Installing your OzHitch 3500kg (3.5T) – 6 Bolt Off-Road Coupling is a straight forward process, ensuring your trailer or caravan is ready for safe and reliable towing. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the installation process, from preparing your tools to securely fitting the hitch.
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:
- 6-bolt OzHitch 3.5T Coupling
- Wrench or socket set (19mm spanners or sockets) for bolts
- Torque wrench (for tightening bolts to the correct specification)
- 6 x ½” UNC Grade 8.8 bolts with nyloc nuts
- Grease or lubricant
- Safety gear (gloves, safety glasses)
Bolt Torque Specifications:
- Coupling Bolt Torque: 90Nm
- Coupling Bolts: We recommend using 6x ½” x 2″ UNC grade 8.8 bolts with nyloc nuts; however, the bolt length may vary depending on the thickness of your drawbar plate and specific installation requirements.
Step 1: Prepare Your Trailer or Caravan
- Ensure your trailer’s drawbar is clean and free of rust. This will ensure a secure fit for the new coupling.
- Check the bolt hole dimensions on your trailer’s drawbar to confirm they match the OzHitch 6-hole pattern:
- Length: 184mm
- Width: 54mm
- Centre Holes: 76mm
If your trailer’s bolt holes don’t match this pattern, you may need to modify the drawbar or use an OzHitch Weld-On Mounting Plate.
Step 2: Align the OzHitch Coupling
- Place the OzHitch coupling on the trailer’s drawbar, ensuring the bolt holes on the coupling align with the holes on your trailer’s drawbar.
Step 3: Insert the Bolts
- Insert the 6 x ½” UNC Grade 8.8 bolts the holes in the coupling and drawbar.
- Thread the nyloc nuts onto the bolts by hand to hold everything in place.
Step 4: Tighten the Bolts
- Using your 19mm wrench or socket set, begin tightening the bolts in a crisscross pattern. This ensures even pressure and a secure fit.
- Once the bolts are snug, use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the correct torque setting of 90Nm for the coupling bolts. This prevents over-tightening or under-tightening, which could affect the security of your hitch.
Step 5: Lubricate the Coupling
- Apply grease or lubricant to the moving parts of the coupling, especially around the universal joint. This will ensure smooth operation and prevent wear over time.
- Make sure to also grease the bushes if they are part of your coupling, as this will reduce friction and prolong the life of the hitch.
Step 6: Test the Installation
- Visually inspect the coupling to ensure everything is properly tightened and aligned.
- Test the articulation of the OzHitch coupling to ensure smooth movement.
- Attach the trailer to your vehicle and conduct a short towing test in a safe area to ensure everything is functioning correctly and securely.
Step 7: Secure the Safety Pin
- Insert the safety pin through the coupling to prevent accidental disengagement during towing.
- If your OzHitch kit includes a locking mechanism, engage the lock to further secure the coupling.
Final Check:
Before hitting the road, double-check that:
- All bolts are tightened to the correct torque specification.
- The coupling is greased and moving smoothly.
- The safety pin is in place and locked.
Tips for Maintenance:
- Regularly grease the coupling and universal joint to maintain smooth operation.
- Periodically check the bolts and nuts to ensure they remain tight and secure.
- Inspect the coupling for wear or damage, especially after heavy off-road use.
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.
Happy towing!
