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1/2" Bolt Leader
(256 reviews)
Price: $6.17
In Stock
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Tow Ready Accessories and Parts - 80101-1
- 5th Wheel Hitch Rails
- Gooseneck Installation Kit
- Trailer Hitch
- Tools
- Bolt Leader
- Tow Ready
- 1/2 Inch
1/2" Bolt Leader used to fishwire bolts through the frame of vehicles.
Features:
- Overall Length: 20-1/2"
5482 1/2" Bolt Leader
Video of 1/2" Bolt Leader
Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer installation instructions and specs for complete information.
Video Transcript for Using a 1/2 inch Bolt Leader FAQ
All right today, we're going to demonstrate part number 80101-1. This is a half inch bolt leader. Now this part is typically used to install carriage bolts and blocks inside the frame of the vehicle for attachment points for a hitch. We got our hardware here, a typical half inch carriage bolt and a block. We'll go ahead and put those together and then take a bolt leader, also known as a wire pull and put everything together. Now this is the access hole we're going to use, so we'll go ahead and actually take it apart, To thread our bolt through, typically you go head first and then slide the block in. Then we pull everything back through the same hole and that's called a reverse pull. Now the next technique that we show you will be the regular fish wiring a bolt.
Now this is really common. Basically what would happen is this would be our access hole and we'd run this through a hole further up in the frame. In this case, we're going to use these two right close to each other for demonstration purposes. What we'll do is actually take our bolt leader, go through the hole that we want to use, back through our access hole. Then we'll take a block, which typically used, we'll push it in the frame, I like to keep it typically separate, so it can move around independently of the bolt. Plus if there are any obstacles in the way inside the frame, it kind of helps work the wiring.
Then we'll go ahead and take our bolt and put it onto the bolt leader, flip it around again, push it in head first. In certain situations, you may have to work it around like that, just rattle it to get it to work through and then back through the hole you're going to use. There you have it for part number 80101-1.
Customer Satisfaction Score:
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Ratings & Reviews
4.8
256 reviews
by:
Charles
09/11/2026
Worked as designed
by:
Armando
10/06/2020
I needed his leader to remove the bolts from my trailer hitch from a previous car and put in on my new car. So happy that it was available from eTrailer as I don't know what I would have done if I hadn't been able to find one.
It arrived promptly as indicated when I ordered.
It arrived promptly as indicated when I ordered.
by:
theDean316
05/29/2015
This tool is ESSENTIAL to fish the bolts through the frame of my car. They made what could have been hours of labor into just minutes. Also, they are more durable than I thought they would be. I ordered two, and only needed one!
by:
Ryan T
07/10/2016
Worked perfectly as I was installing my trailer hitch, which is a simple task but ran into an issue. The bolt holes were pretty corroded on the right side so they needed the threads cleaned, with good ole WD 40 I continued to clean with a tap. After getting 2 done the center one weld nut break off inside the frame, as they have very small tack welds from factory holding them on. So I ordered up this bolt, plate, washer, leader, and a nut to fix the issue, it was simple and an easy fix to a problem at first I wasnt sure how I was going to fix. Fast shipping from etrailer.com and it was done ready to be used in a jiffy. Highly recommend
by:
Gary C.
04/21/2014
Bolt Leader / Fishwire tool: What a great little product. Worked exactly like it was shown in the video. Blew me away. Nothing works like its shown on video...but this DID.
Only gripe is that the install video makes it seem like it is included with the standard hitch install hardware. It isn't. I delayed my install by a week because it's insane to try it without the fishwire. Worth the wait for me, but order it when you order your hitch.
Only gripe is that the install video makes it seem like it is included with the standard hitch install hardware. It isn't. I delayed my install by a week because it's insane to try it without the fishwire. Worth the wait for me, but order it when you order your hitch.
Gary C.
