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1997 - 2004 Dodge Dakota
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Complete CURT Class 3 2" trailer hitch and 4-flat custom wiring kit engineered for the 1997 - 2004 Dodge Dakota. 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 Dodge Dakota (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.
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 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, 3500 and Dakota (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 |
|---|---|---|
| 1997 - 2004 | Dodge Dakota | — |
The 97 - 03 Dodge Dakota Curt 2", Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 13280 (Part #CHW-783) fits 1997-2003 Dodge Dakota models. The 2003 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the 97 - 03 Dodge Dakota Curt 2", Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 13280 (Part #CHW-783) is designed to fit the 1997-2003 Dodge Dakota.
The 97 - 03 Dodge Dakota Curt 2", Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 13280 (Part #CHW-783) fits the following vehicles: 1997-2003 Dodge Dakota. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The 97 - 03 Dodge Dakota Curt 2", Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 13280 (Part #CHW-783) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The hitch weight is 36 lbs.
Yes, Curt part number 13280 is designed for 1987–2004 Dakota Pickup models.
When used as a weight-carrying hitch, the gross load capacity is 5,000 lbs. trailer weight and 500 lbs. tongue weight.
When used as a weight-distribution hitch, the gross load capacity is 8,000 lbs. trailer weight and 800 lbs. tongue weight.
Yes. Periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure that all fasteners are tight and that all structural components are sound.
The kit includes: four 1/2-13 UNC 1-3/4" grade 8 bolts (part 10-10272), four 1/2-13 UNC grade 8 serrated flange nuts (part 20-00062), four 0.250 x 1.50 x 2.00" square hole spacers (part CM-SP1), two 7/16-14 UNC 1-1/2" grade 8 bolts (part 10-10282), and two 7/16-14 UNC grade 8 serrated flange nuts (part 20-00103).
Drilling is required for 1995 and earlier models, and for 1996 models. For 1997 and later models, the hitch aligns with existing holes and no drilling is required.
A 1/2" drill bit is required. For 1995 and earlier models, drill two holes into the bottom of each frame rail using the side bracket of the receiver as a template.
A 1/2" drill bit is required. For 1996 models, drill the forward attachment hole into the bottom of each frame rail using the side bracket of the receiver as a template.
A 1/2" drill bit is required for 1995 and earlier and 1996 models. A socket set or wrench set to tighten 1/2" and 7/16" fasteners is needed. A torque wrench is required to achieve the specified torque values of 110 lb.-ft. for 1/2" fasteners and 70 lb.-ft. for 7/16" fasteners.
All 1/2" fasteners must be torqued to 110 lb.-ft.
All 7/16" fasteners must be torqued to 70 lb.-ft.
Yes. Remove the rearmost bolt at the end of the frame on both sides. Note: On some models, the two rearmost bolts are connected with a plate. If so, remove and cut the plate midway between the bolts, discard the rearmost bolt, and reinstall the other.
1) Remove the rearmost bolt at the end of the frame on both sides (cut any connecting plate midway and discard the rearmost bolt). 2) Position the hitch and install 7/16" fasteners. 3) For 1995 and earlier models, drill two holes per side using the side bracket as a template; for 1996 models, drill the forward attachment hole per side; for 1997 and later, align with existing holes. 4) Install remaining 1/2" fasteners. 5) Torque all 1/2" fasteners to 110 lb.-ft. and all 7/16" fasteners to 70 lb.-ft.
The exhaust hanger may need to be repositioned during installation. Check clearance after positioning the hitch.
Do not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity. The hitch capacity ratings are 5,000 lbs. trailer weight and 500 lbs. tongue weight for weight-carrying use, or 8,000 lbs. trailer weight and 800 lbs. tongue weight for weight-distribution use, but your vehicle's manufacturer limit may be lower.
Yes, the Curt 13280 is designed for 1987–2004 Dakota Pickup models.
Drilling is required for 1995 and earlier and 1996 models using a 1/2" bit. 1997 and later models use existing holes and require no drilling.
A 1/2" drill bit (for 1995–1996 models), socket or wrench set for 1/2" and 7/16" fasteners, and a torque wrench are required.
Torque all 1/2" fasteners to 110 lb.-ft. and all 7/16" fasteners to 70 lb.-ft.
Weight-carrying: 5,000 lbs. trailer, 500 lbs. tongue. Weight-distribution: 8,000 lbs. trailer, 800 lbs. tongue. Do not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
Yes, periodically check that all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound.
Yes, the Curt 55329 is designed for Dodge Dakota pickup trucks. The harness connects to your vehicle's existing taillight wiring connectors and routes a 4-flat connector to the center of the vehicle for trailer use.
Yes, the Curt 55329 is compatible with Dodge Ram 1500 pickup trucks. Installation involves connecting the harness to your vehicle's taillight wiring connectors.
The Curt 55329 is compatible with Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, but only if your vehicle has a factory 7-way connector. If your Ram does not have this factory connector, this harness will not be compatible.
The Curt 55329 is a custom wiring harness that integrates with your vehicle's taillight wiring to provide a 4-flat trailer connector. It allows you to connect a trailer to your Dodge pickup truck while using the vehicle's existing lighting system.
1. Locate your vehicle's taillight wiring harness connectors. 2. Carefully separate the connectors from the taillight housing without damaging the locking tabs. 3. Insert the custom harness end with the yellow wire between the separated connectors, ensuring they are fully inserted with locking tabs in place. 4. Route the harness end with the green wire to the passenger side behind the removed scuff panels and repeat steps 1–3 on that side. 5. Route the 4-flat connector to the center of the vehicle and out of the trunk when in use; roll up and store inside the trunk when not in use. 6. Secure loose wires with the provided cable ties. 7. Reinstall all removed items and install the provided 4-flat dust cover.
Yes. During installation, you must remove scuff panels to route the harness end with the green wire to the passenger side. These panels must be reinstalled after the harness is routed.
The yellow wire end of the custom wiring harness is inserted between the separated taillight connectors on the driver side of the vehicle during installation.
The green wire end of the custom wiring harness is routed to the passenger side of the vehicle behind the removed scuff panels and is inserted between the separated taillight connectors on that side.
When not in use, roll up the 4-flat connector and store it in a convenient, out-of-the-way location inside the trunk. When you need to use it, route it to the center of the vehicle and out of the trunk.
The provided cable ties are used to secure any loose wires during installation to keep them organized and prevent them from moving around.
The provided 4-flat dust cover is installed after the harness is fully set up to help prevent corrosion of the 4-flat connector.
Do not exceed the product rating or your tow vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower. Exceeding the rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating, and potential fire. Check your vehicle owner's manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for your specific lamp load rating.
After installation, test for proper function by using a test light or by connecting a properly wired trailer. All steps must be followed to ensure the wiring harness functions properly.
The connectors are fully inserted when the locking tabs are in place. Take care during insertion to ensure the locking tabs engage properly and the connectors seat completely.
Before drilling or working on any part of the installation, check for miscellaneous items that may be hidden behind or under any surface to avoid damage and personal injury.
Dodge Dakota, Dodge Ram 1500, and Dodge Ram 2500/3500 with factory 7-way connector.
Do not exceed the product rating or your tow vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower. Exceeding the rating can cause overheating and potential fire.
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