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FITS 2024 Ford Explorer
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
CURT

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

In Stock
$212.53
Retail:$329.95
You Save: $117.42
Trailer Hitch
Confirmed to Fit
2024 Ford Explorer

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Call etrailer.com at 1-800-940-8924 for expert service. We are your Ford trailer hitch experts, and offer a great price. etrailer.com carries a complete line of CURT products for your Ford Explorer 2024. Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" part CU78FR from CURT can be ordered online at etrailer.com. Complete trailer hitch installation instructions and technical support.
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  • Reviews (99)
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2024 Ford Explorer - Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

Highlights

  • Custom Fit Design: Engineered specifically for your vehicle for a seamless look.
  • Robust Construction: Welded steel offers a 6,000 lbs GTW and 600 lbs TW capacity.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Gloss black powder coat finish ensures superior rust protection.
  • Easy Bolt-On Installation: No need for welding; includes hardware kit and instructions.
  • Concealed Cross Tube: Maintains an OE look while providing a sturdy 2" receiver.
  • Ideal for DIYers: Compatible with standard tools for a straightforward install.

Features to know about

Effortless Installation: No Welding Required Bolt-On Design

Say goodbye to complicated and time-consuming installations. This Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver is a game-changer with its straightforward bolt-on design, fitting snugly onto your vehicle's frame without the need for welding. It's crafted for ease, so whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this hitch ensures a hassle-free setup.

Reliable Strength on Every Trip: Precision Welding for Maximum Strength

Engineered with precision, the robotic welding of this hitch maximizes strength and enhances the fit, ensuring your trailer is securely attached for any adventure. It's tested for safety in line with SAE J684 standards, giving you complete peace of mind on the road.

Protection Against the Elements: Gloss Black Powder-Coated Finish

Towing can expose your vehicle to the harshest conditions. This hitch is protected by a high-gloss black powder coat finish over a robust base coat, offering superior resistance to rust and corrosion. Enjoy your journey knowing your hitch remains in pristine condition, even in the toughest weather.

Seamless Integration with Style: Concealed Cross Tube Design

Maintain the stylish appearance of your vehicle with this hitch's concealed design. The main body of the hitch is hidden to ensure an OE look and seamless integration with your vehicle's design, so your ride remains as sleek as ever.

Limitless Adventures Await: Class III Capacity and Versatility

Equipped with a 2” receiver and rated as a Class III hitch, it can handle up to 6,000 lbs of gross trailer weight and 600 lbs of tongue weight. This versatility supports a wide range of towing options, from bike racks to larger trailers, making it the perfect companion for all your travel needs.

Easy Maintenance: Open-Back Receiver for Quick Cleaning

Spend less time on upkeep with the open-back receiver design of this hitch. It allows for straightforward cleaning, so you can keep your hitch in tip-top condition with minimal effort, ensuring longevity and reliable use trip after trip.

Specs

Receiver Specs

  • Receiver opening: 2" x 2"

Rating

  • Class: III
  • Maximum gross trailer weight: 6,000 lbs
  • Maximum tongue weight: 600 lbs
  • Not rated for use with weight distribution systems

Warranty

  • Limited lifetime warranty

Install Summary

  • 70 minutes install time
  • No Drilling Required
  • Fascia trimming required for installation; special step in instructions for vehicles with kick sensor. No drilling through vehicle frame required for installation, Trimming or removal of underbody panel required for installation

13438 Curt Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver

Compare to Draw-Tite 76320

Item # CU78FR

Installation Details CU78FR Installation instructions
Weight Carrying Capacity
Gross Towing Weight (GTW):
6,000 lbs.

Tongue Weight (TW):
600 lbs.


Weight Distribution Capacity
Hitch does not allow
use of weight distribution



No drilling required Manufacturer Estimated Installation Time

Tech Tip

Fascia trimming required for installation; special step in instructions for vehicles with kick sensor. No drilling through vehicle frame required for installation , Trimming or removal of underbody panel required for installation , Exhaust must be temporarily lowered for installation , Heat shield must be modified or trimmed for hitch installation





Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.8

99 reviews
This fully welded trailer hitch receiver bolts onto your vehicle's frame with no welding required. Powder coated steel is sturdy and corrosion resistant.

