PSA - Removal and Re-install of Trailer Hitch Cover - Super simple, don't be afraid!

[Cyber_95]

Related, but not related question for the group. Is there a consensus on the best recovery strap (kit) out there for "just in case" situations?

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[mongo]

Side note: you must be lying on the ground to do this! So place a mat!

I do it from a crouch.
Even easier on high suspension.

 

[Feathermerchant]

My screwdrivers did not fit very well so I made a tool by grinding one carefully so it matches the fastener head. It would be nice if they had little handles on the fasteners.

 

[kpanda17]

What’s everyone seeing for towing range?
130, 200 miles?

 

[Trekboy]

For anyone looking for a wide (5/16th) and easily transportable screwdriver to remove the hitch cove with... this can't be beat for 4.99. Bonus.... you get a Phillips too!

https://www.harborfreight.com/cushion-grip-stubby-screwdriver-set-2-piece-56761.html

 

[Speedr]

Side note: you must be lying on the ground to do this! So place a mat!

I set the height to High, put a small towel down, and just knelt. There's no wrong way to do it though, whatever is the easiest/most comfortable for you.

 

[Speedr]

I do it frequently, but still forget which way to turn reaching up and doing it blind. I’ve debated replacing with thumb screws, but I don’t want it too obvious for someone to take. Still worth it to not worry about running into the ball like I would with my old truck.

Turning these takes very little effort, so just trying it both ways (without overly forcing it) quickly shows you which way it turns.

 

[65SoYoLO]

Thank you. Are we able to just leave the tow hitch on there and not put the cover back on? Would it cause any type of damage?

I tow alot. Removed the cover when I bought the truck and have not put it back on since. No problems so far, 15 months later.

 

[Speedr]

I tow alot. Removed the cover when I bought the truck and have not put it back on since. No problems so far, 15 months later.

Totally agree, should have mentioned that as well. Besides leaving the cover off, I usually leave my receiver with the ball on it in as well. I just had to do a 2,200+ mile road trip, so wanted as much efficiency as possible, hence the reason to put it back on (and subsequently remove it once back home). Thought I'd document the process since it was so easy (and hadn't done it since early 2024 when I first got the Cybertruck).

 

[65SoYoLO]

I just had to do a 2,200+ mile road trip, so wanted as much efficiency as possible, ).

did you notice any increase?

 

[Speedr]

did you notice any increase?

Sadly no idea. But since it was a 5 minute task, I figured I'd do all I could to maximize the efficiency/range.

BTW, the trip was pretty effortless. Did mostly 75-78 on the interstates, which was most of the way. Anything under 75 seemed like it matched the stated range (i.e. 318 miles), which is so much better than our Model S Plaid with 21s (it's usually 20-25% less). Obviously closer to 80 mph was less. Got a chance to hit a few new V4 superchargers as well, and it was great to see the charging speed, at least at a low state of charge. I was surprised how well it held a somewhat high rate of charge even after crossing 50, 55% since I heard horror stories. Seems like all the updates have improved the charging curve now.

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