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2014 - 2018 Subaru Forester
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DRAW-TITE Class 2 trailer hitches are the perfect mix of style and stability for those times when youre working on a home project or heading out on an adventure. This DRAW-TITE Class 2 receiver hitch is rated for up to 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight (GTW) and up to 300 lbs. tongue weight (TW). No weight distribution kits can be used on this specific trailer hitch. DRAW-TITE hitches are designed to provide top towing performance, with solid-all-welded construction and a black powder coat finish to resist rust and corrosion. The Class 2 trailer hitch 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. Includes all the mounting hardware needed for installation and are backed by a nationwide lifetime limited warranty. DRAW-TITE trailer hitches are tested to exceed V-5 and SAE J684 standards. DRAW-TITE: North Americas Favorite Hitch.
| BRAND: | DRAW-TITE |
| PART NUMBER: | 36523 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 21 LBS |
| GROSS TOWING WEIGHT: | 3,500 LBS. |
| GROSS TONGUE WEIGHT: | 300 LBS. |
| RECEIVER SIZE: | 1.25 IN. |
| HITCH CLASS: | II |
| DRILLING REQUIRED: | YES |
| MOUNTING HARDWARE INCLUDED: | YES |
| ATTACHMENT LOCATION: | REAR |
| HITCH VISIBILITY: | VISIBLE |
| CROSS-TUBE TYPE: | SQUARE TUBE |
| BALL MOUNT INCLUDED: | NO |
| COLOR: | BLACK |
| FINISH: | BLACK POWDER COAT OVER E-COAT |
| MATERIAL: | STEEL |
| MOUNTING LOCATION: | VEHICLE FRAME |
| MOUNTING TYPE: | BOLT-ON |
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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1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 - 2018 | Subaru Forester | Class 2 Trailer Hitch: 3500 lbs 300/3,500 lbs. Weight Carrying (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) Drilling Required Install Time is 30 minutes |
The Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Square Receiver, Black for Select Subaru Forester 36523 (Part #DT36523) fits the following vehicles: 2014-2018 Subaru Forester. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Square Receiver, Black for Select Subaru Forester 36523 (Part #DT36523) is designed to fit the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester.
The Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Square Receiver, Black for Select Subaru Forester 36523 (Part #DT36523) fits 2014-2018 Subaru Forester models. The 2018 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Square Receiver, Black for Select Subaru Forester 36523 (Part #DT36523) Drilling is required for installation. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, part number 36523 is designed for the Subaru Forester. The manual covers installation for this vehicle. However, the manual specifically references 2013 and 2015 model years. If you have a different model year, contact the manufacturer to confirm fitment.
The maximum gross trailer weight is 3500 lb (1589 kg) and the maximum tongue weight is 300 lb (136 kg). However, you must not exceed the lower of this rating or your vehicle manufacturer's towing rating.
You will need: a ¾" wrench, a 10mm wrench, a 3/8" drill bit, and a metal file. The manual lists these as required equipment.
The kit includes: 6 carriage bolts (½-13 x 1.75 GR5), 6 hex nuts (½-13), 6 spacers (¼ x 1 x 3 with square hole for ½" carriage bolt), 6 pull wires (½"), and 6 conical washers (½"). All fasteners are Grade 5 and must be torqued to 75 lb-ft.
The manual does not specify whether the battery must be disconnected. Contact the manufacturer or a qualified installer for guidance on this step.
No. Step 1 of the installation requires you to lower the exhaust by disconnecting the rubber exhaust hanger(s) from the hanger bracket(s). This must be done before proceeding with hitch installation.
The heat shield must be removed in Step 2 (4 screws from the frame rail). The manual notes that once the hitch is installed, the heat shield will need to be discarded or trimmed to fit in position. It is then reinstalled in Step 7.
Yes. Step 4 requires you to use a 3/8" drill bit and metal file to modify the center hole in each frame rail to allow fishwiring of spacers and carriage bolts. The modification is shown in Figure 2 of the manual.
A 3/8" drill bit is required. This is used in Step 4 to modify the center hole in each frame rail to allow fishwiring of the spacers and carriage bolts.
No. The manual explicitly states: "Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch." Use a drill and file as specified in the installation steps.
Fishwiring is used to position the spacers and carriage bolts through the frame rails. Step 5 describes the process: insert the bolt and block into the frame through the modified access hole (Figure 4A), align the block on the access hole (Figure 4B), then pull the bolt through the block (Figure 4C). The pull wire should be kinked to keep the spacer independent of the bolt (Figure 3). Ensure blocks span both sides of the hole and do not overlap.
Six of each are included: 6 carriage bolts (½-13 x 1.75 GR5) and 6 spacers (¼ x 1 x 3). These are fishwired through the modified access holes and existing holes in both frame rails.
All ½-13 GR5 fasteners must be tightened to 75 lb-ft (102 N·m). This applies to both sides of the hitch installation.
The carriage bolts are ½-13 x 1.75 inches, Grade 5 (GR5). Six bolts are included in the kit.
Each spacer is ¼ x 1 x 3 inches with a square hole designed for the ½" carriage bolt. Six spacers are included.
Observe safety precautions when working beneath a vehicle and wear eye protection. Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch. After installation, check the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened. If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent entry of water and exhaust fumes.
After installation, verify that all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened. The manual recommends checking the hitch frequently during use to ensure fasteners remain tight.
The manual recommends checking the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened. No specific interval is provided; regular visual inspection before towing is advisable.
If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent entry of water and exhaust fumes.
A hitch or ball which has been damaged should be removed and replaced. Do not attempt to repair a damaged hitch.
Yes, hitch 36523 is designed for the Subaru Forester (2013, 2015 model years confirmed). Verify your specific model year with the manufacturer.
Maximum gross trailer weight is 3500 lb (1589 kg) and maximum tongue weight is 300 lb (136 kg). Do not exceed the lower of this rating or your vehicle manufacturer's rating.
You need: ¾" wrench, 10mm wrench, 3/8" drill bit, and metal file.
All ½-13 GR5 fasteners must be tightened to 75 lb-ft (102 N·m).
Yes. Step 1 requires disconnecting the rubber exhaust hanger(s) from the hanger bracket(s) and lowering the exhaust before proceeding.
Wear eye protection, observe safety precautions when working beneath the vehicle, and do not cut access holes with a torch. Check the hitch frequently after installation to ensure all fasteners are tight.
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Matt
Ordered online. Shipment arrived on time and with all the correct parts. Great customer service and friendly staff. Also, pricing was great!
May 22, 2023
Total for 5 items:
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