Trailer Hitch

[mazdaFIVEmike]

Has anyone put a Class I Trailer Hitch on yet? I have a small trailer that I use for hauling everything from motorbikes to garden waste... I have been getting mixed opinions out there so I thought I'd see what others have done or considered. Unfortunately, the manual says do not tow anything. But I can't imagine a small trailer towing less than 2000 pounds can have too much of an effect on the car.

Thoughts???

[Zoom5Zoom]

You have to repect the Gross Vehicle Weight Specs. The problem is that if you tow a trailer and that is 2000 Lbs tongue weight and you carry people well you know what you will exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Classification. OK enough with the technical stuff. If you tow and you break the rating of your Mazda 5 GWGR status you will risk two things:

1) YOU CANT STOP THE CAR THE BRAKES WONT STOP THE WEIGHT UR PULLING
2) YOUR TRANNY WILL FRY

ok so if you want to tow 2K of weight rent a truck for the weekend or reduce the weight abit.

[Wytchdctr]

If the manual says dont tow and a dealer sees a hitch.. you smoke your trans... you just gave them a way out. I wouldn't do it.

[mazdaFIVEmike]

Thanks folks.

I plan to talk to Mazda this week to see what they say - especially about the warranty.

I certainly don't plan on hauling a fifth wheel... haha

I'll keep you posted on what Mazda has to say.

[miatafied]

I coulda swore that there were a couple folks here that had trailer hitches for their bike racks. Considering one for a bike rack in the semi-near future. Also - an occasional motorcycle or something -but 2000lbs tongue weight? I thought that actual hitch weight/tongue weight for a 2000lb or less trailer ended up being only about 200lbs. I was considering a travel trailer like this one:http://www.tab-rv.com/graphics/tour/exterior_orange.jpg


Too bad it costs almost as much as my 5 for a new one!


If my miata can tow something like this:

http://www.seriousauto.com/hitch/miata&bike1.jpg

Then, I'd think that the 5 should be just as capable.

[X10James]

When we attached a u-haul to the back of my wifes ford probe (she was my girlfriend then and I was helping her move cross country) They added a transmission cooler in addition to the trailer hitch to keep it from frying.

My only complaint about the install was that they just ran the rubber pipes under the frame beam in front so that they hung below it and I could just picture her pulling up to a curb and cutting them off below it spraying transmission fluid all over the place and killing it a few moments later for good.

Could a transmission cooler be added to the 5 to help out when pulling a bit more load?

[Fly on the Wall]

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/10/web/2170000-2170999/2170861_11_full.jpg

More details here:
Mazda5 hitch installed (http://mazda5club.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=11465&start=0&sid=8a03f655c7456327d6a1f015168a7495)

I don't tow a trailer, but use it for a rack.

[mazdaFIVEmike]

More details here:
Mazda5 hitch installed (http://mazda5club.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=11465&start=0&sid=8a03f655c7456327d6a1f015168a7495)

I don't tow a trailer, but use it for a rack.

Awesome!! Thanks Fly!! And my 5 is the same colour - perfect thanks for the pic! Is that the Curt hitch you have? Also, how tough was it for you to get a drill up under the bumper to enlarge the holes for the bolts?

I spoke to my dealership today and they strongly recommended against towing anything with the 5. I think its mostly because the engine is underpowered for the car although that was not the 'official' reason. I said I wanted it for a bike rack and they said that would be fine. I made a comment about warranty and just merely having the hitch could void my warranty and they said that in the absence of wiring - they would know I wasn't doing any towing.

Hey Miatafied - looks like your camper idea is out. I too wanted to haul something similar to what you have your Miata hooked up to. I'm really disappointed now that I can't, especially after the salesman told me that I should have no problem with towing something like that before I bought the car. I guess next time I'll ask to see the owner's manual first.

[Zoom5Zoom]

Mike

To install the Curtis it is easy. The drilling is easy to access because you only have to enlarge the rear bumper bolt holes. Ensure when you enlarge the holes you use some paint to cover bare metal.

As for the process the most difficult part will be feeding the blind bolts in the bumper. From under the car looking up feed both blind bolts from the Left side. On the right side you will fight with the muffler.

