Just updating the old thread for future readers...
I just did this factory tow hitch install on our 2017 Sport last weekend. It took me a lot longer than the 3 hours it took Sivicsi420, but I was doing it without a helper. I also ordered the factory wiring harness, but havent installed that yet. That part didn't come with any instructions so I ordered the factory Ford wiring book and am waiting for it to arrive. And it isnt anything like the other aftermarket quick attach harness kits. After seeing both, I recommend the aftermarket kit for the ease of installation only. I cant vouch if it will eventually burn up the BCM without the use of external relays.
To answer dweiss22 's question, yes, you absolutely have to remove the rear bumper cover. Not hard but very cumbersome doing it alone.
The factory Ford kit comes with all the hardware needed, and mine came with a pre-molded bumper cover insert that can be used on other Edge models OTHER THAN the sport. By replacing the insert with the included cover, non Sport owners will not have to carve out their bumper cover. The factory Ford kit also came with some very basic instructions that will get a person started.
As far as price, I found a coupon from a dealer for 15% off counter part orders. My local dealer matched it, so for the factory wiring harness and the trailer hitch I was around $400 out the door. I used the factory part numbers from Sivicsi420 above post.
As far as the kick to open, I didnt have the split sensors so I just doubled them up on the right side with zip ties. Now I have to kick to the right of the hitch...and be within 12 inches of the right side. Since I doubled it up, it doesnt work on the left any more, not too big of a deal, but I wish I had ordered the split sensors like others have done.
I will post some pictures later after I reduce the size, to meet the upload limits, for those that are contemplating this vs the after market hitches. I will say this one is built very heavy duty since it replaces the rear crash bar, and it doesnt sit low like the aftermarket hitch kits. Were using it for our bike rack so I wanted it as high as possible.... and of course I wanted the factory look as well.
Thanks for all the info. I'm looking to do exactly what you did and for all the same reasons. Did you use the included bumper cover insert to determine where to cut the bumper cover? Also, do you know the part number of the split sensor? Thanks again for the detailed write-up.
Hitch for Sport
in Cargo, Hauling, Roof Racks & Towing
Posted
Thanks for all the info. I'm looking to do exactly what you did and for all the same reasons. Did you use the included bumper cover insert to determine where to cut the bumper cover? Also, do you know the part number of the split sensor? Thanks again for the detailed write-up.