Installation Procedure for Curt Class I Hitch # C13144 on 2015 Subaru Forester
Updated 12/22/2014 | Published 12/21/2014
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I just viewed the install video for a 2015 Subaru Forester installing hitch C13144. It showed removing the muffler heat shield BUT it didnt show reinstalling or noting it should be left off. So do I reinstall the muffler heat shield?
asked by: CJ B
Expert Reply:
According to the installation instructions, which I've linked for you, the head shields are removed and left off. With the hitch in place, the mounting flanges of the hitch will act as the heat shields and will prevent the heat from the exhaust from being conducted to the interior of the vehicle.
Please be aware that if the hitch is used for non trailer loads like a cargo carrier or a bike rack, a stabilizing strap like part # 18050 must be used to comply with Curt's hitch warranty requirements.
The Draw-Tite # 75876 has no such requirement for a stabilizing strap, but the heat shield would need to be trimmed and reinstalled during the hitch installation. Because the strap isn't needed, I'd recommend the Draw-Tite hitch over the Curt.
If you'll be using the hitch for towing purposes, you'll need the following to complete your towing system:
Trailer wiring harness, part # 118467
Ball mount, part # C45010
1-7/8 inch trailer ball, part # 19260
2 inch trailer ball, part # 63845
Locking hitch pin, part # e98882
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Search Results: thule t2 pro
- Video: All About the Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes
- Video: Mount: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2018 Subaru Forester
- Shop: Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Q&A: Best Trailer Hitch for a Bike Rack on a 2018 Subaru Forester
- Q&A: Differences Between Curt Class III Trailer Hitches for 2015 Subaru Forester
- Q&A: Will 2015 Subaru Forester Exhaust Damage the Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack
- Q&A: Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Recommendation for 2015 Subaru Forester XT
- Q&A: Is Stabilization Strap Required for Bike Rack on 2014 Subaru Forester w/Curt Class III Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Will Removing Heatshield For Installation of Hitch Cause Damage to Subaru Forester
- Q&A: Replacement Hardware for Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2015 Subaru Forester