Installation, Drilling and Trimming Required to Install a Trailer Hitch on a 2008 Chrysler Aspen

Updated 07/10/2012 | Published 07/09/2012

Products Featured in This Question

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

(49)

$157.52

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

(100)

$67.28

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

(1375)

$93.55

Question:

Do the holes need to be drilled from the underneath toward the bumper ? Do the holes need to be drill from the underneath side toward the plastic shroud ? Does the plastic have to be trimmed ?

asked by: Bill S

Expert Reply:

What our installers do when installing hitches on the Aspen, like your 2008, is to first get the hitch in position and attach the u-bolts that go over the vehicle bumper structure. Then, they use the hitch as a template and drill through the bumper structure from the back of the vehicle. Then they drill out the other side. The bumper structure is hallow so you do not have to drill all the way through. It is easier to get the holes lined up correctly this way.

Take a look at the instructions I have linked and the video I have linked that shows a typical installation of a similar hitch. There is some trimming involved as you will see in the instructions and video.

If you plan on doing some towing, I recommend the etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts, 2 balls, a hitch pin with clip and a carrying bag. For trailer wiring if the vehicle does not have a tow package, use # 118390. I have included instruction links for the wiring as well.

expert reply by: Michael H