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These dependable custom hitches are manufactured for 2020-2023 Ford Explorer, 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator and attach to your vehicle?s frame or bumper for a sleek, clean appearance. Each hitch also has a 1-1/4 inch square receiver tube opening so you can easily attach accessories like a bike rack or cargo carrier, or a utility trailer. DRAW-TITE Class 2 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 and need a place for the cooler, taking the bikes to hit the trails in the park, or you are tackling a DIY project (maybe some landscaping or a home repair), 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 888-634-9494The 2020-2023 Ford Explorer Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4 Inch Square Receiver Bundle w/ Plug-n-Play T-One Wiring Harness (Part #DTB36787-118599) fits the following vehicles: 2008-2012 Ford Explorer. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The 2020-2023 Ford Explorer Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4 Inch Square Receiver Bundle w/ Plug-n-Play T-One Wiring Harness (Part #DTB36787-118599) fits 2008-2012 Ford Explorer models. The 2012 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the 2020-2023 Ford Explorer Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4 Inch Square Receiver Bundle w/ Plug-n-Play T-One Wiring Harness (Part #DTB36787-118599) is designed to fit the 2008-2012 Ford Explorer.
The 2020-2023 Ford Explorer Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4 Inch Square Receiver Bundle w/ Plug-n-Play T-One Wiring Harness (Part #DTB36787-118599) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes. Part numbers 36787, 06194, and CQT36787 are designed for 2020-Current Ford Explorer models. Visit the manufacturer's website for the most up-to-date information regarding specific application years and trim levels.
The 36787 is a weight-carrying hitch with 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 your towing vehicle manufacturer's rating or these limits.
Required tools include: ratchet, torque wrench, safety glasses, sockets (7mm, 10mm, 21mm), 6-inch socket extension, exhaust hanger removal pliers, marker, tape measure, tin snips, flat-head screwdriver, 1/4-inch drill bit, plastic rivet gun, and drill.
Fastener Kit 36787F includes: (2) carriage bolts ½-13x1.25" GR5, (2) spacers .250"x1"x3" (Part #3022), (2) conical washers 1/2" (Part #01292008), (2) hex nuts 1/2" GR5, (2) pullwires 1/2"-13 (Part #5482), and (4) rivets (Part #110269).
Yes. The exhaust must be lowered. Using a 10mm socket, remove the bolt from the exhaust hanger on the outboard side of the frame rail, push the hanger up and outward. Using exhaust hanger removal pliers, remove the rubber exhaust hanger near the rear differential. Be sure to support the exhaust to prevent damage. The exhaust is reinstalled after the hitch is mounted.
Underbody panel removal is conditional. If applicable, remove the underbody panel between the mufflers using an M7 socket and screwdriver to remove screws and plastic push rivets. The panel can be returned to the vehicle owner or trimmed to fit and reinstalled. Extensive trimming would be required.
Yes. If a kick sensor is present, you must use a 1/4-inch drill bit to remove the center (4) rivets holding the kick sensor in place. Additionally, you must cut a 1.5-inch hole forward of the forward attachment in the heat shield to clear the middle fastener for the hitch.
Yes, if applicable. Find the center of the fascia and trim the vehicle fascia per Figure 3. Dimensions are approximate: 5 inches on each side and 3.25 inches in the center. If a kick sensor is present, move it aside to avoid cutting during trimming.
Yes. Remove the heat shield using a 10mm socket to remove the nuts and a 7mm socket to remove the screw holding it to the wheel well liner. Cut a 1.5-inch hole forward of the forward attachment in the heat shield to clear the middle fastener for the hitch. The modified heat shield is then reinstalled over the hitch bracket.
Tighten all M16 fasteners with a torque wrench to 146 Ft.Lb. (198 N·M). Tighten all 1/2-inch fasteners to 75 Ft.Lb. (102 N·M). Proper torque is needed to keep the hitch secure to the vehicle when towing.
Install conical washers with the teeth side toward the hitch. The conical washers are part of the fastening assembly and must be oriented correctly to ensure proper clamping.
Pullwires (Part #5482) are supplied to help guide the carriage bolts and spacers through the vehicle frame during installation. Insert the carriage bolts and spacers into the vehicle frame through the forward attachment with pullwires attached. Guide the pullwire ends through holes in the hitch bracket to align the hitch properly, then remove the pullwires before installing the conical washers and nuts.
No. After aligning the hitch bracket holes to the frame rail weldnuts and guiding the pullwire ends through the hitch bracket holes, loosely reinstall the M16 bumper bolts removed in step 4. Remove the pullwires, install the conical washers and nuts, then tighten all M16 fasteners to 146 Ft.Lb. (198 N·M) with a torque wrench.