4/21/2015
Its crazy to see all these five-star ratings. I usually think they are bogus. But this hitch kit is the REAL DEAL. The installation kit and fishwire worked just like the video. My trailer is too heavy for lots of use but Im buying a lighter one and then it will get much more use. I am very satisfied.
by:
Paul B
06/06/2015
One of the BEST helpful products I have ever seen or used! The installation of the hitch would be next to impossible without this device as the size of the bolt and square washer just barely fits where it's supposed to go and if for some reason you need to remove the bolt you can push the bolt back out and start over again! Takes the frustration out of the installation....awesome tool!
Paul B.
6/5/2016
Next to impossible to install those 2 bolts without this ingenious device!
by:
Cliff W.
07/19/2016
I needed to remove an e-trailer hitch and reinstall it, so I repurchased these devices that let one thread the hitch hold on bolts through the frame. Worked well again.
Cliff W.
1/10/2018
The wires used to install the trailer bolts are really only used once - whenyou install your trailer hitch. They worked fine.
by:
Keith S
06/25/2016
Godsend!!! Only way to go if you want to mount your trailer hitch like the factory install. Worth every penny!
Keith S.
6/25/2017
Still holding strong!
by:
William M
02/18/2012
bolt leader after watching the video think that was a slick way to get the bolt through the frame. It did not look like the one in the video or the website. The spring material was so thin, it could not erect the bolt inside the frame to be pulled it through the backing plate and frame hole. Had to cut two holes in the trunk of the car to fish out the bolt and get it vertical to drop through the backing plate and frame hole . After that the rest of the installation ( one U-bolt) went well. From the outside, the hitch installation looks good. On the inside, I had to cut plates and seal them over the holes in the trunk to keep the exhaust gases out of the car.
by:
Jeffrey
01/11/2019
If you're installing a trailer hitch and don't have ones of these, you're doing yourself a disservice. This makes getting the bolts to go through the frame rails a breeze.
Just a tip, get 2 and it'll make your life even easier. Doing one at a time works, but if you had two I could've installed my hitch in under 10 mins.
Just a tip, get 2 and it'll make your life even easier. Doing one at a time works, but if you had two I could've installed my hitch in under 10 mins.
by:
Mike M
06/19/2016
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You for the tip to purchase this to facilitate the installation of trailer hitch.
Extremely helpful sales person, all products purchased shipped quickly, installed easily, and work perfectly.
5 stars for eTrailer
Extremely helpful sales person, all products purchased shipped quickly, installed easily, and work perfectly.
5 stars for eTrailer
by:
Mark
01/23/2017
Thank you etrailer, customer service and prices are great! Appreciate installation videos & tips. Hitch fit is spot on for my 2003 AWD Rendezvous. Did install in carport by myself without having to lower exhaust or spare tire. Part 80101-1 is a must to make job easier, and 41405 wiring harness is a simple plug in. Will be using primarily for a receiver mounted bike rack.
by:
George M.
04/11/2012
key for making the installation of a trailer hitch a simple process. Be advised that the trailer hitch hardware kit DOES come with more than one of these. At least mine did. The website did not state how many anywhere that I could see so I ended up purchasing 3 extras that I really didn't need. I would recommend calling to check how many your kit would come with if you have any questions about that at all. But they are almost a necessity for a quick and easy install.
by:
FC
01/16/2017
Delivery was fast. Wanted to put hitch on
A different car(same model/year) and not used stressed bolts. Needed spacers and leaders so purchased the items needed from one location,in one box.
A different car(same model/year) and not used stressed bolts. Needed spacers and leaders so purchased the items needed from one location,in one box.
Fc
1/16/2018
Parts worked perfect. Have had good experiences ordering parts and hitches from etrailer
by:
Steve P.
07/31/2014
I called etrailer to make sure I was getting the right hitch. It was sent out the same day and got it on day 2. The installation was a piece of cake. There installation videos are a big help. I knew just what to expect with no surprises.
I also ordered the 1/2" Bolt Leader used to fishwire bolts through the frame of vehicles. one nifty tool for only 95 cents. I would definitely buy from them again. Highly recommended.