by:
FordExplorer

install was easy on a 2022 Ford Explorer XLT and instructions clear. Minimal time needed to complete the install. Would be easier with 2 people doing the install but I was able to complete on my own without help. I can't address capacity since its mainly used to support a bike rack but the construction is 'beefy' enough that I would not suspect any problems for towing within the stated limits.



by:
2023 FordExplorer

The product fit perfectly to my Explorer 2023, top product, high quality, excelent service from etrailer, I´m a fan of you guys you rock, highly recommend



by:
2021 FordExplorer

I wanted a hitch receiver for my 21’ Ford explorer. I ordered it according to the websites suggestions. Free shipping which is alway nice. It’s was basically enroute the next day. The estimated date of arrival was on point. I was not capable of attaching it myself so I had my mechanic assemble it. He did tell me he had to cut a little of the bumper and move the heat shield. After it’s all said and done it looks stock from the dealership. The Ford dealership quoted me $750 just for the hitch without assembly. This hitch was under $300. No complaints, although I wish the hitch pin came with it or had an option to purchase one as an option with you buy the hitch receiver as I’m a novice with hitch’s. Overall good experience



by:

I did everything except install the hitch in a couple of hours by myself. I took my time, followed the directions and had no issues. The videos on [online] were super helpful. I used my oscillating tool to cut the bumper which worked perfectly. One of my son's came over the next morning and helped me install the hitch. Took us about a half an hour. I am very happy with the results and looking forward to using my new hitch to pull my utility trailer and to carry our bikes.



by:

I am very happy with the purchase quality, completeness of the installation kit and the sturdiness of it.

It is noteworthy that even though it has been exposed to sea & road salt and we live in a damp location no rust - even on paint scrapes - has appeared.



by:

Horrible experience I received the receiver and I start the whole project get the muffler dropped and notice I am missing 1 washer 2 bolts and 2 nuts for the bullts very upsetting after all that big waste of time

Jenny N. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jenny N.

6/4/2024

Oh no! That would be frustrating for sure. We will be in contact with you ASAP so that we can get the missing hardware out to you.



by:
2020 FordExplorer

This hitch fits perfectly. Took me about 3 hours to install by myself. The holes to be drill on the shield i just drill a hole and use snips to make yhe hole bigger its easy to do. Everything fits perfectly no rattles at all after installation. I did aply undercoating for rust protection since you have everything open at the time.



by:

fit was good. shipping was timely. instructions conflicting on how much to cut out of lower bumper cover. little disappointed with finish. paint was chipped in places. most likely in transit



by:
FordExplorer

This hitch is absolutely amazing! Beautiful look, flawless welds outstanding craftsmanship. It was unbelievably easy to install, I recommend throwing out the paper instructions that come with it and stick with the video instructions. Fits absolutely perfect. I recommend it to any Ford Explorer owner. Customer service is amazing as well, I wish all companies had customer service like this. You guys rock, keep up the great work.



by:

Wasn’t that hard to install. Online video was helpful

Pat profile picture

Pat

3/30/2024

I haven’t had any issues. I would buy it again if I had another SUV



by:
FordExplorer

Great kit that fit our 2021 Ford Explorer XLT Ecoboost perfectly. It installed easily in several simple steps, though the YOUTube walkthrough was the most valuable tool for getting the job done by myself in the afternoon. Great product.



by:

Excellent website, easy to navigate and find products! Super fast shipping and great order and shipping follow up via email. 5 star highly recommend!



by:

It's been a year--- and everything has been great. We've hauled everything we've needed without issue. Great, easy to install product!

Patrick profile picture

Patrick

3/11/2024

Still working well no issues! Weve pulled a car with a dolley as well as our trailer many times.



by:

Simplicity of installation was great. I installed this hitch myself, on the ground. With the help of the videos supplied by Etrailer, the job was fairly straightforward and easy. I used a jack to support the weight of the hitch itself and then lined it up, caught rear bolts and then it was easy from there. Etrailer shipped my order super fast and it was well packed. Their prices are very good as well. I highly recommend Etrailer for all your trailer needs. Working alone and on the ground, except for using ramps to elevate the rear. This entire install took me a little over 90 minutes.



by: 06/19/2024
2020 FordExplorer

took about 1 hour to install. Went real good.



by:

Works great and was very easy to instal l!



