Muffler height after hitch install

808 Views 3 Replies 4 Participants Last post by OhSix, Jan 22, 2017

scubacamper

Discussion Starter · Jan 21, 2017

G1 ridgeline
Just installed the Curt 13385 hitch. Part of the instructions direct the installer to fasten the rear muffler hanger to the threaded stud on the hitch instead of the original stud on the vehicle.
I was hesitant to do this as it makes the muffler sit lower than before, reducing clearance.
However, after securing the forward hanger, it became clear why this is required: the muffler makes contact with the hitch and would likely cause noise and perhaps negatively impact the hitch's integrity due to heat transfer.
I'm still concerned about the reduced clearance. Has anyone who's installed the Curt hitch experienced any clearance issues because of this?
Or is this a moot point due to the receiver already hanging lower than the bumper?

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Carsmak

· #2 · Jan 22, 2017

I've had the Curt hitch for possibly 10 years with no clearance issues. I guess with some off-road situations it could be an issue. I think someone posted using a double rubber hanger and a different hook setup to place it back on the factory location. If I remember who did that, I'll add a link.

Good Luck

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McChizzle

· #3 · Jan 22, 2017 (Edited)

I find it interesting the issue you are having with the aftermarket hitch. After watching Honda's installation video for the OEM hitch, it seems the OEM one does not have this problem with the muffler. If it continues to bother you, maybe you should consider swapping it out for Honda's OEM class III hitch.

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OhSix

· #4 · Jan 22, 2017

scubacamper said:
G1 ridgeline
Just installed the Curt 13385 hitch. Part of the instructions direct the installer to fasten the rear muffler hanger to the threaded stud on the hitch instead of the original stud on the vehicle.
I was hesitant to do this as it makes the muffler sit lower than before, reducing clearance.
However, after securing the forward hanger, it became clear why this is required: the muffler makes contact with the hitch and would likely cause noise and perhaps negatively impact the hitch's integrity due to heat transfer.
I'm still concerned about the reduced clearance. Has anyone who's installed the Curt hitch experienced any clearance issues because of this?
Or is this a moot point due to the receiver already hanging lower than the bumper?

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I installed the Curt hitch a year or 2 ago. Had the same "issue" you are experiencing. Although not perfect, my current solution is a universal/multi-port hanger. The threaded stud welded to the hitch isn't used.

What happens is the muffler tip actually touches the hitch frame but I'm not hearing noise or seeing signs of wear on the hitch finish or muffler tip. It's a $6 solution that's worked well so far.

With this in place, I've kept an eye open for a better solution but haven't seen or been inspired to look deeper because it's not a problem so far.

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