Valley hitch review

[shadow1]

I just installed a Valley 2" receiver hitch. It bolts to the frame rails from the sides rather than to the bottom of the frame like Hidden Hitch and Draw Tite. Because of the difference, I was able to install the hitch solo. Hidden Hitch and Draw Tite (same company BTW), definitely require 2 people to install. However, 2 aggravations:
1. I had to remove the muffler (as opposed to just lowering it per the instructions) in order to manuever the rear exhaust hangers around the hitch. The muffler comes off quite easily at least.
2. The passenger tailpipe will not clear the hitch. It touches and rattles. I need to drop the muffler again and grind some metal off the hitch so it will not touch. GRRR.

Based on the exhaust clearance issues, I cannot recommend the Valley hitch for the CX-7. Too bad, Valley is a good hitch company otherwise.

[604Jay]

I just got the same hitch put on over the weekend and I have the same problem. I was driving it around today and could hear the exhaust rattling against the hitch.

[shadow1]

I fixed my rattle by cutting and grinding off over 1/4 inch of steel where the tailpipe touches the hitch on the passenger side. Not fun.

[shadow1]

Update:
I had to use my 4" power grinder to cut and grind off over one inch of metal to get the exhaust rattle to stop 100%. It shouldn't affect the hitch structurally especially since the hitch is rated at 3500 lbs but the CX7 is only rated for 2000 lbs. Very aggravating. I emailed Valley about this. No response.

I also installed the Draw Tite OEM trailer wiring kit. I have a GT model, which is prewired for 4 pin trailer lights. Took 10 minutes to pull a few panels and plug it right up. Very clean. I keep the wires in the spare tire area. I can easily pull the pigtail and let it hang out the hatch when needed. I'm so amazed that Mazda prewired the CX7 (at least the power seat models) for trailer lights.