by:
2020 FordExplorer

Great affordable option! There is a etrailer youtube video that shows the install specific to the 2020 ford explorer. It is excellent, easy to follow, and detailed. I wish the link to the install video was available in the hitch item description, but it is easy enough to find on youtube. The written directions are a little vague, but the video fills in the details. I was able to do this install in my driveway using ramps. I strongly recommend using a heavy duty impact gun to remove the large 21mm existing factory bolt. I do not think I would have been able to get it out with a ratchet alone. If you are handy and have the tools this is a pretty straight forward install. It does involve cutting and drilling of factory heat shields so if you are not as mechanically inclined, or dont have the tools, you may want to spend the couple hundred dollars and have it installed.



by:
2020 FordExplorer

This is the third hitch I have purchased from etrailer, and this was great too. Took about 2.5 hrs to install in my garage (no lift). Video instructions where very helpful as was a second person to put the hitch in place. Great purchase and hope to get a lot of use from it.



by:

The hitch fits well and was easy to install for a first timer with average wrenching skills and tools. I installed the hitch in about 2.5 hours without a lift. I did need an extra set of hands when it came time to lift the hitch into place and get the first few bolts in. The only complaint I have, the instructions on how and where to trim the exhaust heat shields needs significant improvement. The dimensions listed are almost useless as they are not referenced off of any particular point on the shield. I had to trim more material away than I would have preferred after the initial cuts were off. A full-size paper template would have been a significant help.



by:
2020 FordExplorer

Great video showing the steps. Even when working by oneself, on the ground, on a gravel drive, it was straight forward. This was my third hitch from etrailer.



by:

Looks to be as described. You tube video shows ease of installation. Only concern was about some of the reviews about the packing of shipping items. My electrical kit was not secured to the inside of the box, but made it without a problem.



by:
2022 FordExplorer

Installation videos are great. Called sales and they told me the product I needed wasn't available. Contacted tech support and they immediately sent me a part number which was a little odd. As usual, order processed and shipped immediately. Delivery by UPS arrived on time but the package was horribly torn up. Luckily it appears no damage or missing items.



by:

No problems installing fits great! I recommend downloading the instructions from the website for color photos versus the black & whites that come with the hitch.



by:

Received trailer hitch fast in the mail. Look a few to install but overall it was easy installation.



by:

