vehicle. Do not cut holes with a torch. Check fasteners and ball frequently for tightness. Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately. If removed, plug all holes to prevent water and exhaust fume entry.
This unit is rated for 4 amps per circuit.
The manual does not specify which vehicle makes, models, or years are compatible with this product. Contact the manufacturer or your retailer with your vehicle's year, make, and model to confirm fitment before purchasing.
The manual does not specify whether battery disconnection is required. Consult the manufacturer or a qualified installer before beginning work.
The manual does not list specific tools required for installation. You will need a test light or trailer to test the installation after completion (step 7). Consult the manufacturer for a complete tool list.
The manual does not state whether professional installation is required or recommended. Given the wiring work and interior trim removal involved, contact the manufacturer or a qualified installer if you are unsure of your ability to complete the installation safely.
You must remove both tail light assemblies, partially remove the rear interior plastic trim panel on the left (driver's) side, open the vehicle's jack storage compartment, and remove the threshold cover plate between the rear doors. These removals expose the openings needed to route the T-connector harness and access the tail light wiring connectors.
The T-connector has four wires: red, green, yellow, and the vehicle's factory harness. The red wire connects to the vehicle's center black wiring harness connector from the tail light assembly. The green wire connects to the vehicle's top grey wiring harness connector from the tail light assembly. The yellow wire also connects to the vehicle's center black wiring harness connector (repeated connection). Route the green and red wires from the passenger side through the tail light opening; route the yellow wire across the vehicle under the threshold cover.
Disconnect the vehicle's center black wiring harness connector from the tail light assembly, being careful not to damage the locking tabs. Plug the T-connector's harness containing the red wire between the two separated halves of the factory connector.
Disconnect the vehicle's top grey wiring harness connector from the tail light assembly, being careful not to break the locking tabs. Plug the T-connector's harness containing the green wire between the two separated halves of the factory connector.
Route the yellow wire across the vehicle under the threshold cover that was removed in step 2. Route the T-connector's harness containing the yellow wire out from inside the vehicle through the bottom of the tail light opening. Then connect it to the vehicle's center black wiring harness connector using the same method as the red wire (step 4).
Route the T-connector's harness ends containing the green and red wires from the passenger side out from inside the vehicle through the tail light opening.
Tuck the yellow wire under the threshold panel and secure it. Then reinstall the plastic trim panels, jack storage panel, and tail lights.
Test the installation with a test light or trailer (step 7). This verifies that the wiring connections are correct and the adapter is functioning properly before reassembling all trim panels and tail lights.
When disconnecting the vehicle's center black wiring harness connector, be careful not to damage the locking tabs. When disconnecting the top grey wiring harness connector, be careful not to break the locking tabs. These tabs secure the connectors and damage may prevent proper reconnection.
The manual does not specify compatible vehicles. Contact the manufacturer or retailer with your vehicle's year, make, and model to confirm fitment.
Remove both tail light assemblies, partially remove the rear interior plastic trim panel on the driver's side, open the jack storage compartment, and remove the threshold cover plate between the rear doors.
Red wire connects to the vehicle's center black connector; green wire connects to the vehicle's top grey connector; yellow wire also connects to the center black connector. Route green and red from the passenger side; route yellow across the vehicle under the threshold cover.
Test with a test light or trailer (step 7) before reassembling trim panels and tail lights.
4 amps per circuit.
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