After market trailer hitch [Archive]

Kungpao

08-26-2007, 04:23 PM

Click on This Thread (http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123674480)

You guys who've installed hitches... what base model do you have? We bought a CX-9 sport package and want to hitch it. The towing packages only come on the Touring and Grand Touring packages and include ECM remap, rad/trans fans/coolers. Is there something suspension wise that separates the Sport from the touring/Gt? Thanks!

mommyjamie

08-30-2007, 12:23 PM

We have looked into it. Uhaul can order them and install them. I believe it was around $250.

OMF

08-30-2007, 09:22 PM

wakblak

08-30-2007, 10:48 PM

Doesn't the OEM one require a notch in the rear bumper?

OMF

08-30-2007, 11:59 PM

Doesn't the OEM one require a notch in the rear bumper?
Yes, it does. I had to install an aftermarket hitch beause I needed a 2" square receiver for my travel trailer.

CX9 SportOwner

10-16-2007, 08:07 PM

did you buy that as part of the car or seperate as an accessory?

OMF

10-16-2007, 09:51 PM

did you buy that as part of the car or seperate as an accessory?
Separate accessory. I had to buy an OEM hitch too, just to get the wiring harness...:(((

Anybody interested to use the OEM hitch for bike attachment, or something else without electrical connections, PM me to make a deal.

wakblak

10-17-2007, 02:22 AM

Can you buy the trailer wiring part separately now?

CX9 SportOwner

10-21-2007, 09:26 PM

I cant buy the hitch in any form from Mazda. How did you manage to?

OMF

10-22-2007, 10:17 PM

I cant buy the hitch in any form from Mazda. How did you manage to?

Simply called a dealer. A GOOD one.

Kieswetter Mazda in Kitchener, Ontario: http://www.kieswettermazda.com/Contact.shtml

CX9 SportOwner

10-23-2007, 07:15 PM

I think Canada has a lot fewer lawyers than the US. I was told it was a liability issue. When the dealer calls up the part number it wont let them order one unless its a replacement for a factory installed hitch. (They check the VIN)

OMF

10-23-2007, 08:29 PM

I think Canada has a lot fewer lawyers than the US.

In total numbers for sure, not per capita.

When the dealer calls up the part number it wont let them order one unless its a replacement for a factory installed hitch. (They check the VIN)

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the hitch is a dealer install option and not available factory installed.

BTW the above dealer keeps quite a stock of various mazda hitches, so no order by VIN is necessary.

Force-1

11-17-2007, 08:08 AM

I plan on purchasing this one from Hidden Hitch. Per their web site site it's a very simple no-drill install--30 minutes.

http://www.hidden-hitch.com/prod.asp?pc=87438

Since I have no plans on towing anything (want it strictly for a bike rack), I have no concerns about wiring, cooling system upgrade, etc.

Here's a video of a CX-9 hitch install--damn simple.

http://www.etrailer.com/tv_hitch_install_mazda_mx-9_2008.aspx

dmac156

11-29-2007, 07:07 PM

CX9ZoomR

11-29-2007, 07:57 PM

This is what I ordered from etrailer.com from my 2007 CX-9 last May...

#75531 Draw-Tite Class III Round Tube Trailer Hitch Receiver @ $159.95.
#18176 Modulite Protector, Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4 Pole Trailer Connector @ $49.95
18151 Modulite Installation Wiring Kit @ $9.95

I installed the hitch myself and no drilling is necessary. 6 bolts (3 per side) came with the hitch and it bolted right up to the existing holes in the frame. Then I took the wiring harness to the local U-Haul (on a recommendation from the dealer) and they hardwired it in for me. I think it cost $75 to have them do it. Even though I only plan to tow a canoe trailer or small sailboat out to the lake during the summer (should be less than the 2000 towing capacity w/o the trailering package) I think I may still get a trans cooler installed in the spring.

Force-1

11-29-2007, 11:36 PM

EtoileBrilliant

11-30-2007, 09:08 AM

Does the installed hitch have any affect on removing the spare tire?

No, but I found removing the spare prior to mounting the hitch made the installation considerably easier. I have attached the PDF of the installation instructions with torque settings. IMO they are well written, the key tip is in bullet 1 "..pointing the receiver tube down and rotating it into position..".

Once it was in position, I repositioned the spare without any problem

CX9ZoomR

11-30-2007, 01:49 PM

I didn't have any problem with interference from the spare during installation, but getting the durn holes lined up took awhile. If you can get someone to hole the hitch in place for you while you start the bolts, or at least have a jackstand to help, that will make it a lot easier.

