I know guys have had them installed but has anyone here done there own install? I have all the tools needed ( including a lift ) to do the job, I just need to know what to look for. Thanks

Al

 

Here's several threads I found using the search feature. Hopefully one of these will help. You might also get hold of members Gambler and TomsHHR as I know both of them have hitches on their HHR's for sure.

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/general-hhr-4/towing-boat-286/
https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/general-hhr-4/towing-trailer-3765/

 

I haven't done a hitch on the HHR yet, but I have always installed my own. You have a lift, which I never had. That should be a huge help. Read the instructions a few times to make sure you have what you need. Take your time, and have an assistant help. Years ago I installed one on my Isuzu Trooper. It was hell to get it lined up. With 2 of us pushing and nudging, we got it into place. The rest was cake,especially with the extra hands. If you have mechanical knowledge, you'll be fine. I did notice (and I don't remember where I saw it) that one manufacturer requires drilling to mount on an HHR. Make sure you have the right sized sharp bit!

 

Hello Al, I installed my own hitch. it was a Draw-Tite and I got it from http://www.etrailer.com It went on with out any problem. The HHR pulls a trailer well also.
Bill

 

Deb, I did a search and came up with those also, I'm looking to see if anyone did there own install.

Firewatcher, If I haven't done in before ( haven't done a uni-body car before ) I like to research it in advance, and yes the lift is a big help ( did enough work lying on my back when I was young ).

Bill, Thanks for the link, one thing I can see is the muffler needs to be lowered when installing the hitch...more info would be appreicated.

Al

 

Hey Al,

The installation was really not a big deal. The hitch reaches above the muffler and bolts to the frame. You only have to slip the rear 3 rubber muffler mounts off there pins and allow the muffler to sag down a few inches to allow room to get the bolts in then just rehang the muffler on its rubber mounts. the only drilling that needs to be done is to enlarge one hole on the rear passenger side to 1/2". the hitch came with a coiled wire to fish the bolts inside the frame rails. I think it only took me 1 1/2 hours to do the install including the wiring. The wiring kit was a plug in deal you dont have to cut into the factory harness. I am very pleased with the hitch and would recommend it. There was one other brand that mounted to the spare tire well I did not like that idea. the Draw-Tite mounts only to the frame rails. These are the PNs I ordered from http://www.etrailer.com
Hitch 24756
drawbar 3594
wiring kit 18407

PS here is a picture although you can't see much. If you would like some
close up ones let me know and I will take a few today
http://www.vast.net/bill/plans/06-07...m_DSCN2799.jpg

Edit to add close ups:
Here are some close ups of the Draw-Tite trailer Hitch
http://vast.net/hhr/hitch/

 

Hey Bill,

Am I correct in saying you fish the bolts ( not the nuts? ) through the large ob-long hole in the frame? Thanks for all the info.

Later,
Al

 

you are correct

 

Thanks

 

this is why this place is so cool, I was just about to go looking for this info today...and here it is...loving this place !