I also ordered the 1/2" Bolt Leader used to fishwire bolts through the frame of vehicles. one nifty tool for only 95 cents. I would definitely buy from them again. Highly recommended.
by:
John S.
03/01/2017
It is very handy, having some thing helping in getting a bolt TO & Through a hole in the frame to mount Hitch Receivers. Having an assortment of all the size bolts required is a neccesity.
by:
Chris P
09/30/2016
Etrailer,
A new-to-me truck meant a new hitch installation. Needing the mounting hardware for a hitch that I already own, I tried several local vendors for the needed parts to no avail. After a brief internet search, I easily located the bolts, nuts, washers, and fish wire on your website and placed an order. Then, WOW! The level of attention and communication from your staff regarding my order was incredible. The order and the communication was timely, accurate, and thorough. I am now a loyal customer. Thanks for the great experience! Wish me luck in not busting my knuckles during installation.
-Chris
A new-to-me truck meant a new hitch installation. Needing the mounting hardware for a hitch that I already own, I tried several local vendors for the needed parts to no avail. After a brief internet search, I easily located the bolts, nuts, washers, and fish wire on your website and placed an order. Then, WOW! The level of attention and communication from your staff regarding my order was incredible. The order and the communication was timely, accurate, and thorough. I am now a loyal customer. Thanks for the great experience! Wish me luck in not busting my knuckles during installation.
-Chris
by:
Sam
05/29/2016
I emailed customer service because I lost these pieces and they were great in helping me find them on the website. I have used Etrailer a couple times and always recommend them to friends who want a trailer hitch.
by:
Jim S
02/25/2017
I ordered this tool to re-install my hitch. The tool makes installation of attachment bolt,s in a solid frame, simple. I ordered this tool because I misplaced my original tool. E trailer had the part to me in 4 days. I order ALL my trailer and hitch related parts E trailer. Their install videos are GREAT and accurate. Thanks guys and gals.
by:
Miles
07/29/2020
This helped me fix a broken weld nut on my xterra frame....something an autobody repair shop broke and didn't tell me. Now all the bolts on my tow hitch are rock solid!
by:
Vince P
04/07/2014
Shipping was a bit exaggerated for this and 2 other parts, but it is what it is and this was the only place I could find them.
I am glad I bought 2 of these, because they are WAY TOO SHORT! I don't know if these are made to order or a stock part, but they were a foot too short for my application on a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500. I made 2 small hooks on both of the straight ends and taped them together, this was the only way I could use them.
If you just need this part, just go to Lowe's or Home Depot and pick up some rigid small gauge wire or picture hanging wire and save yourself the time and hassle.
I am glad I bought 2 of these, because they are WAY TOO SHORT! I don't know if these are made to order or a stock part, but they were a foot too short for my application on a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500. I made 2 small hooks on both of the straight ends and taped them together, this was the only way I could use them.
If you just need this part, just go to Lowe's or Home Depot and pick up some rigid small gauge wire or picture hanging wire and save yourself the time and hassle.
by:
Ron Henry
02/25/2018
Hitch spacer block, 1/2 carriage bolts, 1/2 bolt leader. All three are great items. Unable to find elsewhere and too costly to make. Thanks go out to e-trailer.com for making these items available for sale at great prices and super fast shipping. Can't say enough for this supplier except thank you very much.
by:
Drew
02/19/2013
I was able to install the Curt trailer hitch on my 2013 Subaru Forester, by myself. Working in my garage, with the aid of two ramps and the 1/2" bolt leaders, the installation went smoothly. I do wish that I had had a 6" extension for my torque wrench, although I was able to torque the flange nuts without the extension.
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view full answer... - How to Install Trailer Hitch on Vehicle that is Missing Weld Nuts in Trailer FrameWhat you can do is use a bolt leader like # 80101-1 with a carriage bolt block through an open portion of your frame to basically act as a weld nut so you can install the hitch. This normally is a solution we use when a vehicle has a broken weld nut and we have to come up with a way to install the hitch. We made a video on how to do this which I have attached to this page. Best option will be to source a carriage bolt (it will have square shoulders under the head of the bolt) the correct...
