Just got my hitch will install it in a day or two. Good to know you don’t need to remove the exhaust brackets. I will open the holes from inside the trunk
Came across this searching for bike racks. I just installed this on Friday, but I removed the tail lights, bumper cover & impact bar. So much easier to access the frame rails (hand fits right in) vs cutting a hole & trying to fish the bolts/brackets into place. All done in under an hour.
Thanks for this video! I watched it when you first made it, and knew the day would come when I'd need it. The filing part took a bit longer for me, but still only about 15 minutes. I'm impressed that you were able to install it alone. I had my two teenage sons helping, and it was still a challenge, but we got it done, and now carrying the bikes is much easier! 😀 Anyways, thanks again for the great video.
Very cool! Glad it was helpful. It was pretty interesting getting that thing up there to bolt in. :) Have fun and thank you for watching and enjoy the hitch.
I was able to do it solo after watching you. **tip for those trying it, make your notch whole big enough for both bolt head and retaining bracket. At first i only made it big enough for the bracket and the bolts could fit, had to file it down a bit more. Test everything before you commit.
Made the installation of my own hitch on my Crosstrek much easier to handle on my own. It made me know exactly what to expect and what tools I would need. Thanks for the helpful video!!
Just as he did, I also did the tape to keep the washers on, and also used the muffler to temporarily support one side while I bolted the other side. That said I didn’t have a file so I used a corded Dremel with a metal coned tip (worked well but would have preferred a file for more control in a tight space). That was a very interesting install (don’t want to think about the headache if you got a bolt stick in the frame….). I did myself as well, but would recommend 2 people as well if you can.
Thx Rick. I struggled for quite a while watching a couple videos on the installation and was about to give up after watching a video that said you had to lower muffler. Didn’t think I could re attach rewatching yours the key was lifting the rear driver side. Bingo needed that extra room to finagle hitch without lowering muffler. And did it solo. Quite proud of myself. You da man Rick!
Thanks for posting the video! This is much more helpful to me than Curt's and eTrailer's, since I'm pretty much gonna have to do mine on the ground and by myself.
I'm so glad to watch you tackle the install on the Crosstrek. I got my wife's hitch from eTrailer for $120 two months ago during a sale........and now am getting ready to do the same install on my wife's IDENTICAL blue gray 2018 Crosstrek. I'm going to get a buddy to come over to help when the hitch has to be lifted up into place...........really appreciate the visual aid now. I bookmarked the video...... just need the temps here in NE to become consistently more Spring-like.
Thanks, Rick! Your video really explained several steps that the eTrailer video minimized......always better to watch a "regular Joe" in action than a tech rep! BTW, my wife compliments you on your automotive taste in model and color!
Steven Reiss Ha ya! Give your wife a high five 😃. It really is a nice color. And thanks you again. I have a lot of fun making the videos but enjoy interacting with good people like you. Cheers
Great video. I was leaning towards hire someone to install this for me until I saw your video. I got two quotes both suggesting 2 hours for install. One shop had an $85 hr shop rate and the other had a $149 per hour shop rate! no kidding. And they say two hours while you did it in about one hour. Thanks for helping me do it myself and save a bundle.
That is awesome Steve. It really isn't a bad job at all and it is nice to be able to do some stuff at home. I absolutely love having the hitch on the car and hope you enjoy yours as well.
Hi Rick, I'll offer a few points to others who have not yet installed their hitch systems. I liked the way you filed a square slot instead of drilling a larger hole as I've seen in another video about installing hitches on the CrossTrek from a hitch manufacturer. The only thing I would say is to make equal sized squares on either side of the hole (vs just on one side as you did on yours). The reason for this is that the integrity of the frame is compromised less when you do it this way, and from what I've seen, the frame in this area is less than beefy. Another thing I'd suggest is to use the center hole for the filing to get the backing plate in there, leaving the remaining holes used for mounting untouched.
@@TheJackShack I believe that I made that comment prior to installing the hitch. If I recall correctly, two of the holes are smaller than the third (front one?). I think I probably went ahead and filed only the larger hole to minimize material removal. From a strength perspective, I'm not sure if the added support from the front/rear mounting would negate any issues with enlarging the center hole, but again, as I recall, I enlarged the larger hole. It would be good to know how you did yours.
Rick, I finally got the Curt installed on my wife’s 2018 Crosstrek.........you must have arms the size of a wrestler! I had a younger guy help me lifting the hitch up to the sub-frame and we struggled......I didn’t fell too bad because I’m over 70 but the other guy was 26 and no slouch.......surprised that Curt didn’t see fit to use longer bolts for the front holes since the addition of the leveling blocks really keeps the bolts from extending all the way into the nuts........had to check afterwards to be sure that the bolts were all the same length......your video really impressed me after installing my hitch....all’s well that ended well........the overall install is very well thought out, hitch weight to lift aside!
Hi Steven, thank you for letting me know the video was helpful. That is what it is all about! Your comment made me laugh out loud and it was definitely tricky getting the hitch in place. :) I Hope all else is going well with your Crosstrek and thank you so much for watching along! Happy towing and carrying stuff! Cheers.
Another great, straight to the point video. My wife just purchased a used 2019 CT Limited. I'll be installing a Curt hitch on it in the coming months as she'll want to transport her bike on the the bike rack attached to the hitch in the spring/summer. This vid will definitely help me with my installation. Thanks!
Just installed the Curt hitch on my 4 day old '18 Crosstrek. Your video was invaluable since I installed mine flat on my back in my garage as well; doable but not easy. Thanks for your help.
This video helped me, Rick. Thanks. I bought this Curt for my 2018 and installed it alone. I used daisy chained zip ties and secured one side of the hitch up to some number straps that are under there to help me have some extra hands. That worked great.
Just finished putting one on my 2019. Video was on-point and covered everything I needed to install. 1-ish hour install with wife's help. Spacer makes it level/in-line with back end of vehicle; no spacer would make it more level with roadway. Will be personal preference. I would suggest lining it up with bolts and then supporting it (hitch end) with a jack. You can only hold that thing up so long...I found out the hard way.
I got a used Kayak trailer. But I plan to haul a small overlander trailer which is small enough to pull with the crosstrek. Weighs about 600 lbs with the popup tent and some gear.
Awesome, just installed mine and i used a pump jack to hold the hitch up after all the screws are threw the holes, just use a screwdriver in a angle to hold bolt and start place nut on bolt slowly. And great idea to tape up the back spacer.
Excellent vid. I installed the same hitch on my Trek, and yes, getting the hitch up in place is the most difficult, with only yourself (as I did as well). However, I used multiple blocks of wood under each side which I raised progressively to get the hitch to its final position to thread through the bolts. The blocks of wood held it in place, and made it a lot easier.
