[SA2020]

Inspired by @Robert.Mauro YT video, I created my own hitch mount cut out. Using a razor, I created grooves on the inside of the plastic cover; then I used my Dremel to cut the piece out. I was a slow and dirty process but as you can see in the pictures it looks like a new kind of OEM part. The biggest difference between what I did and Robert did is that I didn't cut all the way to the top and instead opted to leave a thin portion of the plastic to help hold the shape. I then went on Amazon and bought some door trim (Winunite Car Door Edge Guards) and lined the edges. I mainly use my hitch mount for my 1UP USA bike rack. The reason this setup works is because the 1UP USA bike rack doesn't use a traditional pin to lock the rack into place. This allows me to keep the cover plate on while using the rack. I am in the process of deciding if I will make a cutout for the 7-pin connector too using the same process.

 

[Robert.Mauro]

Very nice!!!

 

[SA2020]

Very nice!!!

Thank you. As per the mention in my post, do you know anyone who's tried to create the cutout for the 7-pin connector?

 

[kathytn]

I did mine using using just a plain old box cutter with a new blade and a metal ruler as a guide. Cutting from the back side, it was really easy, no mess. It went pretty quick - less than 15 minutes if that.

 

[SA2020]

That sounds like it took some serious elbow grease

I did mine using using just a plain old box cutter with a new blade and a metal ruler as a guide. Cutting from the back side, it was really easy, no mess. It went pretty quick - less than 15 minutes if that.

 

[Robert.Mauro]

Thank you. As per the mention in my post, do you know anyone who's tried to create the cutout for the 7-pin connector?

Yes. Use the appropriate size spade bit in a high speed drill. Remember to make the hole big enough so that the door can fit as well, to lock onto the cable.

 

[Merope]

Thank you. As per the mention in my post, do you know anyone who's tried to create the cutout for the 7-pin connector?

If towing, don't forget the safety chains.

For my bike rack, I need to access the hitch pin, which means I'd have to have the cover staged on the rack stinger, attach the hitch and tighten the threaded pin, then put the cover on... or have a big enough hole in the cover to do that. I'm getting to liking the look with the cover off.

 

[Jim_in_PA]

If towing, don't forget the safety chains.

First thing that came to my mind when the electrical was mentioned...

 

[Robert.Mauro]

If towing, don't forget the safety chains.

First thing that came to my mind when the electrical was mentioned...

Coincidentally, I planned on doing this for my cargo platform, so I could wire my LED turn/reverse/brake light bar. Alas, that's a very uncommon use.