Reese 66541 User Manual

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Trunnion Style

Weight Distributing Kits

PLYMOUTH, MI.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE BALLMOUNT

E B**

INITIAL SET-UP

1. Line up tow vehicle and trailer on level pavement, in straight-ahead position, uncoupled.

2. Level the trailer and measure and record the distance from the ground to the top of the ball socket (X dimension Fig.1).

3. Select a hitch ball with a diameter that matches the trailer coupler size. The three most common sizes are 1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16". Select ball with 1-1/4" or 1" threaded shank that is V-5 rated equal to or greater than trailer gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). A thin jam nut (.72” thick) should be used on standard ballmount to prevent interference with spring bar trunnion.

WARNING: Raised balls usually have reduced load ratings. Ball rating MUST equal or exceed trailer GVWR.

4. Attach hitch ball to the ballmount (G). REESE standard height hitch balls with 1-1/4" shanks are supplied with lockwashers and nuts (If you must use a 1” shank ball, use bushing 55030 (B) to reduce hole size in ballmount (G) to 1”). Always use a lockwasher and place washer next to nut. Unless otherwise specified by ball manufacturer torque ball nut to 450 ft/lbs for 1-1/4" nut, 250 ft/lbs for 1" nut.

5. Some installations may require a longer hitch bar (D). Extended bumper guards, pickup truck "caps", or rear mounted spare tires can limit turn angles unless a longer bar is used. Individual hitch bars (D) are available in various sizes.

6. Insert the hitch bar (D) into the hitch box and install a pull pin. Place ballmount (G) onto hitch bar and move up or down for proper height. Hitch bar may be used in either the up or down position (see below).

NOTE: Ball height should be greater (approximately 3/4” to 1”).

HIGHEST POSITION

than coupler height (measured in step 1) to compensate for vehicle "squat”

LOWEST POSITION

*D not included in all kits **B not included in all kits

For Installation Assistance or Technical Help, Call 1-800-758-0869

For vehicles with air springs, air shocks or automatic leveling system, check vehicle owners manual. Unless otherwise specified, level the vehicle with the vehicle loaded as it will be when towing before setting ball height and attaching trailer.

PRELIMINARY BALLMOUNT ADJUSTMENT

1. Install hardware in lower hole of ballmount as shown. Tighten nut enough to prevent easy rotation of ballmount.

2. Determine spring bar height "Y" using table below. Insert spring bar and trunnion into the ball mount. Swing bar outward to the same angle as when connected to trailer. Lift up on bar to remove slack. Tilt ball mount for proper "Y” dimension at end of spring bar.

SPRING BAR HEIGHT (Y)

COUPLER HEIGHT

15" TO 18" 18" TO 20" 20" TO 22" 22" TO 24" 24" TO 26"

* ADD 1” TO Y DIMENSION FOR NON-INTEGRATED CAM SPRING BARS.

COUPLER STYLE

A B C

7" 4-1/2" 5-1/2" 8" 5-1/2" 6-1/2"

9" 6-1/2" 7-1/2" 10" 7-1/2" 8-1/2" 11' 8-1/2" 9-1/2"

3. The ballmount (G) is adjustable through a 15° angle. Each step is approx. 1" (approx. 8" overall) at end of spring bar.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE BALLMOUNT ADJUSTMENT

15°

EQUAL NUMBER OF TEETH MUST

TEETH MUST BE PARALLEL

SHOW

Install one adjustment washer (E) on 3/4" X 5" bolt (J) and insert bolt in upper slot in ballmount. Use hole and index position required to locate the ballmount at the proper angle. Install second adjustment washer using same hole and index position as first washer, then add lockwasher, and nut. Torque the two nuts (K) to 300 ft/lbs. If proper torque wrench is not available, torque nuts to 150 ft/lbs then turn nuts an additional 1/4 turn. Do not lubricate the threads.

Install longer 3/4” bolt (J) with two serrated washers (E) as shown. Install lockwasher (L) and nut (K), but allow space for washers to be positioned and aligned. Align the washers as shown, hold in position, and tighten nut.

CAUTION: Washer MUST BE aligned parallel with teeth on ballmount. Re-check washer alignment after nut is tightened. Equal number of teeth must show at top and bottom. Teeth can be stripped when loaded if not properly aligned.

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