Great video. It gave me a good heads up for installing my hitch. I did find that the left side (driver's) was a little harder to access for opening up the hole in the frame. The exhaust was in the way. I was able to install the hitch myself in about an hour. In all, very easy install. Thanks for the video
Great video Rick, I agree with Ken wrt driver side hole. Took m about 2 hours if I don't count the interruptions. I used jack stands to hold hitch up. square file is way to go but make sure bolt will go in thread side first because the angle requires a little more access then the bolt head first attempt. Also, torquing down the driver side front bolt was challenging to get the wrench/extensions into position with muffler/pipes. I think if I had to do it over again I would take off exhaust.
Saw the video when you first posted, and now came back because I actually installed one! Mostly needed to figure out whether I needed those square spacers. It says “as needed to level” but definitely leaves a gap at that frame seam if you don’t put it on. Now I can go back and put them in 😂
Rick, thank you for this very informative video.. You did an Excellent job. My wife and I just bought an 18' in the same color you have. After watching your video I installed my hitch in 20 Min. quite possibly the easiest job i've done in a long time. Thank you
Hi Paula, thanks so much! I am glad it was helpful for your install. I think the hitch is one of my favorite additions to the car. Thank you for subscribing
No cursing good job .I would have been even before the box got open.lol Nice install their very handy I have a basket and a d ring shackle for towing people out when their stuck
Ha ha ha. There was a part when I was torquing the left side bolts and the socket slipped off the nut and I hit myself just left of my Left eye where there might have been a few. :) You can see the swelling in the Wheel update video. Glad you liked the video! I definitely have plans for a basket here soon. D ring is another great idea! Thanks for the idea.
If you pull up the liner in the trunk (very easy to do) there is an access hole that you can fish the bolts and spacers through without having to cut your structural frame.
Thank you...I'm not sure there is access through there actually? What I had to drill was not structural...just thin metal. Thanks very much for watching.
@@AZdroptop Hi Rick, so maybe I got a different washer in my kit but it got through the hole in the trunk, which made me happy because I didn't want to cut the frame below. I've been watching your other videos and have to say that your ride looks terrific, I'll look through all of them but is there a chance you can let me know what rims you have?
Oh cool! I'll have to check out my car again when my son gets home and try to locate it. Much appreciated. Thank you for watching the videos! The wheels are Method Race Wheels VT spec 15 x 7, 5x100, +15 off set. Love them.
Another advantage to the Eco hitch that pins the receiver in when needed is for the off road oriented to maintain maximum departure angle with yours you lose a couple degrees.
First off, thanks for making this video, it was very informative as to what you get with the hitch and the steps involved for install. Second, after doing this same install this afternoon, I think you made your life harder by putting the car on stands first. I'm 5'9" and with the car on the ground, I was able to prop the hitch up using a knee while I got the nuts started (the hardest part.) There's a little less clearance when initially getting yourself and the hitch under the car, but definitely doable.
Chaz I was working on installing my hitch yesterday and had the hardest time getting the bolts into those holes. In this video he made a small cut on the side, but after fitting the washers in, the head of the bolt wouldn't fit. We had to bore out that hole much larger than this video shows. I was wondering if anyone else ran into this issue? I thought a file would do it, but it took hours with a file and only got one side done. I didn't use jacks either, I had plenty of clearence to work.
I used a taper file so I ended up with a triangle shaped notch, but it was similar in size to what is shown here, maybe a little smaller. I do agree that the bolt head will drive the size of the notch you need, not the washers. On the first side I would file a bit check the washer, file a bit, etc. then when the washer fit I started trying to feed everything though and got the bolt stuck. D'oh! I had to take the bolt off the fish wire and continue filing with the washer laying in the frame rail and holding the fish wire off to the side, not ideal. On the other side I used the bolt head to gauge when I was done filing.
Yea I messed up and dropped the washer in the hole and spent another few minutes trying if fish it out. I ended up borrowing a dremel for the 2nd hole and went much quicker. Installing the actual hitch took less than 20 minutes. If anyone is reading this who plans to install the hitch yourself, I recommend using the bolt to measure the hole by, don't attempt to use a file, it'll take forever. Have a ratchet extension for your ratchet and torque wrench and when positioning the hitch in place start with the driver's side first, put bolts in to hold it in place then move on to the passenger's side. Also, I'm a smaller framed women and I had my sixteen year old daughter helping me. If we had the proper tools on hand (and had the dremel to start with) this job would have gone much faster, but sadly my tool box is lacking in most things. All in all, this video is a great tutorial on how to install the hitch. It's not that diffacult and doing it yourself can save so much money to put towards other things like a really nice bike rack.
I'm going to attempt to install mine..but. what is the spray called to put on bolts and 2 wht kind of wrench can you use to tighten bolts I dont own a torque wrench
Ordered what I thought was this hitch off Amazon. Page said for model years 2016 and newer. Received the hitch installed the same hardware and went to put the actual reciever on and it was too narrow. Went back to the Amazon page. (This is 8 months later after I originally ordered.) And has since been updated to aay it doesn't fit my vehical. Here to hopeing that curt will swap recievers with me.
@@AZdroptop Amazon won't. But idk about curt. Their customer service is only open week days. So all I need is 2018 reciever and I'm hoping they will swap with me.
Oh ok. Sorry about that, I didn't realize Amazon said no. Hopefully Curt will do so. Seems like if you have all the parts they might. Best of luck with it.
Thanks for the video Rick! I just bought a '19 Crosstrek last weekend at Tucson Subaru (decision made easier by watching your backroading vids before the purchase) and I just got done installing my Curt hitch. I was nervous about the front bolts barely reaching all the way through the nut and wondered if I'd done something wrong, but from your vid and others it seems that's just the way it's supposed to be. Your vid gave me some peace of mind. I'm looking forward to having a better camping vehicle than my Prius!
HI Brain, that is awesome! Great to hear the video was helpful and congrats on the the Hitch. I love having one on the car and it has been super useful. From my trailer to my hitch basket. Cheers
Greetings from Scottsdale Rick. Thanks for the vid. Just bought a 2016 Crosstrek and planning on getting the hitch on ASAP. I'm coming from a 2010 OB, so enjoying learning all the new stuff with some familiar Subie feels. Enjoy the channel, def will be looking at some OFF road easy add ons.
Cool Adam, give me a shout if you have any questions during the install. It is pretty straight forward, but sometimes those turn out to be the most difficult. :) Story of my life...LOL Thank you for watching.
Morning Rick, after researching tons on hitch mounts for my 2016 Crosstrek, Im def wanting the concealed style you have in this vid, but Trailer site can't confirm it will fit and I haven't found a concealed version that officially fits my 2016 Crosstrek. Think this one for a 2018 will fit? Thank you for your help! I appreciate you.