BTW Curtis is 200 lbs tongue weight great for bikes.

[miatafied]

unbelievably - that tab trailer only has a tongue weight of 154 - is that possible? If so - it would seem that you'd be fine w/ the curtis

http://www.tab-rv.com/specs/dimensions.php

[Rocket]

FWIW, I used the power coming to the rear cigarette lighter to power the trailer converter. That kept me from having to run a wire up to the battery.

[mazdaFIVEmike]

FWIW, I used the power coming to the rear cigarette lighter to power the trailer converter. That kept me from having to run a wire up to the battery.

How does this work? You still need to have the signal/brake functionality to have the trailer legal... can you explain more?

[Zoom5Zoom]

mike

I think there is a kit now availible now for the Mazda 5 wire conversion from 5 wire to a 4 wire system or something like that. I will inquire when I put my hitch on this weekend.

[Rocket]

How does this work? You still need to have the signal/brake functionality to have the trailer legal... can you explain more?

The trailer light kits come with a converter box that uses its own power supply to power the trailer lights. The reason is that the power going to the vehicle lights is not enough to also power the trailer. Plus, a short in the trailer could fry the vehicle lights. You can pull a wire from the battery to the converter, or you use the power off the rear cigarette lighter. But if you use the rear cigarette lighter, it is ignition switched power, which means the trailer lights will only work when the car is running. Big deal you say, but if you have to pull off the road due to engine trouble the flashers would not work on the trailer. But I see that as a remote possibility.

[mazdaFIVEmike]

The trailer light kits come with a converter box that uses its own power supply to power the trailer lights. The reason is that the power going to the vehicle lights is not enough to also power the trailer. Plus, a short in the trailer could fry the vehicle lights. You can pull a wire from the battery to the converter, or you use the power off the rear cigarette lighter. But if you use the rear cigarette lighter, it is ignition switched power, which means the trailer lights will only work when the car is running. Big deal you say, but if you have to pull off the road due to engine trouble the flashers would not work on the trailer. But I see that as a remote possibility.


So you are still tapping into the vehicles wiring for the signal/brake functions then?

If so, this is what my dealer told me could potentially void your warranty on transmission/engine/brakes...

[Rocket]

So you are still tapping into the vehicles wiring for the signal/brake functions then?

If so, this is what my dealer told me could potentially void your warranty on transmission/engine/brakes...

My interpretation of what the dealer is telling you is that if there are no provisions for trailer lights installed in your car, you can say you never pulled a trailer. You only used the hitch for a bike rack or cargo carrier. If there is a provision for lights, then how can you claim that you never pulled a trailer? Why would you need lights if you don't pull a trailer?

[mazdaFIVEmike]

My interpretation of what the dealer is telling you is that if there are no provisions for trailer lights installed in your car, you can say you never pulled a trailer. You only used the hitch for a bike rack or cargo carrier. If there is a provision for lights, then how can you claim that you never pulled a trailer? Why would you need lights if you don't pull a trailer?

If I'm understanding you correctly... that's my whole point - I want to pull a small trailer. If there was a way that I could do this without wiring the lights, I'd be all over it, but, I'm not going to pull a trailer without lights.

If someone hit you and you didn't have lights.... well... all hell could break loose.

I guess I had the impression that there was some kind of kit out there that could tap into power and signal/brake functionality without hard wiring to the vehicles systems.... perhaps a little naive of me... but these days - you just never know what someone might come up with.(confused)

[Rocket]

If I'm understanding you correctly... that's my whole point - I want to pull a small trailer. If there was a way that I could do this without wiring the lights, I'd be all over it, but, I'm not going to pull a trailer without lights.

If someone hit you and you didn't have lights.... well... all hell could break loose.

I guess I had the impression that there was some kind of kit out there that could tap into power and signal/brake functionality without hard wiring to the vehicles systems.... perhaps a little naive of me... but these days - you just never know what someone might come up with.(confused)

Sorry, I don't know of anything like that. Funny, up until two years ago, the law in SC was if the vehicle lights could be seen while pulling the trailer, the trailer did not need lights. That would have solved your problem!

[Zoom5Zoom]

HELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLPPPPPPP

Hell I did a dry run on the hitch installation and now found out I need to remove the bumper to install a curtis hitch. I thought in todays day we could install blind bolts that could support a hitch.