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view full answer... - How to Install Hitch Receiver on Mitsubishi Outlander that is Missing Weld Nuts in FrameYes, we have seen this before and there is a solution so you can still mount your Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13163 to your 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander. You will need a bolt leader like item # 80101-1 with a carriage bolt block through an open portion of your frame to basically act as a weld nut so you can install the hitch. I attached a video on how to do this. You will need to source a carriage bolt (it will have square shoulders under the head of the bolt)...
view full answer... - Installing Hitch on 2007 Honda Odyssey With Enlarged Hole/Missing Weld NutHi Sean; so with that larger hole I'm assuming the weld nut is also missing. What you can do is use # 80101-1 along with a spacer block # RP3022 to fill the gap just like you do for the third bolt on the driver side frame rail.
view full answer... - Solution for Broken Weldnut During Hitch InstallBroken weldnuts can be rather annoying when trying to install a hitch. It's a fairly common problem that we see and because of that we made an FAQ video on how to address this problem. Check out the video I attached to see it. You will need a bolt leader like part # 80101-1 as well.
view full answer... - Installing Trailer Hitch on a 2019 Honda Odyssey with Broken WeldnutYes, it sounds like you broke something. Specifically one of the weldnuts that are on the inside of your 2019 Honda Odyssey's frame for the trailer hitch's bolts to thread into. It's annoying but not really a huge problem. Although it'll probably cost you a trip to the hardware store. You need a Grade 8 carriage bolt and a washer, nut, and spacer block that fit it. You also need a bolt leader, part # 80101-1. You're first going to need to get the bolt out by breaking off the head....
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- How To Find The Correct Replacement Hardware Kit For Trailer HitchIf you've broken or lost any of your hardware when installing your hitch all you need is to go to part # RHK, type your hitch item number in and select the manufacturer. This will give you a complete hardware kit to replace yours. You can buy a replacement leader # 80101-1 separately. Sometimes you may need to take a step bit to make the hole a little larger. Other times you can find a lager hole somewhere else and use the bolt leader to fish it down to the smaller hole that way. Be sure...
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view full answer... - Bolt Leader Size for Installing Hitch on 2021 Mazda CX-5The Draw Tite hitch you have part # 76138 uses a 1/2 inch bolt leader like part # 80101-1. We also sell the complete hardware kit with # RHK.
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view full answer... - Solution for Broken Weld Nuts Installing Trailer Hitch on 2012 Honda OdysseyDid two of the weldnuts in your trailer frame brake as you were tightening them down? All 6 of the install bolts for the Draw Tite hitch part # 75270 will thread into the weldnuts on the vehicle frame. Broken weldnuts can be rather annoying when trying to install a hitch. It's a fairly common problem that we see and because of that we made an FAQ video on how to address this problem. Check out the video I attached to the right to see it. You will need a bolt leader like part # 80101-1 as well.
view full answer... - Is The Curt C13800 Hitch For A 2001 Mitsubishi Montero A No-Drill Install?Hello Anibal. I think I might have misunderstood your previous question. The Curt Class 3 Hitch # C13800 is indeed a no-drill installation. There should be 3 holes in the driver side frame rail and two holes on the passenger side. All 5 holes should have a factory installed weldnut inside. I have included a diagram below that shows the location of each hole. It sounds like the factory weldnuts are not there though. If the factory weldnuts are no longer present you can either pay to have...
view full answer... - How to Route the Power Wire of Trailer Wiring to Battery of 2022 Kia SoulIf you fast forward to the 8:14 mark of the install video I attached you'll see how we routed the power wire of the Curt trailer wiring harness part # C89KR to the front of the vehicle. Conner does a really good job showing how to access all of the areas needed to get it to the battery. He mentions using a pull wire at one point which if you needed one of those we have the part # 80101-1.