YOU MADE IT LOOK EASY! EVEN THOUGH I SURE IT HAD ITS MOMENTS! A JACK STAND MIGHT OF HELPED? THIS WILL COME IN HANDY WHEN I GET MY CROSSTREK HOPEFULLY LATER THIS YEAR? THE OLDER MODELS YOU COULD HIDE IT BEHIND THE PLASTIC BUMPER. THANK YOU AGAIN! BE SAFE! HAVE FUN! GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS! ENJOYED!
Thanks David, I thought about the jack stand, but I don't think it would have extended up high enough. It took awhile to wrestle it up into place, but honestly even doing it myself it wasn't that bad. God bless you as well and thanks for watching and commenting. Cheers
I used two 5 gallon buckets to hold the hitch up while I installed the nuts. The hardest part of this is getting the nuts on. Dealer wanted $250 to do this !
Thank you Mike! Much appreciated. My friend Trent is no longer doing sales there, but if you don't have a salesman yet give Baron Clement a call. Very close friend of Trent's and he will take care of you. Let him know I recommended him. Cheers and I hope you find a nice 18!
I talked a little bit about that in the Reddington off road video I think, LOL I am getting old, but to be honest, in stock form there really wasn't a huge difference. I drove that road in both cars and nothing really stands out...Other than the lack of rattles and that the 18 is quieter even off road. Hard to really say performance wise. Hopefully that helps a little.
Good video Rick. I have installed 2 of these hitches in the past...Crosstrek and Outback...and am amazed that Subaru does not manufacture built-in threaded holes to mount a trailer hitch into the frame...that would make the install a breeze. This process of creating a huge hole to thread these plates and bolts through is ridiculous. This video will be helpful to those that endeavor to self install one themselves.
Patrick Caple I believe if you use Subarus hitch than it looks directly into the frame. I remember seeing a accessory video on it on there UA-cam channel.
Nice job! I've installed three of these (02WRX crosstrek and a jeep cherokee) Sometimes you can balance the hitch on a floor jack. but regardless its always interesting by yourself.
I think the older models were better for the hitch as they offered a hidden section where you could put the plate back when not in use to cover the hitch
I believe that little section had to be cut out if I remember correctly? My 14 had the section you are referring to, but i don't think it was replaceable? There is still a hidden hitch that can be purchased, but it is 400 vs 150. Thank you for watching!
Tounge weight and tow limitations are alot less on the Crosstrek itself, the hitch is beastly with a 2" receiver but you wouldn't be able to tow to it's limit. Good thing is you have more options like bike racks and foldable baskets.
I just got my Xtrek last week and will be installing a hitch soon. I like this car-so far-but it's strange that the designers opted to remove the bumper pass through that was available on earlier models.
HI And congrats on the new Crosstrek. Well, the pass through is still there, its just that the wiring harness is too big to fit through. One subscriber, Jaime Diaz, cut the harness then used wiring connectors to reconnect after passing through the hole. I plan to follow his routing just need to take the time to do it. Here is his link if interested. Good luck with the install and let me know if I can help. www.subaruxvforum.com/forum/subaru-xv-members-journal/158361-my-2018-crosstrek-limited-build-thread-5.html
Thanks Rick, it's definitely something I'll follow and the impetus to join this forum. Btw, I'm wondering if we're on separate pages about the pass-through. The thing I'm talking about is the 'blank' that used to be on earlier models. In the following link, it's the red trapezoid shape located on the bottom of the rear bumper... www.torquenews.com/sites/default/files/styles/news/public/image-1084/a-crosstrek_upgrades_2017.jpg I've seen people use it to hide their hitch receiver. My bumper doesn't have it. Does yours?
Oh ok, I know what you are talking about now. Sorry about that. Yes, my 18 does not have the cut out, but my 14 did. I thought you were talking about a place for the wiring to come through. :) Sorry about that. The link did not work for me by the way.
i didn't have to file down the hole like you did I was able to just send the nut and washer though the larger hole and place them into the smaller... then just put the bolt and washer inside the larger... no need for the cutting of the frame
Great video, just installed that hitch on my 2022 Crosstrek. I'm looking at how thin the medal is on the car where the trailer connects, that concerns me (being an engineer) Car is rated to tow 1500lb. My Outback also looks the same thickness and the car is rated to tow, 2700lb. I can't find any incidences on Google of hitches getting pulled off a car, so guess it is strong enough.
Rick Hutton Thanks. I just got mine installed and man what a pain in the ass that was. A 45min job became a 3 hour job. The flat piece did not fit in the hole like how I watched in the video. I had to bend it a sand it off to make it fit.
Was that for the eco hitch? Can't remember. That would of helped a little on this one, but my luck I would have messed something up going that route. LOL I'm my own worst enemy sometimes. :)
I just placed an order for a Crosstrek with the oem hitch option .... I'm literally face palming throughout the whole video, seeing how easy and how much cheaper this would of been.
Oh man sorry about that! It is definitely a cheaper way to go and an easier install I believe. Any change you can cancel your order? Regardless I am sure the Subaru version is of excellent quality and will work great! best of luck
Thank you so much for the video Rick! Well done! My son and I installed our hitch in about 40 minutes thanks to your video. Question: I do not seem to have much bolt thread coming through the nuts on the front of the hitch. Is this common?
Hey Rick I'm loving all the recent Crosstrek videos keep them coming, looking forward to an mpg update video. What other plans do you have for the car?
Thank you Brad, it has been a lot of fun finally doing some real mods to the car. At this point, other than putting on the black center caps when they arrive, I don't have any immediate plans. I have an amped sub that was in the 14 that I thought about installing, but I am pretty happy with the sound right now so I'll probably give it to my son. I think I will get out and do some more off road stuff and determine if a Lift is worth the time, money and further changes to the ride characteristics. Thank you for watching and commenting on her Brad...Cheers
Sorry if this question was asked already. I didn't notice if you mentioned thread locker. I just installed my curt hitch the other day after watching your video... after installing I thought, "should i have used some thread locker? "
I actually didn't use any either and she is holding up just fine so far. Nice and tight as of the other day when I checked. Probably shouldn't hurt, but wasn't recommended by etrailer.com so I didn't do it.
Hey Rick, love these videos man. Sorry if this has been answered before. I don't have the money for the eco hitch and wanted to know if you've noticed any significant loss in clearance or departure angle using the curt. This is the route I'd like to go, but spend a good deal of time off road.
Hey no worries, thank you for watching. I haven't noticed anything dramatic with the hitch back there and even go off road with the ball mount installed sometimes...The hitch makes for a great camera mount too. :) The biggest area I seem to rub or hit on off road is the lower front plastic lip and haven't notice much out back. Hope that helps. Cheers!
Very well detailed video. A hitch is one of those things I feel the Crosstrek needed from factory, and I was a little afraid of having to either install one or pay someone to put one on but this hitch looks amazing and installation (though taxing) looks pretty straight forward. Do you find you have plenty of bumper clearance with the connection part (not sure the name) that sticks out?