I found that to install the side bolts for the support of the hitch there is no access point to install the hardware as the bumper is a hollow member with no avenue to make a turn into the bumper mounting points.

Does anyone have an Idea or some damn new methods to install the side bolts............

thanks

[Rocket]

HELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLPPPPPPP

Hell I did a dry run on the hitch installation and now found out I need to remove the bumper to install a curtis hitch. I thought in todays day we could install blind bolts that could support a hitch.

I found that to install the side bolts for the support of the hitch there is no access point to install the hardware as the bumper is a hollow member with no avenue to make a turn into the bumper mounting points.

Does anyone have an Idea or some damn new methods to install the side bolts............

thanks

Mine installed no problem. The side bolts were the easiest. Can you take a picture for us?

[mazdaFIVEmike]

Sorry, I don't know of anything like that. Funny, up until two years ago, the law in SC was if the vehicle lights could be seen while pulling the trailer, the trailer did not need lights. That would have solved your problem!


I thought of that too... because this trailer is so low and the lights on the 5 are high.... hmmm.... I really doubt that here in British Columbia we would be allowed to do that... but no harm in asking.

[Zoom5Zoom]

See there ya go... left the job to a mechanic at the shop and he obviously did not look at instructions.

I did some reading and found the end bolts go straight thru the bumper support. Thanks for the help.

Installed the hitch in about 35 min or so (really was a 1 pint job for those that cant tell time). Only had to enlarge the two lower attachment points for bolt to fit in the hole. Painted up the new bolts and presto new hitch installed.

Below are some pics....

May the youth of the world start to read (ughdance)

[mazdaFIVEmike]

See there ya go... left the job to a mechanic at the shop and he obviously did not look at instructions.

I did some reading and found the end bolts go straight thru the bumper support. Thanks for the help.

Installed the hitch in about 35 min or so (really was a 1 pint job for those that cant tell time). Only had to enlarge the two lower attachment points for bolt to fit in the hole. Painted up the new bolts and presto new hitch installed.

Below are some pics....

May the youth of the world start to read (ughdance)

Very nice Zoom5Zoom - well done!

Where did you get your hitch and what did you pay for it?

What tools did you need?

Are you planning to install wiring for towing??

[Zoom5Zoom]

Very nice Zoom5Zoom - well done!

Thanks

Where did you get your hitch and what did you pay for it?

I got my hitch from the dealer. It is a curtis hitch.....

What tools did you need?

Electric Drill (to enlarge lower holes), Snag wire to feed bolts down bumper to drop in holes and lastly rachet set.

Are you planning to install wiring for towing??

Not yet as I have a second vehicle for towing our trailer. But because the lights on the 5 are so high my trailer is just a canadian tire 4x4 ft special (like I can even carry it into my shed) I will most likely not wire it.

[mazdaFIVEmike]

Very nice Zoom5Zoom - well done!

Thanks

Where did you get your hitch and what did you pay for it?

I got my hitch from the dealer. It is a curtis hitch.....

What tools did you need?

Electric Drill (to enlarge lower holes), Snag wire to feed bolts down bumper to drop in holes and lastly rachet set.

Are you planning to install wiring for towing??

Not yet as I have a second vehicle for towing our trailer. But because the lights on the 5 are so high my trailer is just a canadian tire 4x4 ft special (like I can even carry it into my shed) I will most likely not wire it.


Thanks Zoom5Zoom

I looked into the Motor Vehicle Act here in BC and it states that all trailers must have functioning lights for brakes and signals.

I was hoping the lights on the 5 would be enough seeing that I have a low profile trailer as well.

Thanks for all your info and input.

[afticarab]

Great install on the hitch. I have tried to locate Curtis hitch and am not having much luck. I have though found a Curt hitch model C11338/DH247338 http://search.cartserver.com/search/search.cgi?cartid=a-9041&bool=AND&category=c1_receiv_01&maxhits=1&keywords=gl0033&GO=GO%21
Would this be the same item?. You mentioned that you purchased from your dealer in Ottawa, are you not worried about voiding the warranty. Can you provide further details on pricing and if it is a Curtis, what the model number it is / website etc.

