Installation Bolts for Curt Class III Hitch # 13594 on 2013 Chevy Captiva Seem Too Large

Updated 07/01/2015 | Published 06/30/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(121)

$202.93

Battery Post and Terminal Cleaner - Wire Brush

(15)

$5.02

Question:

Hello, I just recently purchased the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2. The M12 Hex Bolts seam to be over-sized no mater how much I clean the threads. The video makes it seem like there should be no resistance when screwing in the hardware. Is it normal to have to force the hardware?

asked by: Andrew H

Expert Reply:

It's not uncommon for the weldnuts to get full of road crud and surface corrosion that would prevent the bolts form starting easily, especially in places that get a lot of snow in the winter. I wouldn't recommend forcing the bolt, because doing so could break off the weldnuts, which would not be good.

I'd recommend using a digital caliper to confirm that you received the correct bolts. They should be M12-1/75 X 35mm.

What are you using to clean the weldnuts? I like using a wire brush like what you'd find on a battery terminal cleaner like part # DW00254. Keep soaking the weldnuts down with WD-40 or PB Blaster during the cleaning process.

If you should find that you received a different size bolt that what I referenced above, please let me know.

expert reply by: Mike L