I'm sure most the models are the same so I hope someone can answer. I'm trying to install a Curt Hitch on a 06 MVP. Not sure on how to get the muffler from the rubber mounting clip. Do I just pull the bolts out or should I just something to yank them out? Other than that everything seems very strait forward. Mazda even took the courtesy of mounting the nuts so all I need to so is screw the bolt in on the back two holes. Fishing the other two nuts throught he holes was very simple. Again just need to know how to unmount the muffler.

Thanks,

 

I had a U-Haul hitch put on my '01 Tribute (DX, 4cyl, 5spd) when I first bought it and had to replace the wiring harness a year later (the original connector, which they routed outside, salted up and shorted the headlamps and dash lights). They tapped into the left tail-light wiring and I did the same when I replaced the harness and connector. I now keep it wrapped inside in the back and run it out when I need it. It is a flat harness so there is no worry for pinched wires shorting to frame when the hatch is closed on it.

 

My '04 that I just bought unfortunately did not come with a hitch. U-haul quoted me a price of $160 for the hitch an labor. Note - that was without the wiring harness since I am only using it for a bike rack. The dealer quoted me a price of $290.

 

I put a Universal Class III Reese Hitch (2") on my 2001 years ago. Bought it at Walmart for close to $100. It was very easy to install. It's rated for 5000/6000 which is way above the 3500 limit of the vehicle. I've never had any problems and I am always pulling a trailer with something on it (coke machines, wood, furniture, etc.) I come pretty close to the 3500 max limit a lot. But never had any problems and engine and transmission still work extremely well. I have added lift to my rear springs due to the loads (between trailers or the hitch basket).

Wiring was pretty simple. Got a 4wire flat setup from the local uhaul and installed it myself. It clamps in to the rear lights which are well protected from the elements. I may get a new harness if I get a camper and run it from the battery.

The only issue other than adding spring support for the rear wheels that I've had, is when I have the hitch basked on, the tailpipe comes straight out the back and tends to heat up or melt anything on that side of the basket. After the first time I noticed that, I modified the tailpipe to exit the side.