2002 Rendezvous hitch (receiver) installation

[jrozanc]

2002 CXL 3.4L 122k
Looking at installing a hitch on my rendezvous, probably a class 3. At one point it had one (before I bought from the dealer). Does anyone know if I have to remove the rear bumper to be able to mount it? Has any one installed one? The instructions online appear not to hard, but they always make it look easy.

[spike88]

The rear bumper remains untouched. Simply purchase a Class III hitch (for a 2002 RVD) and it bolts under / upwards - onto the rear frame rails.

Note: For wiring, you may need to purchase a special harness from GM dealer. It plugs into existing rear plug - located under rear driver's side of the vehicle - opposite side of the vehicle's rear tail pipe.

Hope this helps...

[spike88]

For a cool install video, surf:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_79Gn4aldE

Note: If buying a Class II hitch, I'd recommend spending a few more minior dollars and install a much better Class III hitch instead.

Works for me....

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[jrozanc]

Thank you for the information. This is what I was exactly was looking for. I am installing a class 3. Your awesome!!!!

[jrozanc]

Installed the hitch today. Easy as the video explained. I had to open up the slots on the frame to fit the plates up and in. Not to bad. Did not have to remove the spare tire. I did notice a wiring harness hanging underneath the driver side. It already has a plug. Assuming it just needs the trailer harness.

[spike88]

Originally Posted by jrozanc

Installed the hitch today. .... I did notice a wiring harness hanging underneath the driver side. It already has a plug. Assuming it just needs the trailer harness.

You are correct. One needs a 3.5 ft long bundle of wire. Its special order V92 connector to 4 flat connector trailer wiring harness. For pictures, surf:
http://www.suspensionconnection.com/...on/41405B.html
http://www.partstrain.com/images/pro...1405_31405.jpg

If wondering, many local GM dealers or even well stocked Auto Supply stores can order this special electrical part. Prices vary from $14 USA to $35 Canadian + applicable taxes.

If installing a brake controller (for connected trailer with electric brakes), I'd purchase / install the above special order "lighting only" wiring harness, install a brake controller inside the vehicle's cabin area and install double shielded twin 10 guage 12V cabling under the vehicle. re: http://www.etrailer.com/p-10-2-1/Jac...-per-Foot.html I'd then install a 7 Pin connector (instead of a standard 4 pin connector) on the vehicle's rear hitch and ensure the approprite pin of the 7 pin connector has 12+ "fused" power wire as well. Thus, allowing "trickle charger" ability for attached trailer's onboard 12V battery. If wondering, this is how I installed the 7 pin connector on my wife's mini-van. It works great - for its towing needs...

Also.... If your vehicle's flasher blinks "too fast" while a trailer is connected, you may have to install a HD Flasher module as well. This upgrade depends on how many lights on the trailer and if conventional or LED type lights are used. If your blinker's flashing speed needs to slow down, ask your auto supply stores about HD Flasher module upgrades for your Buick as well.

Hope this helps as well...

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[jrozanc]

WOW!!!
I wasn't expecting to learn all that, but thank you for the information. I don't plan on towing anything larger than a pop-up. At least I have the knowledge

[spike88]

Originally Posted by jrozanc

WOW!!!
I wasn't expecting to learn all that, but thank you for the information. I don't plan on towing anything larger than a pop-up. At least I have the knowledge

Regardless of one's local towing laws, I encourage any V6 vehicle (like RDVs, mini-vans, small pickups) to pull a pop-up that has its own electric brakes. Especially any pop-up weighing more then 1,500 lbs, and the vehicle is also loaded down with people / onboard cargo.


If wondering, I installed electric brakes on my 6x10 utility trailer, and installed a Brake Controller inside my wife's V6 mini-van. The braking power of before and after is like comparing the moon and sun. re: NO comparison at all. From now on, any trailer over 1,500 lbs connected to my V6 vehicles will have brakes. That's how much trailer brakes bring the towing combo back into "safe braking distance".


If you want to learn how I installed these items on my Tow Vehicle & attached trailer, send me an PM (Private Message).

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[jrozanc]

How do know if my rendezvous has the towing package or not? Standard is 2000lbs towing package is 3500lbs.