It doesn't look like there should be any problems lowering the spare with the hitch in place, but it may be a little more difficult to reach it once it's down...

Good Luck!

PAUL CHOUINARD

12-17-2007, 03:42 PM

I have a brand new original MAZDA CX-9 hitch (Part# 0000-8E-N01), that I don't need anymore. I bought it because the stock "Trailer Hitch Wiring Kit" (Part# 0000-8E-M04) was not immediately available as a standalone item, only in a set with the hitch.
Send me a PM if you are interested. I live in southern Ontario.

I have got the hitch from my dealer, had to wait 1 month for the factory wiring. The problem I have is that for the trailer lights to work you have to turn on the light. At night its fine but during the day time I loose the dash lights because they go deamer. Has anyone seen this issue before. The dealer has replied that they can't change this. I find it to be an safety issue.

CX9ZoomR

12-17-2007, 09:24 PM

Hi Paul.

There's a small button in the upper left hand corner of the instrument cluster. If you push in on this button, it will brighten the dash lights when you have the lights on during daytime driving. At night, just push it again to dim them back down. You can also adjust the nightime setting by turning this knob.

Good Luck!

Lindyrect

12-17-2007, 11:10 PM

Hiiden hitch has the best hitch IMO. I bought one for my other vehicle. It stays tight to the vehicle and when ordering their site will recommend any extra control units.

As for wiring harnesses. They are not always needed. In my last vehilce I used an OHM meter and mapped the tail lights and tapped off of them. The back side of the tail lights had pins on them for other wire harnesses.

OMF

12-18-2007, 08:12 AM

In my last vehilce I used an OHM meter and mapped the tail lights and tapped off of them. The back side of the tail lights had pins on them for other wire harnesses.

And you didn't run a direct power supply from the battery to feed the trailer lights??? It can easily add up to 15-20 Amps, or even more.

njerald

02-21-2008, 04:55 PM

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/MAZDA-CX-9-CX9-TRAILER-HITCH-07-08-FREE-SHIPPING_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33653QQihZ004Q QitemZ140209436477QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

ceric

03-02-2008, 03:13 AM

I installed the Hidden Hitch today (bought from Etrailer.com).
I recommend that you either
- have someone to help you hold the hitch
- have jack stands (at least 1) to support it
Otherwise, it is a difficult job for one person alone (unless you have three hands).
Also, two of the bolts (right side) are close to a black box (looks like related to spare tire). My torque wrench did not fit in there. I used regular wrench on them.

Anyway, I highly recommend the Hidden Hitch. Great product.

CX9 SportOwner

05-28-2008, 01:50 AM

Why did you pay $60 at e-trailer and THEN take it to Uhaul for installation? Uhaul has the entire kit for $50 that includes a mountable connector that not only takes a standard flat 4, but Uhaul's own individual bullet connectors, AND has a built in set of test lights. I installed mine in about an hour quite easily and is totally hidden.

sixti

06-02-2008, 03:29 AM

Hello CX9 SportOwner

What brand trailer hitch have you got mounted? It so well hidden. The pictures from Hidden Hitch look a lot more visible. Also I see you did a little bit of cutting in the rearbumper?

Best regards Jan

CX9 SportOwner

06-02-2008, 09:33 PM

It's actually a factory receiver. I had to cut out the rear apron on the factory marks that are on the inside.

I wanted a factory hitch because its the only Class I/II there is. All of the aftermarket's are 2", and I needed the 1 1/4" receiver for accessories. I also prefer the hidden look of the factory hitch.

l-miwa

08-22-2008, 06:45 PM

Apparently the 2009 CX-9's with AWD will all be equiped with the trailer towing package as standard equipment. No word on whether it will still be an option for the FWD versions.

badself

08-23-2008, 03:10 PM

Apparently the 2009 CX-9's with AWD will all be equiped with the trailer towing package as standard equipment. No word on whether it will still be an option for the FWD versions.

I researched this when I was considering ordering an '09 CX-9.

The fact is that what's standard on the '09 CX-9 is the "Tow Prep Package'',
which includes the ECU shift changes and trans coolor and such. You still have to purchase the actual bar and harness as an option, even on the '09 GT.

AWD CX-9 GT

10-09-2008, 04:44 PM

I installed Hidden Hitch, bought from etrailer, took me less than 30 minutes to install. I added thread lock to avoid bolts from loosening.