Watch the installation video and installed very easy


25
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Show More Reviews

See what our Experts say about this CURT Trailer Hitch

  • Curt Trailer Hitch vs. etrailer Hitch For 2024 Ford Explorer
    You've got yourself a good eye, Ben, as there is just one little difference between the Curt and etrailer trailer hitches for your 2024 Ford Explorer, which is the finish; if you take a look at the diagram I made for you, you should be able to see the slight difference in the finish. The etrailer hitch has a matte black finish, while the Curt hitch has a glossy black finish. The hitches that fit your VEHICLE are the following part numbers: - Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # CU78FR - etrailer...
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  • How Much Fascia Trimming is Needed on 2024 Ford Explorer to Install Curt Trailer Hitch
    Thanks for the question Roy, and you're not looking at much fascia trimming at all on your 2024 Ford Explorer to install the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # CU78FR. If you check out the attached photo from the instructions you can see it's just a small 3-1/2" x 4-3/4" section, which you can do with a pair of shears. As for if anyone will see it, the answer to that is nope, not a single person will notice. The cutout is underneath your Explorer and only needed so the receiver has a place...
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  • Recommended Trailer Hitch And Wiring For A 2023 Ford Explorer
    For a 2023 Ford Explorer you would need the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56093 if you did not have the factory trailer connector. If you did you would instead need the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package # C55384. For the trailer hitch I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # CU78FR. I've attached some video below that will help walk you through the installation process of these products if you plan to do them yourself.
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  • Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2023 Lincoln Aviator.
    I'm happy to report that we do have a trailer hitch and wiring for your 2023 Lincoln Aviator. For a hitch I recommend the Curt # CU78FR. This Class III hitch has a maximum gross trailer weight of 6,000 lbs and a 2" receiver. It features a concealed cross tube, gloss black powder coat finish, and comes with a lifetime warranty. For wiring, the most reliable option is the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # TK84FR. The T-connector will plug in behind your taillights providing you with...
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  • Recommended Trailer Hitch for a 2023 Ford Explorer
    Yes, the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # CU78FR you're checking out will fit your 2023 Ford Explorer. This trailer hitch has a 2" class III receiver opening, a 600 lb tongue weight capacity, and a 6,000 lb GVWR rating.
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  • Curt Hitch that Fits 2021 Ford Explorer Interceptor
    I checked with Curt and they list the hitch # CU78FR as a fit for all models of the 2021 Ford Explorer including the police interceptor models.
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  • Recommended Hitch and Wiring Harness for a 2021 Ford Explorer
    I would be happy to help you set up your 2021 Ford Explorer for towing. You're going to need a receiver hitch, wiring harness, brake controller, and ball mount kit. For a receiver hitch I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch item # CU78FR. This is a custom fit hitch that will attach to your Explorer's frame with no drilling. It is a class III receiver hitch with a maximum gross trailer weight of 6,000 lbs and a maximum tongue weight of 900 lbs. For a wiring harness you are going to need...
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  • Trailer Wiring Harness Recommendation for 2020 Ford Explorer Without Tow Package
    The T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness part # 118599 is a fit for a 2020 Ford Explorer without the factory tow package. If you did have the factory tow package you would then use the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness part # C55384. The T-One plugs in behind the tail lights so it bypasses the factory tow package wiring whereas the T-Connector plugs into the factory tow package port. If you don't already have a trailer hitch, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # CU78FR which...
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  • How Much Does the Curt CU78FR Hitch Weigh?
    The Curt Trailer Hitch item # CU78FR weighs 47 lbs. If you are looking for a wiring harness for your 2020 Ford Explorer I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector item # 118599.
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  • Recommended Trailer Hitch for a 2020 Ford Explorer
    I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # CU78FR for a 2020 Ford Explorer. I features a custom bolt-on fit with no drilling or welding required. It also has a hidden design which means only the receiver tube will be shown therefore you get the best overall install look and most ground clearance. It also will still allow for the use of a hand free liftgate feature if present. The same can all be said for the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 76320 as well as they...
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  • Installing the Curt Hitch On a 2020 Ford Explorer with Kick Sensors
    I checked with Curt and the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # CU78FR is listed as a fit a 2020 Ford Explorer with kick sensors. That said, the fit with the kick sensors is tight so there are a few things you need to do during installation to ensure compatibility. The steps labeled 5, 6, and 8 in the instructions below all have notes about installing the hitch on models with kick sensors. In some cases, it may be acceptable to bend the sensor bracket slightly but I don't have any relocation...
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  • Will Curt Trailer Hitch Fit a 2021 Ford Explorer Hybrid Model
    Yes, the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # CU78FR will fit perfectly fine on your 2021 Ford Explorer Hybrid model. We had a chance to install this on a 2021 Ford Explorer so I've attached the video as well as a photo of the finished install for you to check out. This is on a standard Explorer but the installation will be the same as your Hybrid.
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    Image 1 for
  • Trailer Wiring for 2020 Ford Explorer Without Factory Trailer Wiring
