Trailer Hitch and Wiring for a 2004 Ford Escape without Factory Tow Package

Updated 05/05/2020 | Published 09/24/2015

Products Featured in This Question

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(116)

$44.14

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(91)

$225.58

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1378)

$92.62

Question:

Looking to add a hitch to my sons 2004 Ford Escape XLT, without tow package. Really dont like splicing or crimping wires, like the plug in of this adapter, part 118343, says it is for 2003 model, read reviews and someone used on a 2001 Escape. I think this will work on the 2004 model. Is this correct.?

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

Trailer wiring harness # 118343 only fits up the 2001 to 2003 Ford Escape and will not fit the 2004 models. The only trailer wiring harness we have listed for the 2004 Ford Escape without the factory tow package is the hardwire kit # 46255 that does require splicing into the vehicle tail light wiring.

For a trailer hitch the most popular option is Draw-Tite trailer hitch # 75118. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you. If you plan on doing some towing I recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

expert reply by: Michael H

Jose P.

5/2/2020

im confuse i I order part # c59236, for my 2004 ford escape without the tow factor package, but your saying i sure use # 46255? i sure receiver today, so sure i send it back? Thanks for any help!

Chris R.

5/5/2020

The Curt Wiring Harness # C59236 you purchased for your Ford Escape without the tow package is perfect. There is no need to send it back. The harness Michael mentioned above is simply one from another manufacturer - both would work just fine.