HI Andr'e, thank you very much! If you have someone along to help lifting the hitch up the install really is very straight forward and I think you'll be able to handle just fine. No clearance issues at all after about 10,000 miles. Best of luck and thank you for watching.
Hey Rick. You're probably knee deep in your Jeep adventures but I have a quick Crosstrek question for you. The Class 3 Curt hitch you installed. Did you have to unmount the muffler or did you manage to work around it? Just weighing in if I should have someone install it for me or not. I installed one before years ago on a Toyota Matrix. But it was pretty straightforward with no holes to expand. Thanks!
Hi Steve, I was able to do it with out removing the muffler. It really isn't a bad job at all. Just pick up a small file if you don't have one and you'll be fine. Nice to have a helper to lift the lift up when ready, but otherwise it really isn't bad. Happy to help anytime with Crosstrek questions. I appreciate your watching.
Great informative video which will make installing the hitch much easier, but aren't you supposed to widen the middle hole and use that one to feed everything through. Now you've compromised the integrity of the metal that's actually supporting the hitch.
Thank you. Not sure on the middle hole, I just followed e-trailers directions when installing and so far the hitch has been solid. Best of luck with your install.
Really like the idea of just cutting a slot instead of hogging out the bolt hole. Some of the online installations really butcher the sheetmetal.. When installing the wiring kit will you run it under the car or under the hatch ? I always thought the hatch pinching the harness will eventually cause problems.
Thank you. I agree, some really cut it up unnecessarily. From what I can tell there are already holes with caps underneath so I plan to run the wires under the car and into the rear area near the spare and over to the built in wiring. Not super familiar with the process yet, but that is the tentative plan. :)
Very helpful! Just ordered a Curt hitch for my 18 Crosstrek!
Awesome. You will love having it on the car...still my favorite mod. Thanks so much for watching.
Just ordered my hitch for my Crosstrek! This has to be the clearest and most straightforward video on its install so thank you!!
Thanks so much! Having the hitch on the car is great! Best of luck on the install.
@@AZdroptop thanks for the kind wishes, the install went off without a hitch *pun intended* :D
Lol didn’t expect You to actually say dez nuts lol
Just got my hitch will install it in a day or two. Good to know you don’t need to remove the exhaust brackets. I will open the holes from inside the trunk
Awesome!
Came across this searching for bike racks. I just installed this on Friday, but I removed the tail lights, bumper cover & impact bar. So much easier to access the frame rails (hand fits right in) vs cutting a hole & trying to fish the bolts/brackets into place. All done in under an hour.
Cool, glad your install went well.
Thanks for this video! I watched it when you first made it, and knew the day would come when I'd need it. The filing part took a bit longer for me, but still only about 15 minutes. I'm impressed that you were able to install it alone. I had my two teenage sons helping, and it was still a challenge, but we got it done, and now carrying the bikes is much easier! 😀 Anyways, thanks again for the great video.
Very cool! Glad it was helpful. It was pretty interesting getting that thing up there to bolt in. :) Have fun and thank you for watching and enjoy the hitch.
Thanks for the video.I did mine myself and it was a challenge, I used a hydraulic jack to help hold it up for me. 😅
I was able to do it solo after watching you. **tip for those trying it, make your notch whole big enough for both bolt head and retaining bracket. At first i only made it big enough for the bracket and the bolts could fit, had to file it down a bit more. Test everything before you commit.
Good tip!
Made the installation of my own hitch on my Crosstrek much easier to handle on my own. It made me know exactly what to expect and what tools I would need. Thanks for the helpful video!!
Awesome Jeremy! Glad it was helpful. Cheers.
Hey man. I just wanted to say that your video was SUPER helpful! Thanks for posting, my wife’s crosstrek now has a 2” receiver!!
Thank you so much! That is great to hear.
Just as he did, I also did the tape to keep the washers on, and also used the muffler to temporarily support one side while I bolted the other side. That said I didn’t have a file so I used a corded Dremel with a metal coned tip (worked well but would have preferred a file for more control in a tight space). That was a very interesting install (don’t want to think about the headache if you got a bolt stick in the frame….). I did myself as well, but would recommend 2 people as well if you can.
Thx Rick. I struggled for quite a while watching a couple videos on the installation and was about to give up after watching a video that said you had to lower muffler. Didn’t think I could re attach rewatching yours the key was lifting the rear driver side. Bingo needed that extra room to finagle hitch without lowering muffler. And did it solo. Quite proud of myself. You da man Rick!
Hi Mark, that is awesome! So glad the video helped and congrats on the new hitch! It is still one of my favorite mods on the Crosstrek.
Thanks for posting the video! This is much more helpful to me than Curt's and eTrailer's, since I'm pretty much gonna have to do mine on the ground and by myself.
Cool Craig, glad it was helpful!
I'm so glad to watch you tackle the install on the Crosstrek. I got my wife's hitch from eTrailer for $120 two months ago during a sale........and now am getting ready to do the same install on my wife's IDENTICAL blue gray 2018 Crosstrek. I'm going to get a buddy to come over to help when the hitch has to be lifted up into place...........really appreciate the visual aid now. I bookmarked the video...... just need the temps here in NE to become consistently more Spring-like.
Awesome Steven! Good luck with the install. Thanks much for your kind words. Let me know if you have any questions!
Thanks, Rick! Your video really explained several steps that the eTrailer video minimized......always better to watch a "regular Joe" in action than a tech rep! BTW, my wife compliments you on your automotive taste in model and color!
Steven Reiss Ha ya! Give your wife a high five 😃. It really is a nice color. And thanks you again. I have a lot of fun making the videos but enjoy interacting with good people like you. Cheers
Great video. I was leaning towards hire someone to install this for me until I saw your video. I got two quotes both suggesting 2 hours for install. One shop had an $85 hr shop rate and the other had a $149 per hour shop rate! no kidding. And they say two hours while you did it in about one hour. Thanks for helping me do it myself and save a bundle.
That is awesome Steve. It really isn't a bad job at all and it is nice to be able to do some stuff at home. I absolutely love having the hitch on the car and hope you enjoy yours as well.
I'm impressed you were able to do 9:20 to 9:35 solo -- I had to have somebody help me with that part. It's so much easier with 4 hands.
Definitely would have been! :)
Hi Rick, I'll offer a few points to others who have not yet installed their hitch systems. I liked the way you filed a square slot instead of drilling a larger hole as I've seen in another video about installing hitches on the CrossTrek from a hitch manufacturer. The only thing I would say is to make equal sized squares on either side of the hole (vs just on one side as you did on yours). The reason for this is that the integrity of the frame is compromised less when you do it this way, and from what I've seen, the frame in this area is less than beefy. Another thing I'd suggest is to use the center hole for the filing to get the backing plate in there, leaving the remaining holes used for mounting untouched.