Thanks much

[Zoom5Zoom]

I am not worried about warrenty as I will be used correctly. As for model looks like you got it. The image is noted as not being exact and for sure the one you see in that link is indeed not the one. There is one in stock at performance mazda if you want it. Ask for Dave tell em you where sent from the Forum.:)

[mazdaFIVEmike]

I finally got a hitch installed - no wiring - I haven't decided on what to do in that regard.

I went with the U-Haul Hitch - looks very similar (if not exactly the same) to the Curtis hitch.

I had the U-Haul guys do the install. Cost $210 CDN including all taxes and lifetime warranty for replacement in the event of accident or stupidity!!

[Tranquil]

Hi

Noob here.

Here is a link to a gallery of my factory fittet hitch. (http://www.uploadit.org/gallery/14240)

Just thought you might want to compare yours to mine. (burnout)

When I ordered my, 5 having it without a tow hook was out of the question.

[Chi]

I purchased a Mazda 5, as did my daughter. We never dreamed it would be a problem. We finally found a hitch at U-Haul after failing everywhere else. They sent us to Mazda for light harness but of course, Mazda don't make one. They told me the car was not slated to haul and therefore no electricals would be made. He did tell me that did not mean it was not capable of hauling. Our problem is that we now have the hitch and have to get our 12 foot aluminum boat to our cottage which is 100 miles away. We would have to do back roads as we have no lights. U-haul tried for two hours to cut into a harness and install lights but were unable to do so. Once at the cottage, we only need to pull it a few hundred yards when we put it in the water and that would only be a couple of times a weekend so am not concerned about that. Do you think we will ruin my daughter's car by hauling it the once to our cottage. I have no idea how heavy a trailer is and a 12 foot aluminum boat. Her boyfriend has a Mazda 3 so we are out of luck. Never had this happen before. Our cars always pulled it with no trouble. They never tell you these things before purchasing. Don't know what to do.

[jandree22]

I purchased a Mazda 5, as did my daughter. We never dreamed it would be a problem. We finally found a hitch at U-Haul after failing everywhere else.... .....Our cars always pulled it with no trouble. They never tell you these things before purchasing. Don't know what to do.
Well, considering it has a 2.3L 4 banger in an already 3400lb. vehicle... I'm personally not too surprised it wasn't designed for towing ;) 15 min. of research into the car before buying could've revealed this. Dealerships won't tell you more than they have to to sell you the car. For instance, if you would've specifically asked, he would've been straight with you about the towing, but he's not gonna go out of his way to tell you it can't if you don't ask. Not that I think all salesmen are slime, the one I'm working with has been wonderful, but unless they know specifically your intention to tow with the vehicle, they're not gonna just randomly bring it up for discussion.

I do understand towing isn't a frequent occurance for you. However, if you say you've towed it with cars fine before, that's not necessarily saying a whole lot as these cars may have had a decent V6 (torque) under the hood? It's hard to say if you'd be okay or not as I have no clue what a 12ft. boat weighs... however I assume it also has an outboard motor? The motor in itself could pack on 500lbs. There's really too many unanswered questions about specifically the weight you're planning to tow. Perhaps you should check into renting a truck for the day or two?

All that lecture being said, I'm genuinely sorry about the situation you're in and hope that you can get something worked out!

[Chi]

The motor is already at the cottage so it is not a problem and it isn't that big. Wouldn't weight 500 lbs. Guess we are just not too bright. I had no idea all cars couldn't pull a trailer. I figured that the small ones couldn't but thought anything of a reasonable size could. Anyway, I believe the boat is 32.2 kg which would translate into about 708 pounds but don't know the weight of the trailer. Chi

[Medicman]

Guys,
Can you provide any more details on the wiring kit ( apparently made for the MPV) that hook directly to the battery ??

Thanks.

Medicman.

PS - In relation to the initial thread, I plan on towing a 4x8 utility trailer, just to haul bikes and coolers for camping. I will purchase a tranny cooler for the 5 as well, does Mazda sell these too ?? ( Maybe also made for the MPV ?)

[Medicman]

And to add another note, there is a Mazda5 GT in my town and he does haul a utility trailer around...he said the dealership told him just to bring it back to them if he had any problems...

