Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver and Wiring for 1997 Dodge Dakota

Updated 09/06/2017 | Published 09/04/2017

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(67)

$226.53

Draw-Tite QSP Trailer Hitch Silencer and Cover for 2" Hitch Receivers

(1197)

$10.14

B&W Tow & Stow 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 3" Drop, 3-1/2" Rise - 7.5K - Black

(4734)

$239.00

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches - Flush - 2-5/8" Span - Chrome

(3660)

$23.42

Question:

I am about to purchase a hitch, wiring harness and silencer for my 1997 dodge dakota. Is there a bracket that I can purchase to mount the trailer light plug too so it will look nicer? Thank you

asked by: Dennis W

Expert Reply:

For your 1997 Dodge Dakota, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class 3 - 2" # e53AR which is a confirmed fit and an easy installation on your vehicle. I've attached a video of this installation on a similar truck for you to see the installation. For a silencer, I recommend the Draw-Tite QSP Trailer Hitch Silencer and Cover for 2" Hitch Receivers # 63080.

For a wiring harness, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118329. This custom-fit T-One connector plugs into your Dodge Dakota's wiring harness, which is located at the rear, along the inside of the frame rail on both the driver's and passenger's sides. Once installation is complete, the 4-way flat connector will be stowed beneath your Dodge Dakota, near the trailer hitch. I recommend the mounting bracket # 18144 along with the No-Drill Mount Bracket # 18140 to keep the connector secure.

You will also need a ball mount and I recommend the B&W Tow & Stow 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 3" Drop, 3-1/2" Rise - 7.5K - Black, # BWTS10035B. This will give you a 2 inch and 1-7/8 inch hitch ball as well as give you adjustability to tow a trailer level by offering the 1 inch height adjustments between a 3 inch drop and 3-1/2 inch rise. This ball mount also offers the ability to hide the ball on the backside when not in use to give you a clean look and save your shins when loading cargo in the bed of your truck. I also recommend the hitch pin lock # e98880 to secure your investment.