Etrailer e82PR Manual

The Etrailer e82PR is a heavy-duty trailer hitch receiver designed for towing applications up to 8,200 lbs gross trailer weight and 820 lbs tongue weight. It features a Class III/IV 2-inch receiver tube, reinforced construction, corrosion-resistant finish, multiple mounting points, and compatibility with various hitch accessories. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Operation Guidelines 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-inch receiver tube, mounting brackets, hardware kit, safety chain loops, wiring harness access point.

FeatureDescription
Receiver Tube2-inch Class III/IV for hitch accessories
Weight Capacity8,200 lbs GTW, 820 lbs tongue weight
ConstructionReinforced steel with welded seams
FinishCorrosion-resistant powder coating
Mounting PointsMultiple bolt holes for secure vehicle attachment
Safety Chain LoopsIntegrated loops for safety chain attachment
Wiring AccessOpening for trailer wiring harness routing
CompatibilityFits specific vehicle models (check fit guide)
Hardware IncludedGrade 8 bolts, nuts, washers, installation instructions
WarrantyLimited lifetime warranty

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure vehicle is on level surface, parking brake engaged.

  1. Position hitch: Align hitch with vehicle frame mounting points.
  2. Secure mounting brackets: Use provided hardware to attach brackets to frame.
  3. Tighten bolts: Torque to manufacturer specifications (typically 55-65 ft-lbs).
  4. Install safety chains: Attach chains to integrated loops.
  5. Route wiring: Pass trailer wiring harness through access point.

WARNING! Hitch is heavy; use proper lifting techniques or assistance. Ensure all bolts are properly torqued.

First-Time Setup

After installation, perform safety checks before towing.

  1. Visual inspection: Check all bolts for tightness, look for cracks or damage.
  2. Test fit: Insert hitch accessory (ball mount, bike rack) to ensure proper fit.
  3. Connect trailer: Practice connecting trailer coupler to hitch ball.
  4. Check safety chains: Ensure chains are crossed under coupler with minimal slack.
  5. Test wiring: Connect trailer lights, verify all functions work properly.

CAUTION! Never exceed weight ratings. Always use safety chains and breakaway system if equipped.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Hitch receiver itself has no active controls; proper setup involves accessory selection and weight distribution.

Accessory Setup: Select appropriate hitch ball size for trailer coupler. Use locking pin to secure accessory. Adjust weight distribution hitch if needed.

Weight Distribution: Use weight distribution system for trailers over 5,000 lbs. Adjust spring bars based on trailer tongue weight. Sway Control: Install sway control device if recommended for your trailer.

Connecting Devices

Trailer Connection: Hitch ball to coupler. Electrical: 4-pin or 7-pin connector. Safety chains: Cross under coupler.

  1. Position trailer: Align trailer coupler directly over hitch ball.
  2. Lower coupler: Use trailer jack to lower coupler onto ball until latched.
  3. Secure coupler: Close latch, insert lock or pin.
  4. Connect safety chains: Cross chains under coupler, attach with secure hooks.
  5. Connect wiring: Plug trailer connector into vehicle socket.
  6. Test lights: Verify brake, turn, and running lights function.

Tip: Always perform tug test after connection to ensure secure attachment.

Operation Guidelines

Designed for towing trailers, hauling cargo carriers, or mounting bike racks.

  1. Pre-tow inspection: Check hitch, connections, trailer tires, lights before each use.
  2. Load distribution: Keep 60% of cargo weight forward of trailer axles.
  3. Tongue weight: Maintain 10-15% of total trailer weight as tongue weight.
  4. Driving considerations: Allow greater stopping distance, wider turns.
  5. Backing up: Use spotter when backing with trailer attached.
  6. Unhitching: Park on level surface, chock trailer wheels, disconnect in reverse order.
  7. Accessory use: Ensure bike racks or cargo carriers are within weight limits.
  8. Storage: Keep receiver covered when not in use to prevent debris accumulation.

WARNING! Never modify hitch or exceed weight ratings. Always follow local towing regulations.

Safety Features

Integrated safety chain loops, reinforced construction, corrosion protection, Grade 8 hardware. Always use safety chains and breakaway systems when required.

Care & Maintenance

Regular inspection and cleaning recommended.

  1. Monthly inspection: Check for cracks, rust, loose bolts.
  2. Cleaning: Wash with mild soap and water, dry thoroughly.
  3. Lubrication: Apply light oil to receiver tube interior to prevent seizing.
  4. Touch-up: Use matching touch-up paint on any scratches to prevent rust.
  5. Hardware check: Retorque bolts to specification every 6 months or 6,000 miles.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or wire brushes that may damage finish.

Regulatory Information

Complies with SAE J684 towing standards. Meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for trailer hitches. Copyright © 2025 Etrailer. For support, visit www.etrailer.com or contact 1-800-298-8924. Always follow state and local towing regulations regarding weight limits, safety chains, and lighting requirements.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Hitch accessory looseInsufficient tighteningEnsure locking pin is fully engaged; tighten any adjustment bolts.
Rattling noiseWear between receiver and accessoryUse hitch tightener or anti-rattle device; check for excessive wear.
Corrosion visibleFinish damage, road salt exposureClean area, apply touch-up paint; consider rust inhibitor.
Difficulty inserting accessoryDebris in receiver tubeClean receiver tube interior; apply light lubricant.
Vehicle handling issuesImproper weight distributionCheck tongue weight; adjust load; consider weight distribution system.

Service: For structural issues or damage, contact Etrailer at 1-800-298-8924 or www.etrailer.com. Do not attempt to weld or modify damaged hitch.

Etrailer e82PR Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025