[Chi]

Does it have lights on the trailer?

[Medicman]

As far as I can tell... yes....
but I could be wrong !

[jandree22]

Anyway, I believe the boat is 32.2 kg which would translate into about 708 pounds but don't know the weight of the trailer. Chi
Chi, IMO that's not that bad... it's probably doable on a limited basis. Use low gears ;)

[was98strat]

The motor is already at the cottage so it is not a problem and it isn't that big. Wouldn't weight 500 lbs. Guess we are just not too bright. I had no idea all cars couldn't pull a trailer. I figured that the small ones couldn't but thought anything of a reasonable size could. Anyway, I believe the boat is 32.2 kg which would translate into about 708 pounds but don't know the weight of the trailer. Chi

Umm, 32.2 kgs translates to 70 lbs not 708. Or about the weight of a child

[Chi]

Sorry. It weighs about 332 kg.

[mazdaFIVEmike]

Dealerships won't tell you more than they have to to sell you the car. For instance, if you would've specifically asked, he would've been straight with you about the towing, but he's not gonna go out of his way to tell you it can't if you don't ask. Not that I think all salesmen are slime, the one I'm working with has been wonderful, but unless they know specifically your intention to tow with the vehicle, they're not gonna just randomly bring it up for discussion.


My salesman told me I should have no problems towing a small trailer - and I did specifically ask about it. Next time I'm going to ask to see the owner's manual.

[mazdaFIVEmike]

As far as I can tell... yes....
but I could be wrong !

Having lights is one thing - Having FUNCTIONING lights is a whole new ball game!!

[Medicman]

I am going to check out a plug and play kit for the lights today at Princess auto..

[jandree22]

Having lights is one thing - Having FUNCTIONING lights is a whole new ball game!!
I get a kick out of people that seemingly hook in the plug backwards, so when their car is signalling left, their trailer is signalling right. However, athough somewhat humerous, it can be a dangerous situation for those that don't realize what's going on.

[Medicman]

Maybe I'll just get a farm slow moving veh sign !!

[mazdaFIVEmike]

I am going to check out a plug and play kit for the lights today at Princess auto..

Any luck???

[Medicman]

Any luck???
Noper...
Heres a few pics of the "custom" trailer hitch.
81725


He reinforced it in a couple of places.. I think it'll work !!

[Zoom5Zoom]

Add this strip to protect rear bumper from hitch attaching errors

http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123637633

[mazdaFIVEmike]

Got a new hitch cover for some fun.

Oddly enough I got the Canadian Maple Leaf from a guy in Texas! Its home made from aluminum and is very well done.(canada)

Secured with a locking hitch pin I got with my bike rack.

[Philster]

A few comments/questions about the towing issue. I'm looking to purchase a Europeen style trailer tent which will weigh approx 800 lbs (much less then North American pop-up which weigh a minimum of 1200 lbs). The trailer also comes with brakes.

Notwitstanding the no-towing mention in the manual, I think I would be OK and I say this for the following reasons:

1. I assume that the mention "not rated for towing" simply means that Mazda has not tested for towing here in North America, therefore cannot give a rating as opposed to the car simply not being able to tow anything.

2. All Mazda cars in NA are rated the same way (the 3, 5 and 6). If the reason why the 5 cant tow is due to the fact that it has the same specs as the 3 but is a bigger car, than logically the 3 should be able to tow something ...

3. The 5 in all EU countries indicate a 600kg tow capacity without breaks and 1300kg with brakes (and that's with a smaller petrole engine of 2.0 litres)

4. I will not be towing with a car full of overweight adults! just my wife and I and two small kids that weigh a compined of 70 pounds! I don't expect to carry more than 100 pounds of stuff.

I understand I may be taking a risk as far as warranty but it's one I'm willing to take. After a few local trips, if I see that this isn't working I will likely trade in the car for something like a Kia Rondo (which has a towing capacity of 2000 pounds with similar 2.3 160hp engine!) I have an open lease on this one so I can turn it in at anytime.

Regarding hitch, i called two places and both can install a class 1 (Curt or Reese) on the vehicule no problem, for somewhere around 300$ (with electricity for lights)

...so any comments?