Thank you very much for the tips and suggestions. I always appreciate it. It is my favorite mod. :)
Very smart. Thanks for this comment.
@@TheJackShack I believe that I made that comment prior to installing the hitch. If I recall correctly, two of the holes are smaller than the third (front one?). I think I probably went ahead and filed only the larger hole to minimize material removal. From a strength perspective, I'm not sure if the added support from the front/rear mounting would negate any issues with enlarging the center hole, but again, as I recall, I enlarged the larger hole. It would be good to know how you did yours.
@@ptmalm Ha, yeah I saw that when I got underneath the other day. Did the same.
Rick, I finally got the Curt installed on my wife’s 2018 Crosstrek.........you must have arms the size of a wrestler! I had a younger guy help me lifting the hitch up to the sub-frame and we struggled......I didn’t fell too bad because I’m over 70 but the other guy was 26 and no slouch.......surprised that Curt didn’t see fit to use longer bolts for the front holes since the addition of the leveling blocks really keeps the bolts from extending all the way into the nuts........had to check afterwards to be sure that the bolts were all the same length......your video really impressed me after installing my hitch....all’s well that ended well........the overall install is very well thought out, hitch weight to lift aside!
Hi Steven, thank you for letting me know the video was helpful. That is what it is all about! Your comment made me laugh out loud and it was definitely tricky getting the hitch in place. :) I Hope all else is going well with your Crosstrek and thank you so much for watching along! Happy towing and carrying stuff! Cheers.
Another great, straight to the point video. My wife just purchased a used 2019 CT Limited. I'll be installing a Curt hitch on it in the coming months as she'll want to transport her bike on the the bike rack attached to the hitch in the spring/summer. This vid will definitely help me with my installation. Thanks!
Awesome! I used mine with a bike rack all the time and the hitch is still probably my favorite mod.
Just installed the Curt hitch on my 4 day old '18 Crosstrek. Your video was invaluable since I installed mine flat on my back in my garage as well; doable but not easy. Thanks for your help.
Thank you Michael and congrats on the new Crosstrek!
This video helped me, Rick. Thanks. I bought this Curt for my 2018 and installed it alone. I used daisy chained zip ties and secured one side of the hitch up to some number straps that are under there to help me have some extra hands. That worked great.
That is great, glad the video helped and hope you enjoy he hitch. Also excellent ingenuity on the zip ties!!!!
Just finished putting one on my 2019. Video was on-point and covered everything I needed to install. 1-ish hour install with wife's help. Spacer makes it level/in-line with back end of vehicle; no spacer would make it more level with roadway. Will be personal preference. I would suggest lining it up with bolts and then supporting it (hitch end) with a jack. You can only hold that thing up so long...I found out the hard way.
Thanks Andres! The jack idea is a good one! Glad it went well and was helpful. Nice to get your wife involved as well. Cheers brother!
Did you have to remove the exhaust? I just picked one up and hoping to install this weekend
I got a used Kayak trailer. But I plan to haul a small overlander trailer which is small enough to pull with the crosstrek. Weighs about 600 lbs with the popup tent and some gear.
Very nice. That will work great. You will feel it on the inclines, but it should work out well.
Hi! My husband and I installed this hitch this evening on my 2018 Crosstrek. Your video was a great help. It took us about 45 minutes. Thank you!
Thank you very much! Glad it was helpful. Cheers.
I have the same hitch coming too. Great to see this!!
Nice Chris, very straight forward install. Cheers.
Great tutorial on the hitch installation. I was able to navigate the install with your help.
Thanks so much John. Awesome to hear it was helpful.
Thanks Rick, I just installed my Curt Hitch. Easy install thanks for your video on this install. I needed the hitch for my rear Thule bike rack.
Awesome Randy, it is a nice little option to have on the car. Glad it was an easy install.
Thanks for the video! I recently got a 2019 Crosstrek and plan to get this hitch soon! Looks easy enough to install with a buddy and a few beers ;)
The beers will help for sure! 😃. You’ll love the hitch! Thank you for watching!
Awesome, just installed mine and i used a pump jack to hold the hitch up
after all the screws are threw the holes, just use a screwdriver in a angle to hold bolt and start place nut on bolt slowly.
And great idea to tape up the back spacer.
Excellent Saul! Sounds like your install went great. Awesome. Enjoy the hitch...it is a great addition to the car.
Suggestion: use some bungee cords to hold the hitch up. It will free your hands to fish the wires
Excellent vid. I installed the same hitch on my Trek, and yes, getting the hitch up in place is the most difficult, with only yourself (as I did as well). However, I used multiple blocks of wood under each side which I raised progressively to get the hitch to its final position to thread through the bolts. The blocks of wood held it in place, and made it a lot easier.
Thank you Walter and nice job with the wood assist. Cheers
Great video. It gave me a good heads up for installing my hitch. I did find that the left side (driver's) was a little harder to access for opening up the hole in the frame. The exhaust was in the way. I was able to install the hitch myself in about an hour. In all, very easy install. Thanks for the video
Hi Ken, that’s great! Glad it was helpful.
Great video Rick, I agree with Ken wrt driver side hole. Took m about 2 hours if I don't count the interruptions. I used jack stands to hold hitch up. square file is way to go but make sure bolt will go in thread side first because the angle requires a little more access then the bolt head first attempt. Also, torquing down the driver side front bolt was challenging to get the wrench/extensions into position with muffler/pipes. I think if I had to do it over again I would take off exhaust.
Saw the video when you first posted, and now came back because I actually installed one!
Mostly needed to figure out whether I needed those square spacers. It says “as needed to level” but definitely leaves a gap at that frame seam if you don’t put it on. Now I can go back and put them in 😂
Could you get yours to fit? I can’t seem to fit the spacer. Worried about skipping it
"So this is a dramatization.." Haha. Thanks for the video, will be invaluable when I install my hitch this weekend!
:) Best of luck. Love having the hitch on there and it is a pretty easy install. Thank you for watching.
Rick, thank you for this very informative video.. You did an Excellent job. My wife and I just bought an 18' in the same color you have. After watching your video I installed my hitch in 20 Min. quite possibly the easiest job i've done in a long time. Thank you
Hi Joesph thank you very much. Glad the video was helpful and I hope you all love your Crosstrek as much as I do.
Thanks for the video! Just got my hitch installed on my 19 crosstreck! Love your videos keep it up!
Thanks Shawn! Much appreciated and congrats on the hitch.
I just installed this on my 2019 Crosstrek. Your video was far better than the one by Curt! I am now a loyal subscriber!
