Cruisemaster DO35 Hitch – Connecting and Disconnecting

Cruisemaster DO35 Hitch – Connecting and Disconnecting

The Cruisemaster DO35 is a drop-on articulating hitch designed to make connecting and disconnecting your van simple and secure.

Before Connecting

  • Make sure the vehicle and van are lined up as straight as possible.
  • Check that the tow pin cover has been removed.
  • Make sure the tow pin and hitch opening are clean and free from dirt or debris.
  • Check that the hitch is in the unlocked position before lowering it onto the pin.

How to Connect the DO35

  1. Use the jockey wheel to raise the van coupling above the height of the vehicle tow pin.
  2. Unlock the DO35 by pressing the red button and sliding the locking plate back into the open position.
  3. Reverse the vehicle or move the van so the coupling is directly above the tow pin.
  4. Lower the coupling down onto the tow pin using the jockey wheel.
  5. Make sure the hitch is fully seated and that the tow pin is visible through the locating port.
  6. Press the red button again to allow the locking plate to return to the locked position.
  7. Fit the checklock cap securely.
  8. Attach the safety chains.

Before Towing Away

  • Do a visual check that the hitch is fully locked.
  • Make sure the tow pin can be seen through the locating port.
  • Check that the safety chains are attached correctly.
  • Raise the jockey wheel fully before driving off.

How to Disconnect the DO35

  1. Park on level ground where possible.
  2. Apply the van handbrake.
  3. Lower the jockey wheel until it takes the weight of the coupling.
  4. Remove the checklock cap.
  5. Press the red button and slide the locking plate back into the unlocked position.
  6. Raise the coupling off the tow pin using the jockey wheel.
  7. Move the vehicle forward clear of the van.
  8. Refit the tow pin cover if required.

Important Notes

  • Keep hands and fingers clear of the coupling when connecting or disconnecting.
  • Do not force the locking plate.
  • Keep the tow pin and coupling clean and lightly lubricated.
  • Always make sure the hitch is properly locked before towing.
  • Do not use the hitch or tow pin for recovery purposes.

Helpful Tip

If the vehicle and van are reasonably straight, the DO35 is very easy to line up. Once you have done it a couple of times, connecting and disconnecting becomes very quick.