CX9 SportOwner

10-09-2008, 07:18 PM

Not as hidden as mine!

(dance)

AWD CX-9 GT

10-10-2008, 12:07 PM

I did not want to cut the bumper.

CX9 SportOwner

10-10-2008, 08:02 PM

I know
Besides, it's almost impossible to buy a factory receiver.
But I had to have the 1 1/4" and no one makes that size for the CX9.

Pretty good dancing though, huh?

not_too_shabby

03-20-2009, 05:43 PM

CX9 SportOwner

03-20-2009, 06:47 PM

Find one that uses a bolt rather than a standard pin. Or buy an add on stabilizer.

sbmrinaldi

03-21-2009, 08:35 AM

Any recommendations for 2" hitch type bike racks? I want one to handle 4 bikes and now sway back and forth like some I have seen. But I don't want to spend a fortune either....I think I am going to go with the hidden hitch from etrailer you guys mention for the receiver.

I had the Yakima Kingpin 4 which holds 4 bikes. Had this on the wifes Odyssey and sold it and now looking for another one for the CX-9. It was solid with minimal movement. They are on Ebay for $120-$140 new. Yakima replaced it with a newer model I believe, but unsure what it is called. Either way it drove the price of the Kingpin down a bit which helps.

CX9 SportOwner

03-22-2009, 12:05 AM

http://www.prolineracks.com/SportRack-A30404TW200-4-bike-towing-rack.html

http://www.prolineracks.com/Swagman-64675-tow-bike-racks.html

These are nice because they fold away and include a drawbar.

If you have play, try one of these or a Bolt/Nut type of pin

http://www.prolineracks.com/hitch-stabilizers.html

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-ar~63145-1.htm

not_too_shabby

03-22-2009, 08:26 AM

Thanks. I'll check them out.

sbmrinaldi

03-25-2009, 05:42 PM

The Yakima Kingpin is cheaper and has a great reputation.

CX9 SportOwner

03-25-2009, 06:40 PM

It's cheaper now because it's discontinued. If that's all he needs, good deal.

As I pointed out, these are less than the Yak's retail price, but may cost more now because they also include drawbars. I suggested these two in case he wanted that additional feature.

You can see how I did four bikes. I already had the 2 bike hitch rack that I fabricated, which is why I put a factory receiver on my car (1 1/4"). The roof system doubles as a two kayak stacker, so it worked well for me. In the second photo you can see the wheel forks with the kayak caps in place. In case anyone else has boats and bikes.

.

Bona

04-06-2009, 08:42 PM

For a 2" receiver hitch I like the Thule T2 and T2 Add-on. I leave the T2 on most of the time (for two bikes) and use the Add-on when there are more than two of us. It folds up, and takes seconds to load the bikes. All of my riding buddies have the same rack so we can show up at whoevers house we are meeting at and stick the T2 Addon in.

I used to have a rack where the bikes hung from above. We spent a lot of time making sure the bikes didn't swing and scratch each other. Once you've used a T2, you'll never use a hanging style rack again.

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-brft~TH918.htm?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=ppc

not_too_shabby

04-19-2009, 08:36 PM

I need to get 2 kids bikes(20" and 16") and two adult bikes(one with full suspension) on one of these carriers. Are the hanging ones better when you have bikes of all different sizes, or are the ones that that hold the wheel?

not_too_shabby

04-27-2009, 03:54 PM

Well I got one of these at a local sporting good store that was going out of business for $168.

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-br4b~TH914.htm

The reviews seemed good enough considering the price.

scottatl

06-20-2009, 09:34 PM

FYI etrailer has plenty of promo codes out, just google for an extra 5% off. etrailer coupon code

ab040501

06-27-2009, 02:45 AM

Will it void the warranty on my cx-9 if I install an after market hitch receiver?

CX9 SportOwner

06-27-2009, 02:52 AM

Only if it directly causes a problem. Like burning the transmission by towing more than non towing package rating.

ab040501

06-27-2009, 03:04 PM

What's the maximum I can tow that won't void the warranty?

If I install higher class hitch receiver and even though I did not tow heavy load and something happen to the car, will they turn around and blame me for overloading the car?

ceric

06-28-2009, 12:27 AM

The CX 9 w/o Tow package installed is rated at 2000lb.
With Tow package, it is 3500lb.
To be on the safe side, you should deduct the weight of passengers (exc. the drivers) and luggages from that value. I think the max rating was computed based on 1-driver alone.
I could be wrong on this. Maybe other experienced drivers can share their insights on this.