Hi Paula, thanks so much! I am glad it was helpful for your install. I think the hitch is one of my favorite additions to the car. Thank you for subscribing
Did you have to remove the exhaust? I just picked one up and hoping to install this weekend
@@kaseywright6599 hey Kasey! No, i did not. It did take some finagling, but i was able to do it alone and leave the exhaust on
@@moofish14 thanks for the quick reply
No cursing good job .I would have been even before the box got open.lol
Nice install their very handy I have a basket and a d ring shackle for towing people out when their stuck
Ha ha ha. There was a part when I was torquing the left side bolts and the socket slipped off the nut and I hit myself just left of my Left eye where there might have been a few. :) You can see the swelling in the Wheel update video. Glad you liked the video!
I definitely have plans for a basket here soon. D ring is another great idea! Thanks for the idea.
If you pull up the liner in the trunk (very easy to do) there is an access hole that you can fish the bolts and spacers through without having to cut your structural frame.
Thank you...I'm not sure there is access through there actually? What I had to drill was not structural...just thin metal. Thanks very much for watching.
@@AZdroptop Hi Rick, so maybe I got a different washer in my kit but it got through the hole in the trunk, which made me happy because I didn't want to cut the frame below. I've been watching your other videos and have to say that your ride looks terrific, I'll look through all of them but is there a chance you can let me know what rims you have?
Oh cool! I'll have to check out my car again when my son gets home and try to locate it. Much appreciated. Thank you for watching the videos! The wheels are Method Race Wheels VT spec 15 x 7, 5x100, +15 off set. Love them.
@@AZdroptop thanks so much. I'm going to go look out for them.
My pleasure! Happy to help in anyway that I can.can.
I ordered the exact one yesterday for my 2018 crosstrek as well. Then today run into your video awesome man can’t wait. Great content!!!!
Thank you Anthony! That's awesome. If you run into any issues with the install let me know and I'd be happy to help if I can. Cheers!
I’m getting ready to install mine on my crosstrek this afternoon; which me luck!. Thank you maestro.
Nice! Let me know how it goes and good luck!
Rick Hutton got it done. Looking good, thanks for the video.
Another advantage to the Eco hitch that pins the receiver in when needed is for the off road oriented to maintain maximum departure angle with yours you lose a couple degrees.
Definitely, it is a very nice set up, just didn't want to spend the extra cashola on it. Cheers Brad
Is the eco hitch able to work on the 2018s? I didn't see a spot for it to be hidden like on the previous years? Or am I going blind lol?
Yep. I have seen a video on the install. They drop the muffler to install it.torkliftcentral.com/2018-subaru-crosstrek-ecohitch-stealth cheers.
First off, thanks for making this video, it was very informative as to what you get with the hitch and the steps involved for install. Second, after doing this same install this afternoon, I think you made your life harder by putting the car on stands first. I'm 5'9" and with the car on the ground, I was able to prop the hitch up using a knee while I got the nuts started (the hardest part.) There's a little less clearance when initially getting yourself and the hitch under the car, but definitely doable.
Chaz I was working on installing my hitch yesterday and had the hardest time getting the bolts into those holes. In this video he made a small cut on the side, but after fitting the washers in, the head of the bolt wouldn't fit. We had to bore out that hole much larger than this video shows. I was wondering if anyone else ran into this issue? I thought a file would do it, but it took hours with a file and only got one side done. I didn't use jacks either, I had plenty of clearence to work.
I used a taper file so I ended up with a triangle shaped notch, but it was similar in size to what is shown here, maybe a little smaller. I do agree that the bolt head will drive the size of the notch you need, not the washers. On the first side I would file a bit check the washer, file a bit, etc. then when the washer fit I started trying to feed everything though and got the bolt stuck. D'oh! I had to take the bolt off the fish wire and continue filing with the washer laying in the frame rail and holding the fish wire off to the side, not ideal. On the other side I used the bolt head to gauge when I was done filing.
Yea I messed up and dropped the washer in the hole and spent another few minutes trying if fish it out. I ended up borrowing a dremel for the 2nd hole and went much quicker. Installing the actual hitch took less than 20 minutes. If anyone is reading this who plans to install the hitch yourself, I recommend using the bolt to measure the hole by, don't attempt to use a file, it'll take forever. Have a ratchet extension for your ratchet and torque wrench and when positioning the hitch in place start with the driver's side first, put bolts in to hold it in place then move on to the passenger's side. Also, I'm a smaller framed women and I had my sixteen year old daughter helping me. If we had the proper tools on hand (and had the dremel to start with) this job would have gone much faster, but sadly my tool box is lacking in most things. All in all, this video is a great tutorial on how to install the hitch. It's not that diffacult and doing it yourself can save so much money to put towards other things like a really nice bike rack.
Thanks Rick. I’m planning on installing a hitch on my 2018 Crosstrek so your vid is very helpful.
Thank you VaLiamZ, glad it was helpful. Any questions just let me know, happy to help if I can.
Rick Hutton you already helped me buy my CGK Crosstrek with your amazing drone footage and firsthand experience!
Very cool! I really appreciate it. Now you need to get a Drone. :)
Thanks for the video! Installed mine today following your advice. Took 45 min maybe (had a helper).
Very cool! Glad the video was helpful. It is a nice little hitch and I towed around a 4 x 8 trailer a few times this week. Worked great.
THANK YOU FOR GETTING BACK TO ME! I LOVE THE STANCE OF THE CAR!
Another great video Rick! Very clear instructions with great pictures. Once again your production values are excellent! Cheers, Martin
Thank you so much Martin!!! Really appreciate it.
I'm going to attempt to install mine..but. what is the spray called to put on bolts and 2 wht kind of wrench can you use to tighten bolts I dont own a torque wrench
I bought the same Kit installed it myself in the driveway took just about an hour piece of cake
Nice. It is a great little hitch!
Awesome thanks! Ordered a Crosstrek, ordered this hitch, and will be using your video to install!
Very cool. Drop me an email if you have any questions. Good luck with the install. azdroptopyt@cox.net
Ordered what I thought was this hitch off Amazon. Page said for model years 2016 and newer. Received the hitch installed the same hardware and went to put the actual reciever on and it was too narrow. Went back to the Amazon page. (This is 8 months later after I originally ordered.) And has since been updated to aay it doesn't fit my vehical. Here to hopeing that curt will swap recievers with me.
Bummer sorry to hear that! I hope they work with you too. Amazon is generally good about helping out.
@@AZdroptop Amazon won't. But idk about curt. Their customer service is only open week days. So all I need is 2018 reciever and I'm hoping they will swap with me.
Oh ok. Sorry about that, I didn't realize Amazon said no. Hopefully Curt will do so. Seems like if you have all the parts they might. Best of luck with it.
Great video Rick. I just purchased this hitch on Thursday, looks like a pretty straight forward install.
Mark, Nice! It really is a quick an easy job. Let me know if I can help at all.
Thanks for the video Rick! I just bought a '19 Crosstrek last weekend at Tucson Subaru (decision made easier by watching your backroading vids before the purchase) and I just got done installing my Curt hitch. I was nervous about the front bolts barely reaching all the way through the nut and wondered if I'd done something wrong, but from your vid and others it seems that's just the way it's supposed to be. Your vid gave me some peace of mind. I'm looking forward to having a better camping vehicle than my Prius!
