Installing a trailer hitch on your Dodge Journey is a surprisingly straightforward DIY project that can significantly expand its utility, allowing you to tow small trailers, bike racks, and cargo carriers. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process, empowering you to confidently complete the installation in your own driveway.
Why Install a Trailer Hitch Yourself?
While professional installation is always an option, installing a trailer hitch yourself can save you significant money. The labor costs at a shop can easily double the total price, making the DIY route highly appealing, especially considering the relatively simple nature of the task on a Dodge Journey. Furthermore, it offers the satisfaction of knowing you’ve personally enhanced your vehicle’s capabilities.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything readily available will streamline the process and prevent frustrating delays.
- Trailer Hitch: Choose a hitch specifically designed for your Dodge Journey’s model year. Class III hitches are common for this vehicle, offering a good balance of towing capacity. Research reputable brands like Curt, Draw-Tite, and Reese.
- Socket Wrench Set: A standard socket set, preferably with metric sizes, is essential. A 19mm socket is usually required for the hitch bolts.
- Torque Wrench: This is crucial for tightening the hitch bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque. Overtightening can damage the hitch or the vehicle’s frame.
- Extension: A socket extension will help you reach recessed bolts.
- Spray Lubricant (Penetrating Oil): This can loosen stubborn bolts, especially if your vehicle is older or has seen harsh weather conditions. WD-40 Specialist Penetrant is recommended.
- Safety Glasses: Protecting your eyes is paramount.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Jack Stands (Optional): While not always necessary, jack stands can provide extra clearance and stability, making the job easier.
- Wiring Harness (If Required): If you plan to tow a trailer with lights, you’ll need a wiring harness. Choose one specifically designed for the Dodge Journey.
- Fish Wire (If Required): Some hitches might require you to fish bolts through the frame.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful and safe installation.
1. Preparation
- Park your Dodge Journey on a level surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Consult the instructions included with your specific trailer hitch. These instructions will provide crucial details and torque specifications.
- (Optional) Use jack stands to lift the rear of the vehicle, providing more working room. Ensure the vehicle is securely supported.
2. Locate Mounting Points
- Identify the existing mounting holes on the vehicle’s frame. These are typically located on the underside of the rear of the vehicle, near the bumper.
- Clean the mounting holes with a wire brush to remove any dirt or rust. This will ensure a solid connection.
- Spray penetrating oil on any bolts that appear corroded.
3. Install the Trailer Hitch
- Position the trailer hitch so that its mounting holes align with the mounting points on the vehicle’s frame. This often requires two people, as the hitch can be heavy and awkward to maneuver.
- Insert the provided bolts through the hitch and into the mounting holes. If your hitch requires fishing bolts through the frame, use the provided fish wire to guide them into place.
- Hand-tighten the bolts initially.
4. Torque the Bolts
- This is the most critical step. Using your torque wrench, tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque. This information is crucial and will be found in the hitch installation instructions. Torque in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure.
- Double-check all bolts to confirm they are properly torqued.
5. Install the Wiring Harness (If Applicable)
- Refer to the instructions included with your wiring harness. The Dodge Journey typically requires a T-connector harness, which plugs into the existing taillight wiring.
- Route the wiring harness along the frame, securing it with zip ties to prevent it from dragging on the ground.
- Connect the wiring to the trailer connector, usually a 4-way or 7-way connector.
6. Final Inspection
- Visually inspect the entire installation. Ensure all bolts are properly torqued, the wiring harness is securely routed, and the trailer hitch is properly seated against the vehicle’s frame.
- Test the wiring harness by connecting it to a trailer or using a test light. Verify that all lights (running lights, brake lights, turn signals) are functioning correctly.
Congratulations!
You have successfully installed a trailer hitch on your Dodge Journey. Remember to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for towing capacity limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What is the towing capacity of a Dodge Journey with a trailer hitch?
The towing capacity of a Dodge Journey varies depending on the engine, drivetrain (FWD or AWD), and model year. Generally, it ranges from 1,000 to 2,500 pounds. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and the hitch manufacturer’s specifications for the accurate towing capacity. Exceeding the towing capacity can be dangerous and can damage your vehicle.
FAQ 2: What class of trailer hitch should I get for my Dodge Journey?
A Class III trailer hitch is typically recommended for the Dodge Journey. Class III hitches offer a good balance of towing capacity (up to 6,000 pounds gross trailer weight) and are suitable for towing smaller trailers, bike racks, and cargo carriers.
FAQ 3: Do I need to install a wiring harness when installing a trailer hitch?
If you plan to tow a trailer with lights (running lights, brake lights, turn signals), yes, you need to install a wiring harness. This harness connects to your vehicle’s electrical system and provides the necessary signals to the trailer lights.
FAQ 4: What type of wiring harness is best for a Dodge Journey?
A T-connector wiring harness is the most common and easiest to install on a Dodge Journey. These harnesses plug directly into the existing taillight wiring, eliminating the need for cutting or splicing wires.
FAQ 5: How do I know if the bolts are torqued correctly?
Use a torque wrench set to the manufacturer’s specified torque. The torque specification will be listed in the trailer hitch installation instructions. Tighten the bolts until the torque wrench “clicks,” indicating that the specified torque has been reached.
FAQ 6: Can I install a trailer hitch if I don’t have any mechanical experience?
While some mechanical aptitude is helpful, installing a trailer hitch on a Dodge Journey is generally considered a relatively simple DIY project. By following the instructions carefully and having the right tools, most people can complete the installation successfully. If you’re unsure, consider seeking professional assistance.
FAQ 7: What if I can’t find the mounting holes on my vehicle?
The mounting holes are typically located on the underside of the vehicle’s frame, near the rear bumper. Consult your trailer hitch installation instructions for specific locations. If the holes are covered in rust or undercoating, you may need to use a wire brush or scraper to expose them. Refer to a diagram of your vehicle’s frame if necessary.
FAQ 8: What happens if I overtighten the bolts?
Overtightening the bolts can damage the hitch or the vehicle’s frame. It can also strip the threads, making it difficult to remove the bolts later. Always use a torque wrench and follow the manufacturer’s specified torque.
FAQ 9: How do I maintain my trailer hitch after installation?
Regularly inspect the trailer hitch for signs of rust or damage. Clean the hitch with soap and water and apply a rust inhibitor to prevent corrosion. Periodically check the torque of the bolts to ensure they are still tight.
FAQ 10: Can I install a trailer hitch without lifting the vehicle?
Yes, it’s possible to install a trailer hitch without lifting the vehicle, but it may be more difficult. Lifting the vehicle with jack stands provides more clearance and makes it easier to access the mounting points. Ensure the vehicle is safely supported if you choose to lift it.
FAQ 11: Where can I purchase a trailer hitch for my Dodge Journey?
You can purchase trailer hitches for your Dodge Journey from various retailers, including online auto parts stores, local auto parts stores, and trailer supply stores. Some reputable online retailers include etrailer.com and Amazon.
FAQ 12: What should I do if a bolt breaks during installation?
If a bolt breaks during installation, do not attempt to drive the vehicle. You will need to extract the broken bolt and replace it. This may require specialized tools and expertise. Consult a professional mechanic or auto body shop if you are not comfortable extracting the broken bolt yourself. It’s crucial to replace all bolts with new, high-strength bolts of the correct size and grade.