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During the summer months, many of us look forward to putting a trailer or boat behind our Titan or Armada and heading out into the wilderness. However, some of us aren’t as dexterous with a trailer hitch as we could be, and this is a problem that should undoubtedly be addressed before you head out onto the open road. Here are a few trailer hitch installation tips, from your pals at Avondale Nissan!

Make sure you’ve got the right tools. The instructions of your trailer hitch will tell you exactly what tools you need, and this is no time to get creative. Simply assess what tools you’ll need, lay them out ahead of your install, and if there’s something that you don’t have, head to the hardware store before you begin. You’re trusting your trailer hitch to secure a large load, so don’t try to get cute with substitute tools.
Plan ahead and follow along with the instructions. When you’re installing a trailer hitch, remember that you might have to slightly move your exhaust or tailpipe to get your install just right, and they may be hot if you’ve been driving recently. Give ‘em time to cool. Additionally, read your instruction manual beforehand, and follow them to the letter. As with the first tip, no getting cute with the instructions.
Make sure it’s secure. Like we said, your trailer hitch is intended to pull large and cumbersome loads, and if your hitch isn’t secure, it really isn’t doing you any good. To properly secure your hitch, prop it up or use C-clamps to make it remain level during your install. You can also use thread-locking adhesive or lock nuts and washers, which help your hitch stay even more secure.
As with any automotive install, the most important advice is to follow instructions and double check your steps all through the process. We trust that these tips will help make your next towing experience safe and secure, and that you’ll come see us soon at Avondale Nissan!