OEM hitch

[gadgetadam]

Jut got my 2008 RTL and I'm loving it. I have to visit the dealer for them to install my OEM hitch. I see in the directions for installing an OEM hitch that it comes with relays for the brake controller. Does that include a brake controller or do I still have to buy an aftermarket one?

Thanks.

-GadgetAdam

[McRidgeline]

Buying the hitch, does not include the 7 pin / 4 pin OEM trailer harness; it is seperate. You'll need some sort of harness to provide electrical power to the trailer.

Most who buy the OEM hitch also buy the OEM trailer harness kit. It includes everything you need to send power to the trailer.

The Electronic Brake controller is also seperate- there are many treads here on brands and install tips; just do a quick search. The OEM Trailer harness kit DOES inlcude a small harness that hooks up to the electronic brake controller you buy so that it should easily snap into the OEM trailer harness kit.

I'm sure others will chime in with some recommendations for you of the Brake controller. I bought and installed the OEM Hitch and harness, but have not got a controller yet. But, after towing a 3K lb camper this part week I certainly see the advantages of doing so.

Good luck.

[barthatronic]

If you don't mind me asking, what's the going rate for the OEM hitch (and/or wiring harness)?

[McRidgeline]

The dealers around me (central KY) all quoted $332 for the OEM Hitch; and $170 (approx.) for the OEM Harness.

Pretty pricey to say the least. But, I know I would be doing the installation and would be doing so by myself. So, fit was key for me.

Some of those that have bought aftermarket brand have had issues w/bent or slightly misaligned mounting brackets / holes. Possibly manufacturing issues; but usually bent in shipping. I knew I couldn't affort that issue working solo; so I went w/the OEM and have no regrets. I installed Hitch and Harness in about 3 hours working solo. Putting the Hitch on was a trick, due to weight and size; but I figured out a technique that worked for me and it went fine.

If you find a good deal on line, keep in mind shipping for a Hitch can be high- the Hitch is big and heavy- every on-line source I checked wanted $100 just to ship the hitch to me. Thus, the dealers $332 was actually cheaper for me. This isn't the case for everyone and your location will certainly control that.

Just do some searches on Hitches and you'll get the full scoop.

Have fun.

[BillB]

Buying the hitch, does not include the 7 pin / 4 pin OEM trailer harness; it is seperate. You'll need some sort of harness to provide electrical power to the trailer.

Most who buy the OEM hitch also buy the OEM trailer harness kit. It includes everything you need to send power to the trailer.

My new 2008 RTS was ordered with the OEM hitch fully installed. The cost was $750 from my dealer. It indeed included everything but the brake controller. Word of caution, the OEM hitch hangs quite low to the ground (lower than muffler tip) and takes some getting used to when backing up into spots which I have developed a habit of doing to aide in parking lot blind spot avoidance. Know what you are backing into so you do not scrape the hitch into a parking curb or jam it into a dirt bank.