HI Brain, that is awesome! Great to hear the video was helpful and congrats on the the Hitch. I love having one on the car and it has been super useful. From my trailer to my hitch basket. Cheers
Thanks! You saved me time. I appreciate you taking the time to do this.
Tom, glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Greetings from Scottsdale Rick. Thanks for the vid. Just bought a 2016 Crosstrek and planning on getting the hitch on ASAP. I'm coming from a 2010 OB, so enjoying learning all the new stuff with some familiar Subie feels. Enjoy the channel, def will be looking at some OFF road easy add ons.
Cool Adam, give me a shout if you have any questions during the install. It is pretty straight forward, but sometimes those turn out to be the most difficult. :) Story of my life...LOL Thank you for watching.
Morning Rick, after researching tons on hitch mounts for my 2016 Crosstrek, Im def wanting the concealed style you have in this vid, but Trailer site can't confirm it will fit and I haven't found a concealed version that officially fits my 2016 Crosstrek. Think this one for a 2018 will fit? Thank you for your help! I appreciate you.
Hi Adam, according to etrailer.com this one will fit the 16.www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hitch/Subaru/Crosstrek/2016/C13135.html?vehicleid=201613967
YOU MADE IT LOOK EASY! EVEN THOUGH I SURE IT HAD ITS MOMENTS! A JACK STAND MIGHT OF HELPED?
THIS WILL COME IN HANDY WHEN I GET MY CROSSTREK HOPEFULLY LATER THIS YEAR? THE OLDER MODELS YOU COULD HIDE IT BEHIND THE PLASTIC BUMPER. THANK YOU AGAIN! BE SAFE! HAVE FUN! GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS! ENJOYED!
Thanks David, I thought about the jack stand, but I don't think it would have extended up high enough. It took awhile to wrestle it up into place, but honestly even doing it myself it wasn't that bad. God bless you as well and thanks for watching and commenting. Cheers
I used two 5 gallon buckets to hold the hitch up while I installed the nuts. The hardest part of this is getting the nuts on. Dealer wanted $250 to do this !
I know right! Crazy install cost. Nice job on the using of the buckets! Much better than my ninja skills :)
Very helpful. Thank you for sharing
Hi Rick
Great videos, we’re probably going to get a 2018 crosstek from Tucson Subaru, see you on the trails, live in Vail Az!
Thank you Mike! Much appreciated. My friend Trent is no longer doing sales there, but if you don't have a salesman yet give Baron Clement a call. Very close friend of Trent's and he will take care of you. Let him know I recommended him. Cheers and I hope you find a nice 18!
Direct comparison of the 2018 and an older model of the Crosstrek in the same off-road conditions would be nice :D -With same tires-
I talked a little bit about that in the Reddington off road video I think, LOL I am getting old, but to be honest, in stock form there really wasn't a huge difference. I drove that road in both cars and nothing really stands out...Other than the lack of rattles and that the 18 is quieter even off road. Hard to really say performance wise. Hopefully that helps a little.
Good video Rick. I have installed 2 of these hitches in the past...Crosstrek and Outback...and am amazed that Subaru does not manufacture built-in threaded holes to mount a trailer hitch into the frame...that would make the install a breeze. This process of creating a huge hole to thread these plates and bolts through is ridiculous. This video will be helpful to those that endeavor to self install one themselves.
Thanks Patrick. Agreed. It would be nice if the hole in the firewall was big enough for the wiring harness too. :) Cheers.
Oh yeh...that too!
Patrick Caple I believe if you use Subarus hitch than it looks directly into the frame. I remember seeing a accessory video on it on there UA-cam channel.
Yes...quite expensive...guess that's the idea.
this was the most straight forward video ive seen on this
Thank you!
Thank you for your video. It helped me a lot with installation:)
Awesome! Glad it was helpful.
Nice job! I've installed three of these (02WRX crosstrek and a jeep cherokee) Sometimes you can balance the hitch on a floor jack. but regardless its always interesting by yourself.
Thank you sir. That is a good idea. I was an adventure for sure. :) The outtakes are good on that one. LOL Did you put them on your cars? Cheers
It was mine ,the exwifes and the new girl friends. The WRX was easiest. The crosstrek was the toughest to get on.
Nice!
I think the older models were better for the hitch as they offered a hidden section where you could put the plate back when not in use to cover the hitch
I believe that little section had to be cut out if I remember correctly? My 14 had the section you are referring to, but i don't think it was replaceable? There is still a hidden hitch that can be purchased, but it is 400 vs 150. Thank you for watching!
Thank you so much!! So clean 👍🏽
Thank you!
Nice video, lm going to get the same one next week for my bike rack. Thanks Rick.
Thank you Will and you will really like it. Very straightforward install and a nice hitch. Do you ride road or Mountain? Cheers Will
mountain, but mostly for pleasure along with my wife. Thanks for the reply and cheers to you.
Great video/job! I’ll be putting one of these on mine in the spring.
Thank you sir! Very appreciated.
Good install video! This is useful if I decide to install a hitch.
Thank you sir! Appreciate it.
Yeah after seeing this great job on it and info but looks too much for me so I took mine to Subaru. :) Great hitch through!!
Thanks for doing this install vid. Really helped me out
That’s awesome! 👍🏻
Tounge weight and tow limitations are alot less on the Crosstrek itself, the hitch is beastly with a 2" receiver but you wouldn't be able to tow to it's limit. Good thing is you have more options like bike racks and foldable baskets.
Yes indeed. 1500lbs limit for towing. Not sure what the tongue weight limit is on there though. Cheers
Rick Hutton 400lb. Tounge weight on the Crosstrek 1500 tow
Ah cool, thanks for the tongue weight...Cheers.
Rick Hutton wait it's 150lbs. I don't know where I got 400.
Ooooohhhh. Ok cool. So just 150lbs in a hitch mounted basket then. Cool. thank you.
Great walkthrough. Thx.
You are welcome!
I just got my Xtrek last week and will be installing a hitch soon. I like this car-so far-but it's strange that the designers opted to remove the bumper pass through that was available on earlier models.
HI And congrats on the new Crosstrek. Well, the pass through is still there, its just that the wiring harness is too big to fit through. One subscriber, Jaime Diaz, cut the harness then used wiring connectors to reconnect after passing through the hole. I plan to follow his routing just need to take the time to do it. Here is his link if interested. Good luck with the install and let me know if I can help. www.subaruxvforum.com/forum/subaru-xv-members-journal/158361-my-2018-crosstrek-limited-build-thread-5.html
Thanks Rick, it's definitely something I'll follow and the impetus to join this forum.