Before raising the hitch into position, make sure the weldnuts on the frame rail are free from rust and debris. This ensures proper fastener engagement and secure mounting.
Check the hitch frequently, making sure all fasteners and ball are properly tightened. Periodically verify that all fasteners are tight and the hitch is securely mounted to the vehicle. If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent entry of water and exhaust fumes.
Always wear safety glasses when installing the hitch. Observe safety precautions when working beneath a vehicle. Support the exhaust to prevent damage. Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch. If the hitch is damaged, it must be removed and replaced.
Load the trailer heavier in front. Do not exceed the lower of your towing vehicle manufacturer's rating or 3500 lb GVWR / 350 lb tongue weight. Always wear your seatbelt. Slow down when towing and never exceed any posted speed limit. If excess sway occurs, take your foot off the gas pedal and hold the steering wheel as steady as possible. Do not apply your brakes and do not speed up.
Check the hitch frequently, making sure all fasteners and ball are properly tightened. Periodically verify that all fasteners are tight and the hitch is securely mounted to the vehicle.
Yes, part numbers 36787, 06194, and CQT36787 fit 2020-Current Ford Explorer models. Check the manufacturer's website for the most current trim level information.
Maximum gross trailer weight is 3500 lb (1589 kg) and maximum tongue weight is 350 lb (159 kg). Do not exceed the lower of your vehicle manufacturer's rating or these limits.
Yes. You must drill out (4) kick sensor rivets with a 1/4-inch bit (if applicable), cut a 1.5-inch hole in the heat shield, and trim the fascia approximately 5 inches on each side and 3.25 inches in the center.
M16 fasteners: 146 Ft.Lb. (198 N·M). 1/2-inch fasteners: 75 Ft.Lb. (102 N·M). Use a torque wrench for all final tightening.
Yes. Remove the exhaust hanger bolt (10mm socket) on the outboard side of the frame rail, push the hanger up and outward, and remove the rubber hanger near the rear differential using exhaust hanger removal pliers. Support the exhaust to prevent damage.
Torque wrench, ratchet, sockets (7mm, 10mm, 21mm), safety glasses, 1/4-inch drill bit, drill, tin snips, exhaust hanger removal pliers, and plastic rivet gun.
Maximum tongue weight is 350 lb (159 kg). Do not exceed this limit or your vehicle manufacturer's rating, whichever is lower.
Yes, the T-Connector is designed for Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and Ford Explorer. Installation location varies by vehicle: on Taurus and MKS, the T-Connector attaches to the driver's side taillight wiring harness; on Explorer, it attaches to both driver and passenger side harnesses.
The T-Connector is a trailer wiring interface that taps into the vehicle's taillight wiring harness to provide trailer lighting connections. It includes a converter box that connects to the vehicle's battery via a fused power wire, allowing the vehicle's lighting system to control trailer lights.
Required tools: trim panel remover, 10 mm socket and ratchet (or 10 mm wrench), 7 mm socket and ratchet (or 7 mm wrench), Torx 25 driver, drill with 3/32" bit, 1/4" socket, wire crimpers, wire cutters, Phillips head screwdriver, and test probe.
The T-Connector includes: T-Connector harness with yellow, brown, green, and red wires; black converter box; white ground wire with eyelet; black 12 gauge power wire; yellow fuse holder with 10 amp fuse; yellow butt connector; cable ties; and double-sided tape for mounting the converter box.
Yes. Step 5 requires you to disconnect the vehicle's negative (-) battery cable before making any electrical connections. The battery is reconnected in Step 6 after the fuse holder is installed.
For Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS: open the trunk, remove the threshold panel, and partially remove the corner felt trunk liner on both sides to expose the taillight wiring harness. For Ford Explorer: open the rear hatch, temporarily remove the rear threshold plate, privacy screen, storage covers, and floor covering; open the rear door, fold the rear seat forward, and partially remove the rear interior trim panels on both driver and passenger sides.
1. Locate the taillight wiring harness on the driver's side and separate the connectors carefully without breaking the locking tabs. 2. Ensure the mating surfaces are clean and free of dirt. 3. Attach the T-Connector end containing yellow and brown wires to the driver's side. 4. Route the T-Connector containing the green wire below the threshold cover to the passenger's side and attach the end with green and red wires. Ensure all connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
1. Locate the taillight wiring harness on both driver and passenger sides and separate the connectors carefully without breaking the locking tabs. Ensure surfaces are clean. 2. On the driver's side, insert the T-Connector end with the yellow wire between the vehicle wiring connectors and lock into place. 3. Route the connector with the green wire down the threshold to the passenger side. 4. On the passenger's side, insert the T-Connector end with the green wire between the vehicle wiring connectors and lock into place. Ensure all connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
Mount the black converter box on a flat surface on the driver's side in an out-of-the-way location using the double-sided tape provided. The location should not interfere with vehicle operation or access.
