Installing the OzHitch Receiver Bracket is a straightforward process that ensures your trailer is securely connected to your vehicle’s towbar. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process to safely and properly install the receiver bracket, ensuring a stable and reliable connection for all your towing needs.
Important: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety glasses during installation. If you’re unsure about any part of the process or lack the necessary tools, it’s recommended to consult or hire a professional for the installation.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- OzHitch Receiver Bracket with Bolt
- 2 side bolts (included in the kit)
- Wrench or socket set
- Torque wrench (for tightening bolts to the correct specification)
- Safety gear (gloves and safety glasses)
Bolt Torque Specifications:
- Towbar coupling adapter mounting bolt torque: 250Nm
Step 1: Prepare the Towbar
- Inspect the towbar: Before installing the receiver bracket, ensure that your vehicle’s towbar is clean and free of dirt, rust, or debris that could interfere with the installation.
- Align the receiver bracket: Position the OzHitch Receiver Bracket against the towbar, making sure the bolt holes on the bracket align with the towbar holes.
Step 2: Insert the Main Bolt
- Insert the main bolt through the receiver bracket and towbar.
- Hand-tighten the bolt to hold the receiver bracket in place before securing it fully.
Installation Tip: Bolt Orientation for Maximum Protection
When installing the receiver bracket, it’s a good idea to insert the bolt from underneath. The space inside the off-road trailer hitch around the hole is deep enough to allow the bolt’s stub to stick up, rather than hanging down.
There are two key benefits to this approach:
- Protection from Damage: The bolt thread is less likely to be damaged when traversing rough terrain, rocks, or coming off a barge ramp. With the bolt head positioned underneath, you avoid direct contact with obstacles.
- Improved Departure Angles: Inserting the bolt this way eliminates the risk of the bolt thread hanging low, giving you better clearance and departure angles when off-roading. This helps prevent the hitch from snagging or catching on uneven terrain.
By positioning the bolt upwards, you protect both the hitch and the bolt from unnecessary wear and tear.
Step 3: Secure the Side Bolts
- Insert the two side bolts provided in the kit through the holes on the side of the receiver bracket.
- Hand-tighten these bolts to ensure the bracket remains aligned.
- Once all bolts are in place, use a wrench or socket set to fully tighten the main bolt and side bolts, ensuring the receiver bracket is securely fastened to the towbar.
Step 4: Tighten the Bolts
- Using a torque wrench, tighten the main bolt and side bolts to the recommended torque specification, ensuring a strong and secure fit.
- Double-check that the receiver bracket is properly aligned and tightly fastened.
Step 5: Final Inspection
- Check for stability: Ensure that the OzHitch Receiver Bracket is aligned straight and firmly secured. There should be no movement or gaps between the bracket and the towbar.
- Test for secure fit: Attach your trailer to the receiver bracket and perform a light towing test to confirm that the bracket remains secure and the connection is solid.
Safety Tips:
- Always wear appropriate PPE (gloves and safety glasses) when working with tools and heavy components.
- Ensure that all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications to prevent any issues while towing.
- Periodically check the bolts and the receiver bracket for tightness and wear, especially after long trips or off-road adventures.
Need Assistance? Contact Us!
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to call us on (08) 8260 2277 or Contact Us here. We’re here to help ensure your OzHitch coupling is always performing at its best.
For more installation resources and tips, visit our Resources Page.
OzHitch: Built for the journey. Ready for every adventure.