Btw, I'm wondering if we're on separate pages about the pass-through. The thing I'm talking about is the 'blank' that used to be on earlier models. In the following link, it's the red trapezoid shape located on the bottom of the rear bumper... www.torquenews.com/sites/default/files/styles/news/public/image-1084/a-crosstrek_upgrades_2017.jpg
I've seen people use it to hide their hitch receiver. My bumper doesn't have it. Does yours?
Oh ok, I know what you are talking about now. Sorry about that. Yes, my 18 does not have the cut out, but my 14 did. I thought you were talking about a place for the wiring to come through. :) Sorry about that. The link did not work for me by the way.
Thank you, thank you! What a great help!
You're welcome!
Nicely done
Thank you Jesse!
i didn't have to file down the hole like you did I was able to just send the nut and washer though the larger hole and place them into the smaller... then just put the bolt and washer inside the larger... no need for the cutting of the frame
Cool!
Great video, just installed that hitch on my 2022 Crosstrek. I'm looking at how thin the medal is on the car where the trailer connects, that concerns me (being an engineer) Car is rated to tow 1500lb. My Outback also looks the same thickness and the car is rated to tow, 2700lb. I can't find any incidences on Google of hitches getting pulled off a car, so guess it is strong enough.
Thank you! I have not had any issues over the past 3 years and I have towed a decent amount.
Very helpful. Thanks for the great video!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much!
Thanks for sharing
I got mine coming tomorrow for my Forester so I can tow an extra kayak.
Awesome! I am loving having a little trailer it really makes the Crosstrek almost unstoppable. Have fun!
Rick Hutton Thanks. I just got mine installed and man what a pain in the ass that was. A 45min job became a 3 hour job. The flat piece did not fit in the hole like how I watched in the video. I had to bend it a sand it off to make it fit.
Sorry to hear that...glad it worked out in the end! Enjoy the hitch.
I saw another hitch install on youtube, where the guy took off the muffler to make the install a little easier.
Was that for the eco hitch? Can't remember. That would of helped a little on this one, but my luck I would have messed something up going that route. LOL I'm my own worst enemy sometimes. :)
I just placed an order for a Crosstrek with the oem hitch option .... I'm literally face palming throughout the whole video, seeing how easy and how much cheaper this would of been.
Oh man sorry about that! It is definitely a cheaper way to go and an easier install I believe. Any change you can cancel your order? Regardless I am sure the Subaru version is of excellent quality and will work great! best of luck
Thank you so much for the video Rick! Well done!
My son and I installed our hitch in about 40 minutes thanks to your video.
Question: I do not seem to have much bolt thread coming through the nuts on the front of the hitch. Is this common?
Hey Kevin that's great! Congrats on the new hitch. My rear bolts are the same as yours. Just a very small amount of thread beyond the nut.
Hey Rick I'm loving all the recent Crosstrek videos keep them coming, looking forward to an mpg update video. What other plans do you have for the car?
Thank you Brad, it has been a lot of fun finally doing some real mods to the car. At this point, other than putting on the black center caps when they arrive, I don't have any immediate plans. I have an amped sub that was in the 14 that I thought about installing, but I am pretty happy with the sound right now so I'll probably give it to my son. I think I will get out and do some more off road stuff and determine if a Lift is worth the time, money and further changes to the ride characteristics. Thank you for watching and commenting on her Brad...Cheers
Sorry if this question was asked already. I didn't notice if you mentioned thread locker. I just installed my curt hitch the other day after watching your video... after installing I thought, "should i have used some thread locker? "
I actually didn't use any either and she is holding up just fine so far. Nice and tight as of the other day when I checked. Probably shouldn't hurt, but wasn't recommended by etrailer.com so I didn't do it.
Thank you for this!
My pleasure! Thank you!
UA-cam saves me again. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful John!
Thank you very much for this video!
You are welcome!
So so so helpful! Thank you!
Seriously, what it up with the "Thumbs Down"?? Idiots! Rick, GREAT VIDEO!!
Thanks so much Matt. Really appreciate it.
Great video...Hope you do a wiring video too..😁
Ask and you shall receive. :) And thank you very much! Probably my favorite mod on the car. ua-cam.com/video/ary5_YKSTJA/v-deo.html
Hey Rick, love these videos man. Sorry if this has been answered before. I don't have the money for the eco hitch and wanted to know if you've noticed any significant loss in clearance or departure angle using the curt. This is the route I'd like to go, but spend a good deal of time off road.
Hey no worries, thank you for watching. I haven't noticed anything dramatic with the hitch back there and even go off road with the ball mount installed sometimes...The hitch makes for a great camera mount too. :) The biggest area I seem to rub or hit on off road is the lower front plastic lip and haven't notice much out back. Hope that helps. Cheers!
Very well detailed video. A hitch is one of those things I feel the Crosstrek needed from factory, and I was a little afraid of having to either install one or pay someone to put one on but this hitch looks amazing and installation (though taxing) looks pretty straight forward.
Do you find you have plenty of bumper clearance with the connection part (not sure the name) that sticks out?
HI Andr'e, thank you very much! If you have someone along to help lifting the hitch up the install really is very straight forward and I think you'll be able to handle just fine. No clearance issues at all after about 10,000 miles. Best of luck and thank you for watching.
Hey Rick. You're probably knee deep in your Jeep adventures but I have a quick Crosstrek question for you.
The Class 3 Curt hitch you installed. Did you have to unmount the muffler or did you manage to work around it?
Just weighing in if I should have someone install it for me or not. I installed one before years ago on a Toyota Matrix. But it was pretty straightforward with no holes to expand. Thanks!
Hi Steve, I was able to do it with out removing the muffler. It really isn't a bad job at all. Just pick up a small file if you don't have one and you'll be fine. Nice to have a helper to lift the lift up when ready, but otherwise it really isn't bad. Happy to help anytime with Crosstrek questions. I appreciate your watching.
....Great Video!
Thanks so much!
Nice to watch, helped a lot
Awesome!
Great informative video which will make installing the hitch much easier, but aren't you supposed to widen the middle hole and use that one to feed everything through. Now you've compromised the integrity of the metal that's actually supporting the hitch.
Thank you. Not sure on the middle hole, I just followed e-trailers directions when installing and so far the hitch has been solid. Best of luck with your install.
Really like the idea of just cutting a slot instead of hogging out the bolt hole. Some of the online installations really butcher the sheetmetal.. When installing the wiring kit will you run it under the car or under the hatch ? I always thought the hatch pinching the harness will eventually cause problems.
Thank you. I agree, some really cut it up unnecessarily. From what I can tell there are already holes with caps underneath so I plan to run the wires under the car and into the rear area near the spare and over to the built in wiring. Not super familiar with the process yet, but that is the tentative plan. :)
Great video, thank you.
Thank you Patrick!
Thanks for the awesome vid helped a lot
Glad to hear it was helpful!
Oh nice, so they included the fish wires?
Yep, all included in the package.