Yes. You must drill a 3/32" hole on the driver's side near the connectors to secure the white ground wire with the eyelet and screw provided. Before drilling, verify what is behind the surface to avoid damage to the vehicle or personal injury. Do not drill into any exposed surfaces.
1. Locate the red 12 gauge power wire from the T-Connector box on the driver's side. 2. Attach the black 12 gauge wire provided to it. 3. Route the black wire either through a grommet and along the exterior frame, or follow existing wiring along the thresholds into the engine compartment up to the battery. Avoid areas that may pinch or break the wire. 4. Disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable. 5. Remove the fuse from the yellow fuse holder if not already removed. Cut the fuse holder wire, attach the ring terminal to the vehicle's positive battery cable, and connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black 12 gauge wire using the yellow butt connector. 6. Reconnect the negative battery cable and install the 10 amp fuse into the fuse holder.
The T-Connector uses a 10 amp fuse. This fuse is installed in the yellow fuse holder that connects the black 12 gauge power wire to the vehicle's positive battery cable.
The T-Connector harness includes: yellow wire (driver's side taillight connection on Taurus/MKS, or driver's side on Explorer), brown wire (driver's side on Taurus/MKS), green wire (passenger's side connection), red wire (passenger's side on Taurus/MKS), white wire (ground connection), and black wire (power connection to battery positive).
Always wear safety glasses during installation. Read and follow all warnings on the vehicle battery. Do not exceed the product's amperage rating or the towing manufacturer's rating stated in the vehicle owner's manual. Do not route wires through hot pipes, heat shields, fuel tank, or areas that may pinch or break the wire. Do not drill into exposed surfaces. Do not pinch the harness in the trunk latch. Secure all wires with cable ties to prevent damage or rattling.
After installation is complete, test and verify the installation with a test light or trailer. For the initial test, reset the vehicle electrical system by temporarily removing the key from the ignition. All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly before testing.
Secure the remainder of the T-Connector harness with the cable ties provided to prevent damage or rattling. Be careful to avoid any areas that would pinch, cut, or melt the wire. When reinstalling plastic trim panels, threshold, storage covers, and floor covering, be careful not to pinch or cut the wires. On Taurus and MKS, route the 4-flat connector through the driver's side trim panel into the side storage compartment and store it there when not in use.
Before connecting, ensure that the mating surfaces of the vehicle harness connectors match the T-Connector ends. All connector surfaces should be clean and free of dirt. Separate the vehicle's taillight connectors carefully without breaking the locking tabs.
Locate a suitable grounding point on the driver's side near the connectors. Drill a 3/32" hole at this location and secure the white wire with the eyelet using the screw provided. Do not drill into any exposed surfaces. Verify what is behind the surface before drilling to avoid damage to the vehicle.
Yes, the T-Connector (118599-037) is designed for Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and Ford Explorer. Installation location varies: driver's side for Taurus/MKS, both sides for Explorer.
You need: trim panel remover, 10 mm and 7 mm sockets/wrenches, Torx 25 driver, 3/32" drill bit, 1/4" socket, wire crimpers, wire cutters, Phillips screwdriver, and test probe.
Yes, disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before making electrical connections. Reconnect it after the fuse holder is installed.
The T-Connector uses a 10 amp fuse installed in the yellow fuse holder provided.
Do not exceed the product's amperage rating or the towing manufacturer's rating in your vehicle owner's manual. Overloading circuits can cause fires. Wear safety glasses during installation.
Verify that all connections are complete. The manual states: 'All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly.' Check that: (1) both T-Connector ends are fully inserted into the taillight harness connectors with locking tabs in place, (2) the white ground wire is securely fastened with the eyelet and screw, (3) the black power wire is properly connected to the red power wire from the converter box, (4) the ring terminal is securely attached to the vehicle's positive battery cable, (5) the yellow butt connector properly joins the fuse holder to the black 12 gauge wire, and (6) the 10 amp fuse is installed in the fuse holder. Reset the vehicle electrical system by temporarily removing the ignition key.
1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 - 2012 | Ford Explorer | — |
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