Installing the hitch alone will not void any warranty. If rust starts to show up near the hitch's bolts, it is another story - usually this is not a concern at all.

The responsibility to prove that you over-towed with CX9 is on the automaker, not you. If you did not, you are in the right. No fear, my friend.

CX9 SportOwner

06-28-2009, 07:31 PM

Towing rating is passengers, cargo, trailer, and trailer contents combined. Don't put 2000/3500lbs of trailer behind and expect to be within the load limit.

ab040501

07-03-2009, 07:28 PM

I'm thinking of towing a tent trailer, I don't have one yet maybe will rent one to try. The rental company said that these trailers are so light that even a regular car can tow it. I don't have any knowledge on towing and I just start reading and researching. I don't want to make any bad decision; end up spending on something doesn't fit my needs. With these requirements can I just install an OEM hitch? Your suggestions are greatly appreciated.

BTW, my CX-9 is a late 2008 GT model I got it in January 2009; I don't have a sunroof because my daughter wants the rear entertainment system. I did not order for towing package because at that time I don't know that it needs to be order as an option.

Thanks,

AB

CX9 SportOwner

07-03-2009, 07:44 PM

Standard towing is 2000 for the 2008. You can't add the towing package, but can add a receiver, your own wiring, and a trans cooler. Max towing is 3500lbs properly equipped. Even with a cooler I wouldn't push that.

I bought a factory receiver from a guy who replaced it with a 2", and did the wiring myself. If I need to tow more than 1500, I will add an outboard ATF cooler.

An OEM hitch receiver will handle 3500lbs. It's the cooling that makes the difference from standard to package capacity. I never understood why they wouldn't sell the receiver and wiring.

Renting is a great idea, to see how it tows, and works for you as a camper.

ab040501

07-03-2009, 09:26 PM

I saw on U-Haul website that they are selling the hitch, wiring and cooling system. If you install the cooling system will it void the warranty?

CX9 SportOwner

07-03-2009, 09:50 PM

If you install the cooling system will it void the warranty?

No. Not unless it directly causes a problem.

U-Haul has a nice trans cooler, and I used their wiring harness, which not only has the flat 4 connection, but the individual bullet connectors that some rentals use. It also has a built in tester.

ab040501

07-06-2009, 05:18 PM

Is there anyone from British Columbia Canada on this forum? I'm trying to buy the Hidden Hitch 87438 and it seems that most of the local dealer here

ripping off their customer.

If you look on the link below:

http://www.hidden-hitch.com/p-87438/Hidden_Hitch_Class_III_Round_Tube_Trailer_Hitch_Re ceiver-20089245-hitch-Mazda_CX9.html

Their price is US$164 and with todays exchange rate that is equivalent to CAD$186.87. Most of the dealer her are charging for similar product for

CAD$279 plus tax. It's nearly a hundred dollar more!

U-Haul on the other hand sells just for CAD$179 for model 78223? Is U-haul hitch is as good as other hitch brand? Anyone knows someone used it on

their CX-9?

Comment please, thanks.

ceric

07-06-2009, 05:59 PM

I did some research while I was purchasing the hitch.
AFAIK, there are only 3-4 hitch makers in USA. Hidden-hitch, Curt, Draw-Tite are the front runners.
There is another one in Tracy or Stockton California caled, Valley.
(for CX9, the Hidden Hitch and the Draw-Tite ones look almost exactly the same - see etrailer.com for photos)

Hidden Hitch uses a round pipe. Curt uses square pipe. Their shapes are also slightly different.
(search on ebay with "CX9 Hitch", and you will see both of them)

At the end, I preferred the Hidden Hitch so I got one from eTailer.com while it had a promotion (free-shipping beyond $X sort of thing).
They are both class-III so they should preform similarly under stress.
I don't think U-Haul makes hitches by themselves.
Their hitches are probably out-sourced from one of the said makers.

CX9 SportOwner

07-06-2009, 07:57 PM

I'm almost certain U haul makes their own towing equipment. They build their trucks themselves, and both the trucks and hitches are different from any other make I've seen.
Hidden Hitch and Draw Tite are the same. They are both owned by Cequent, along with Reese. (By the way, Hidden Hitch isn't so hidden on a CX9)
If they do contract their hitch manufacturing, I'd guess Valley makes them to Uhaul's specifications. (Uhaul receivers have an extra gusset on top)

I've used U Haul balls and wiring, and all performed well. They also seem to put more thought into their products. As I said before, their wiring harness not only has the flat 4 connection like other brands, but also the individual bullet connectors that some rentals use. It also has a built in tester to check the wiring when you're done.