[Medicman]

I have seen a Mazda5 brochure from Europe and Philster is correct on the tow ratings.. maybe Mazda NA thinks us North americans will overload and over tow with our 5's ??

[Zoom5Zoom]

A few comments/questions about the towing issue. I'm looking to purchase a Europeen style trailer tent which will weigh approx 800 lbs (much less then North American pop-up which weigh a minimum of 1200 lbs). The trailer also comes with brakes.

Notwitstanding the no-towing mention in the manual, I think I would be OK and I say this for the following reasons:

1. I assume that the mention "not rated for towing" simply means that Mazda has not tested for towing here in North America, therefore cannot give a rating as opposed to the car simply not being able to tow anything.

2. All Mazda cars in NA are rated the same way (the 3, 5 and 6). If the reason why the 5 cant tow is due to the fact that it has the same specs as the 3 but is a bigger car, than logically the 3 should be able to tow something ...

3. The 5 in all EU countries indicate a 600kg tow capacity without breaks and 1300kg with brakes (and that's with a smaller petrole engine of 2.0 litres)

4. I will not be towing with a car full of overweight adults! just my wife and I and two small kids that weigh a compined of 70 pounds! I don't expect to carry more than 100 pounds of stuff.

I understand I may be taking a risk as far as warranty but it's one I'm willing to take. After a few local trips, if I see that this isn't working I will likely trade in the car for something like a Kia Rondo (which has a towing capacity of 2000 pounds with similar 2.3 160hp engine!) I have an open lease on this one so I can turn it in at anytime.

Regarding hitch, i called two places and both can install a class 1 (Curt or Reese) on the vehicule no problem, for somewhere around 300$ (with electricity for lights)

...so any comments?

If you dont surpass the Gross Weight rating on the 5 (located on drivers door or seam) then your ok....

If you have ever towed and lost breaks due to overloading and overheating breaks, it is one hell of a feeling not to able to stop your car.

I don't know why EU and NA cars have diff ratings....

FYI I have a hitch

[Philster]

If you dont surpass the Gross Weight rating on the 5 (located on drivers door or seam) then your ok....

If you have ever towed and lost breaks due to overloading and overheating breaks, it is one hell of a feeling not to able to stop your car.

I don't know why EU and NA cars have diff ratings....

FYI I have a hitch

So if I get this right, you take the Gross weight (4572 lbs according to what I fond on the internet) minus the Curb weight (3389 lbs for the grand-Touring) = 1183 lbs. I'm guessing this should include passengers, cargo and trailer? (I'm going to be cutting it close).

[Zoom5Zoom]

So if I get this right, you take the Gross weight (4572 lbs according to what I fond on the internet) minus the Curb weight (3389 lbs for the grand-Touring) = 1183 lbs. I'm guessing this should include passengers, cargo and trailer? (I'm going to be cutting it close).
yup you got that right.

This is why mazda does not allow towing with the 5.

[Philster]

yup you got that right.

This is why mazda does not allow towing with the 5.

Finally I called my Mazda dealership and asked to speak to the head mechanic. I asking him point blank. I told him I was looking for his opinion as an experienced mechanic and not the Mazda official line. The answer: no problem up to 1500 pounds.. Look's like I'm getting the hitch installed this weekend!

[AIMWO4]

I'm from Victoria. Can you be more specific about where you got the leaf? You can e-mail me if you like.

Where in Vic are you? The area in your pics looks familiar. Some of my family are in Mill Bay & Sooke as well.

Johnny

Got a new hitch cover for some fun.

Oddly enough I got the Canadian Maple Leaf from a guy in Texas! Its home made from aluminum and is very well done.(canada)

Secured with a locking hitch pin I got with my bike rack.

[raspykart]

the Gross Vehicle Weight would only need to include the tongue weight of the trailer not the entire trailer weight. Then when you get into how much weight you can tow, it depends on the sturdyness of the tow vehicle and its engine tranny capacity. I've done a good amount of towing in my time, and my gut tells me 1000-1500lbs could be ok, but bare in mind braking ability, hills, and how much stuff will be in the 5 while towing. The length and width of the trailer can play into how well the 5 will do also.... tracking wise.

