Let’s Talk About Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve
The Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve from Hayes promises a simple, tool-free solution for mounting your brake controller. With its emphasis on ease of installation and universal compatibility, it stands out as a potential time-saver and stress-reducer for anyone who frequently tows. As someone who’s spent years wrestling with finicky mounting hardware in various tactical and overlanding setups, the claim of “no tools required” immediately piqued my interest.
I’ve dealt with countless brake controller installations, often involving awkward angles, stripped screws, and frustratingly vague instructions. The promise of a truly universal, quick-install solution felt like a direct answer to my prayers for a simpler towing setup. Tired of spending hours mounting and unmounting brake controllers between my different trucks, I was searching for a quick solution to mount different Hayes brake controllers.
Upon unboxing, the Hayes 81793 impressed me with its simplicity; it’s essentially a sleeve with pre-applied adhesive. Its lightweight design initially raised concerns about its robustness, but the Hayes brand is well regarded. Compared to traditional mounting brackets with screws and adjustable arms, the Hayes 81793 offers a minimalist approach.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design felt too simplistic to be truly secure, but the reputation of Hayes and the promise of a hassle-free installation outweighed my initial skepticism. I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve on my F-150, preparing to haul a small utility trailer for a weekend camping trip. The mounting location was under the dashboard, a notoriously cramped and awkward space to work in. Installation took less than a minute: clean the mounting surface, peel the adhesive backing, and stick the sleeve in place.
The adhesive held surprisingly well, even on the slightly textured plastic of my dashboard. Using the quick receiver mount was incredibly easy. After a few minutes of setting it up I was able to mount and dismount brake controllers in seconds
There were no immediate issues, but I was curious how the sleeve would perform on bumpy backroads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Hayes 81793, I can confidently say it’s held up surprisingly well. Despite enduring summer heat and some bone-jarring rides on forest service roads, the adhesive remains firmly attached. There are no signs of peeling or weakening.
The sleeve itself shows no signs of wear, and cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth. It outperforms my previous mounting methods in terms of speed and convenience, although I would still prefer something more sturdy for long trips.
The Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve has proven reliable for light to medium-duty towing, providing a secure and hassle-free solution for attaching my brake controller.
Breaking Down the Features of Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve
Specifications
- The Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve utilizes Very High Bonding (VHB) tape adhesive for secure mounting. This is a crucial feature, as the adhesive is responsible for holding the entire unit in place.
- It is designed to be universally compatible with Hayes brake controller models, excluding the P/N 100400B Air Actuated Controller. This provides broad compatibility for Hayes users.
- The key feature is the tool-free installation, eliminating the need for screws, bolts, or specialized tools. This promotes ease of use and quick setup.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the ease of installation, compatibility, and overall reliability of the mounting sleeve. The VHB adhesive ensures a strong bond, while the universal design minimizes compatibility issues.
Performance & Functionality
The Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve performs its primary function admirably: securely holding the brake controller in place. The adhesive provides a surprisingly strong bond, preventing slippage or movement during regular driving conditions.
Its greatest strength is its ease of use, allowing for rapid installation and removal of the brake controller. The main weakness is that I prefer something more robust for extremely demanding conditions, such as heavy off-road towing.
For its intended purpose – providing a quick and convenient mounting solution – the Hayes 81793 meets and even exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve has a simple, low-profile design that blends seamlessly into most vehicle interiors. Its lightweight construction doesn’t add unnecessary bulk or obstruct access to other dashboard controls.
The user-friendly design requires no complex assembly or adjustments, making it accessible even for those with limited mechanical experience. The ease of use sets it apart from traditional mounting systems.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hayes 81793 is constructed from durable materials that can withstand typical automotive interior conditions. With proper cleaning and maintenance, the Hayes 81793 should be able to last a while.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dust or debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. It is a standalone mounting solution.
While not directly customizable, the sleeve can be paired with various Hayes brake controller models, allowing users to choose the controller that best suits their towing needs. Selecting the correct brake controller for your specific application is crucial.
Pros and Cons of Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve
Pros
- Extremely easy to install: Peel-and-stick design requires no tools.
- Universal Compatibility: Works with most Hayes brake controllers.
- Strong Adhesive: VHB tape provides a surprisingly secure hold.
- Clean, low-profile design: Blends seamlessly into vehicle interiors.
- Cost-effective: A budget-friendly solution for brake controller mounting.
Cons
- Adhesive-based: May not be suitable for all mounting surfaces or extreme conditions.
- Limited Adjustability: The mounting location is fixed once the adhesive is applied.
Who Should Buy Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve?
The Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve is perfect for individuals who want a quick and easy way to mount their Hayes brake controller. It’s an ideal solution for those who frequently switch their brake controller between vehicles or prefer a tool-free installation.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who require a highly adjustable mounting system or operate in extreme off-road environments. Those seeking a more robust, bolt-on solution should explore other mounting options.
A must-have accessory would be a surface cleaner to ensure a proper bond between the adhesive and the mounting location.
Conclusion on Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve
Overall, the Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve offers a compelling combination of simplicity, convenience, and affordability. It delivers on its promise of tool-free installation and provides a surprisingly secure hold for most towing applications.
The price of $17.99 is certainly justified. I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a hassle-free brake controller mounting solution for light to medium-duty towing.
If you value ease of use and a clean, unobtrusive design, the Hayes 81793 Universal Quik Receiver Mounting Sleeve is definitely worth considering. Simplify your towing setup today!