Draw-Tite Hitch Install - W/ Pics

[billy bronco]

I used a UHAUL hitch on both my 2004 & 2006, managed to get in without lowering the exhaust like directions call for, took 20 minutes to install.

[HuskyFan]

Originally posted by ToddEichel
Now you need to remove a bracket on the cross member just behind the rear differential, two bolts, both 12mm again. No problem.

I just installed a Valley hitch and the instructions to lower the exhaust were as shown in this thread except the bracket on the crossmember wasn't removed, just loosened enough to allow the hitch to slide over the exhaust pipes. Keeping this bracket attached keeps the muffler off the ground so you dont need to support the muffler.

[dfw310]

Good job on posting pics and instructions on hitch! Can you please confirm that the receiver is flush with bumper and does not extend beyond the bumper when viewed from side or top...I want to avoid banging my shin. I've done a little research and contacted the local Nissan shop who wanted to sell a hitch, support bar and modified bumper for $500ish...your hitch looks great and under $200 sounds good! I am only planning on hauling a motorcycle at most.
Do you mind sharing your experience with the wiring harness? The local dealer sells the genuine Nissan harness for $99 which seems competitive to other online pricing for that companies recommendation or OEM harness....those prices have ranged from $80 to $129. Thanks! David

[BikerJohn]

I would recommend the OEM wiring. It comes complete with fusing and regulator. The receiver does sit in from the bumper and as long as you don't have the ball on the hitch; you;ll be fine. I went with a Curt hitch made for the MO. Paid $75 for it and it came with all the bolts needed for mounting.

[kitesurf]

Installed an aftermarket hitch with this threads help - thanks again.

One problem - rust - midwest hitch looking bad type rust.

Has anyone sanded down a hitch install and repainted it? A friend of mine did it on his 4Runner and it looked great - I forgot to ask him what paint he used.

Any help is appreciated.

[MNMurray]

I installed mine this weekend, went pretty smooth with the help of everyone here, many thanks...

one issue we ran into was getting the frame bolts started. its an 04 and lots of MN winters really did a number on the frame threads. Had to get a tap to clean out the threads. Wasn't easy to find. for reference, the tap size is M12 x 1.25 40 . ACE hardware is the only place we can find it. As the MO's get older im sure we won't be the last to have this problem.