They also tend to exceed safety standards for their balls and receivers. And, you can also get a lifetime no questions warranty for $5.

You can also get one of these: http://store.uhaul.com/Hitch_balls__mounts/Moving/Animated_Hitch_Ball_Covers

ceric

07-07-2009, 01:39 AM

SportsOwner,
I must have been mistaken by this page...
http://www.nissanmurano.org/forums/showthread/t-9129.html
People called Curt and they admitted that U-Haul (some, at least) hitches are same as Curt (i.e. OEM is Curt Engineering). I am not saying ALL, but, if I were U-Haul, my core competency should not be making hitches. I might design them (or ask for improvements), but certainly not manufacturing them.

ab040501

07-07-2009, 03:00 AM

I need comments on this Valley Hitch:

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-H~V88061.htm?vehicleid=2008208639

Is there any disadvantage having the integrated 4-pole wiring?

Also my main concern is that Valley hitch for CX-9 uses only 2 hex bolts on each side total of 4 compare to Hidden and Draw-Tite that uses 6 bolts? If I tow more that 3000lbs will this not be a big concern at all?

CX9 SportOwner

07-07-2009, 12:05 PM

I was just guessing, to be honest. I still think whoever makes them does so according to U haul specific specs, but I'm sure they are as good as anything else out there.

I'd get 2 extra bolts. The factory receiver is mounted with 6. Is the Valley drilled for 6?

ab040501

07-07-2009, 12:25 PM

Valey is only using 4 bolts.

ceric

07-07-2009, 12:35 PM

I also ruled out Valley due to its 4-bolts design. It just seemed weaker to me.
However, I am sure they tested it to get that rating (class III) so, it is up to you.

A similar argument was presented by Hidden saying that round pipes are stronger than square ones. So, go figure. I am no mechanical engineer, but it makes sense to me.

CX9 SportOwner

07-07-2009, 01:22 PM

Don't forget to consider the stress on the car itself. Towing a trailer from 4 threaded attachment points vs. 6 will add stress to each point.

ab040501

07-07-2009, 07:14 PM

I guess it's a matter of personal choice, I don't want ending up loosing what I'm towing or worst can cause death to accident because something broke while I'm driving. On the issue of stressing the car I think following the towing capacity carefully will easily rule this issue out. Does this make any sense?

CX9 SportOwner

07-07-2009, 07:17 PM

What I meant was putting the towing force on 4 bolts and threads, rather than 6. With 6 you get 50% more shear strength.

ceric

07-07-2009, 08:43 PM

From marketing perspective, making a hitch with only 4 bolts while competitors have 6 is simply BAD MARKETING. Valley's marketing people should be spanked for that.
Consumers don't need scientific data. To them, it is simple enough.

Honda used to have 4 bolts on their wheels, while Toyota always have 5. I knew people who don't buy Honda just because of that. Strange, but who is there to argue?

hamproof

07-07-2009, 10:09 PM

Honda used to have 4 bolts on their wheels, while Toyota always have 5. I knew people who don't buy Honda just because of that. Strange, but who is there to argue?

That's not entirely true. I recall Paseo and older Corolla have 4 bolt pattern. Earlier Civics and CRX have 4 as well, but now only the Fit has 4 bolt pattern.

Similarly Toyota Yaris appears to be the only model that has 4 bolt pattern as well.

ab040501

07-08-2009, 02:57 AM

Are there any retail stores for hitches bike racks in Bellingham Washington? If you know one please response to this message thanks.

ceric

07-08-2009, 03:16 AM

That's not entirely true. I recall Paseo and older Corolla have 4 bolt pattern. Earlier Civics and CRX have 4 as well, but now only the Fit has 4 bolt pattern.

Similarly Toyota Yaris appears to be the only model that has 4 bolt pattern as well.
My bad. I owned more Honda/Acura (4) than Toyota (1)

CX9 SportOwner

07-08-2009, 12:26 PM

Are there any retail stores for hitches bike racks in Bellingham Washington? If you know one please response to this message thanks.

You'll get much better prices from E trailer or Proline Racks. Proline ships fast, too. Don't know about Etrailer.

http://www.prolineracks.com/hitch-mounted-bike-racks.html

http://www.etrailer.com/c-hitch-racks.htm