    The T-Connector for the 2020 Ford Explorer without factory tow package part # 118599 is the part you need for your application. This T-Connector is a plug and play option. In addition to the T-connector, if your vehicle doesn't have the tow package you need a trailer hitch. Part # CU78FR works for your application. This hitch is great because it is concealed under the bumper and only the receiver tube is visible. If you haven't already bought a ball mount, I highly recommend part #...
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  • What 5-Way Connector Do You Recommend to Use with My Boat Trailer on My 2022 Ford Explorer?
    For hauling your boat trailer on your 2022 Ford Explorer, most trailers require a 5-way harness. For this route, I recommend the Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 4-Way Flat to 5-Way Flat - Vehicle End # C57187. With this adapter, you will be able to use your existing 4-way harness to make the 5-way plug-in open for the trailer connector. As far as the install, it requires you to splice the additional wire into the reverse light circuit of the vehicle. If you need a hitch recommendation,...
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  • Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver For A 2022 Ford Explorer
    For your 2022 Ford Explorer I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # CU78FR. It is a confirmed fit for your Explorer and has a simple bolt-on installation. Curt's gloss black powder coat finish over protective base coat is known to offer superior rust resistance increasing the longevity of your trailer hitch well over the powder coating of their competitors. If you plan to tow a trailer you'll also need a trailer wiring harness to connect your vehicle's...
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  • Class III Trailer Hitch Fit for 2022 Ford Explorer
    For your 2022 Ford Explorer, we have the Curt Trailer Hitch # CU78FR is a fit for the 2022 Explorer. If you'll be towing with the hitch, you'll need a few other items to complete your towing system. For a trailer wiring harness, use # 118599. For a ball mount, use # 2753 along with # 19260 for a 1-7/8 or # 63845 for a 2 inch trailer ball. I've linked to an installation video for the hitch I recommended.
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  • Recommended Hitch and Wiring for 2020 Ford Explorer without Factory Towing Package
    The Curt # CU78FR is the correct hitch for your 2020 Ford Explorer and the powder coating on Curt hitches is a bit thicker, so it's going to help protect the hitch from scratches better than other hitches. For wiring, the Curt # C55384 is designed for Ford Explorers with the factory towing package, so it's likely that this 2020 Explorer doesn't have this towing package. Instead of the # C55384 you'll want to use the # C56093 which comes with all of the fuses and parts needed to install...
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  • How Difficult Is It To Install The Curt Class 3 Hitch CU78FR?
    Hello Billy, thanks for reaching out. The Curt Class 3 Hitch # CU78FR for the 2020 Ford Explorer is a no-drill install. That said, I would call this one a medium difficulty install. No drilling required but you will need to trim/remove a plastic underbody panel, you will need to temporarily lower the exhaust, and you will need to modify the heat shield. There is also some trimming of the bumper fascia required, and even more steps if you have a kick sensor. If this is your first time installing...
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  • Trailer Hitch and Wiring Fitment for a 2023 Ford Explorer
    The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # CU78FR does fit your 2023 Ford Explorer XLT, yes. For trailer wiring I recommend picking up the Tekonsha T-One # 118599 and using the Mounting Brackets # C42CR and # C57202 to secure the 4-Way wiring next to your hitch receiver for easy access. The trailer hitch will take about an hour and ten minutes to install for the average DIYer and the 4-Way wiring will be about the same. You can count on less time if you've done these types of installs before,...
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  • Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring Harness for 2021 Ford Explorer Towing Boat Trailer
    For a hitch for your 2021 Ford Explorer I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # CU78FR. This is a Class III hitch with a maximum gross trailer weight of 6,000 lbs and tongue weight of 600 lbs. It has a concealed cross tube to help maintain the factory look as well. For wiring, you will need to start by adding a 4-way. I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118599. This wiring harness connects quickly and easily, plugging into existing wiring. Once you have installed...
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  • Would Trailer Wiring from Ford Edge Fit 2020 Ford Explorer
    Trailer wiring from a Ford Edge is not the same as what fits a 2020 Ford Explorer like your Limited model so you would need a new kit that fits your vehicle like with the Curt # C56093 which installs easily by plugging inline with taillights. For a hitch I would recommend the mostly hidden Curt part # CU78FR which is also priced great and has plenty of towing capacity.
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  • Parts Needed To Install Redarc Liberty Trailer Brake Controller on 2022 Ford Explorer No Tow Package
    To install the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller # RED24FR on your 2022 Ford Explorer you will need the following parts. First a T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118599 is needed to tie into the tail lights of your Explorer to control the trailer lights. This will give you a 4-way flat connector. Then you will need the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7 that will provide you a 7-way connector and the rest of the wiring. The 4-way connector from the T-One...
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  • Trailer Hitch With Minimal Fascia Trimming Availability for 2020 Ford Explorer
    All the hitches available for the 2020 Ford Explorer would require trimming the fascia in similar fashion. Of the available choices, we'd recommend the etrailer brand Class III hitch, part # e29YR because of its reasonable price, high quality and mostly because it's manufactured here in the US. The installation isn't too terribly difficult, we'll link to the install instructions and an install video to check out.
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Info for this part was:

Employee Mike L
Expert Research:
Mike L
Employee Jameson C
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Employee Lindsey S
Edited by:
Lindsey S
Employee Joshua S
Video by:
Joshua S
Employee Thomas T
Video by:
Thomas T
Employee Jacob T
Video Edited:
Jacob T
Employee Chris R
Video Edited:
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Employee Wilson B
Updated by:
Wilson B
Employee Eric H
Updated by:
Eric H
Employee Kristina F
Written by:
Kristina F
Employee Ryan G
Test Fit:
Ryan G
Employee Scott A
Test Fit:
Scott A

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