[scknight2]

If anyone is interested, I have an extra class I Curt trailer hitch for sale. I bought two, one for my 5 and one for a friends, but now they don't want it. It has never been installed. The hitch installs quite easily and is barely noticeable on the car.

Steve

[zoomy]

If you could email me the price for the hitch shipped to zip code 99207, Spokane WA, I might be interested. Thanks!

davesmart (at) hotmail.com

[kyoshiro]

getting a class 1 hitch installed @ cap-it in richmond next week 189 for the hitch n 40 bucks labour before tax

[mazdaFIVEmike]

getting a class 1 hitch installed @ cap-it in richmond next week 189 for the hitch n 40 bucks labour before tax

Check out U-Haul - I got mine installed for $210 CDN in Victoria including taxes and installation.

[kyoshiro]

paid 100 bucks deposit already, oh well, atleast i save on gas lol

[kyoshiro]

http://www.kyoshiro.net/car/DSC01888.JPG

[radiohead]

I realize Mazda does not recommend hooking a trailer to a Mazda 5.

Has anyone determined where can we buy a trailer lights conversion kit how to connect it to a Mazda 5?

Thank you

[mazdaFIVEmike]

I realize Mazda does not recommend hooking a trailer to a Mazda 5.

Has anyone determined where can we buy a trailer lights conversion kit how to connect it to a Mazda 5?

Thank you

I had the guys at a local trailer shop install the lights hook-up for me - cost about $160CDN and that was awhile ago for my '06 but I would imagine the '08 is the same.

If I can see the model # on the unit I'll repost.

[monsta]

Has anyone determined where can we buy a trailer lights conversion kit how to connect it to a Mazda 5?

Thank you

Go to Wal-Mart and get a 5-wire to 4-wire (if that is what your trailer is) connector made by HOPPY'S.

It is quite easy to add a trailer hook-up to it. The directions are enclosed and all you really need are some vise grips to connect the quick splice connectors. :)

[monsta]

kyoshiro, is that picture big enough?? :D

[wmzda5]

kyoshiro, is that rear reflector lit or just reflecting some light. I think it is lit
How do you hook it up. Your DIY instruction is greatly appreciated...thanks

[rweatherford]

Looks like U-Haul has square receiver hitches for $120. Not installed.

[coolmazda5]

kyoshiro, is that picture big enough?? :D

LoL

I just see the bumper reflector, it looks bigger than in real life (Is it the European spec?) And, Where is the hitch? ;)

[rweatherford]

Try scrolling sideways with the scrollbar at the bottom of your internet viewer.

[coolmazda5]

Try scrolling sideways with the scrollbar at the bottom of your internet viewer.

...but my video memory buffer overflowed and the browser crashed while scrolling before I got to the middle of the pic, LOL...

(***) <-- Sarcastic Smiley added here :D

[rweatherford]

(coffee)Sorry I didn't catch on.............

[mazdaFIVEmike]

I had the guys at a local trailer shop install the lights hook-up for me - cost about $160CDN and that was awhile ago for my '06 but I would imagine the '08 is the same.

If I can see the model # on the unit I'll repost.

Here she be...

Hidden Hitch
Powerline Lite 5amp
Model #31825

Photo shows location beside tire jack - driver's side.

[stykerdk]

Here is a little help from europe you can use this wiring kit, its plugandplay into the back of the rear lights
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/7-Pin-Car-Specific-Towbar-Wiring-Mazda-5-MPV-05ON_W0QQitemZ380003007386QQihZ025QQcategoryZ33653 QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD1VQQ_trksidZp1638.m118.l1247Q QcmdZViewItem
I could only find the original on the german Mazda site
Its this mazda part nr
CC29-V3-921 price € 65,18

The original european towbar i completely invisible when the hook isnt fitted
you can see it here.
http://www.uploadit.org/gallery/14240
And don worry about towing with a 5, my diesel 6speed MT must tow 1650kgs and the petrol models must tow 1400kgs as standard here in denmark.
Good luck
Jens

[07MZ5SA]

kyoshiro, is that rear reflector lit or just reflecting some light. I think it is lit
How do you hook it up. Your DIY instruction is greatly appreciated...thanks

It's only reflecting unless each reflector assembly contains 100+ LEDs.