view full answer... - Completing Hitch Install on 2008 Toyota RAV4 after Weld Nut BreaksYour best bet would be to use the spacer block you referenced, in conjunction with a grade 5 or higher, 1/2 inch by 1-1/2 inch carriage bolt, lock washer and nut. You would use a fish wire like part # 80101-1 to fish the bolt and the block washer up into the frame member through the access hole shown in the photo and out the hole where you want to install the hitch. You might need to slightly enlarge the access hole as shown in order for the head of the carriage bolt and the block washer...
view full answer... - Available Sizes of Bolt Leader or Hardware Fish Wire for Hitch InstallationYes, we can help you with a bolt leader or fish wire as they are sometimes called. These are made in different sizes to fit specific bolt diameters, as below: # 80103-1 is for 7/16-inch bolts # 80101-1 is for 1/2-inch # C58390 is for 3/8-inch # C58430 is for 1/2-inch
view full answer... - Does Gas Tank have to be Removed to Install a Trailer Hitch on a 1996 Ford BroncoSince access to the frame is blocked on your 1996 Ford Bronco what you can do is fishwire in the bolts and spacer blocks by using a large enough access hole for the frame or, if no hole exists, you could make a hole through which to run the bolts and blocks using fishwire # 80101-1. I have linked a help article that has a section that explains fishwiring. Looking through the other hitches for your Bronco all of them attach to the bottom of the frame rails in the same manner so if fishwiring...
view full answer... - How To Install Trailer Hitch On 2011 Ford Explorer With Broken Weld Nuts On FrameThere would be no bolts that need to be removed when installing the Curt Trailer Hitch # C13386 you purchased for your Explorer. I think you may have twisted the weld nuts that are attached to the frame of your vehicle. These weld nuts are needed for the M12 bolts that are part of the installation kit you received with the trailer hitch. I have attached a link to a video that explains how to remove and replace broken weld nuts you can check out. To re-install hardware you will need a...
view full answer... - Does Gas Tank of 1996 Ford Bronco Have to Drop to Install Trailer HitchWe don't have any fit notes for having to drop the fuel tank of your 1996 Ford Bronco to install a Class III hitch like the # 75038. I did some googling and found that one guy had to fishwire his hardware through the frame to get around the fuel tank but that's really not that difficult. For a bolt leader to do this you would need the part # 80101-1. I attached a help video on fishwiring for you to check out as well.
view full answer... - Solution for Installing Hitch on Vehicle with Broken Weld NutsSince you have broken weldnuts the only thing you can do is use a block and carriage bolt, drop them down through the frame using the fishwire technique with a bolt leader like # 80101-1 and then use a nut to secure the hitch to that bolt. This is assuming you do not want to go through the trouble or expense of having new weldnuts professionally installed in the frame. If you do this you will need bolts that are grade 5 or better, the same size as originally included with the hitch and...
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- How To Install etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver On a 2007 Honda Pilot With Broken Off Weld NutsWe do not have a specific kit for attaching our etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98851 to your 2007 Honda Pilot with broken weld nuts. The best option would be to have your mechanic weld in some new weld nuts for the M12 - 1.25 hardware used for this receiver. Otherwise we do have the Square Hole Spacers # RP3022 and Bolt Leaders # 80101-1 you would need, but you would need to source the rest of the mounting hardware locally since these will require different carriage bolts.
view full answer... - What Size Fishwire is Used to Install etrailer e98903The etrailer hitch part # e98903 that you referenced comes with fishwire needed to install it but if you wanted extras or damaged yours (easily done) for a replacement you'd want 1/2 inch like # 80101-1.
view full answer... - Availability of 5/8 Inch Bolt LeaderFor a 5/8 Inch Bolt Leader, you will want part # C58430. We do offer 1/2 Inch Bolt Leaders available as part # 80101-1 or # C58400.
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Ryan T.
1/16/2018
The parts are doing what they were intended to do and super happy with my purchases. If I am ever in need for future vehicles etc I wouldnt hesitate to buy from you again. Thanks again Ryan thumbs up