Why Cant Original Bolts be Used to Install a Trailer Hitch on a 2016 Chevy Colorado

Updated 09/12/2017 | Published 09/09/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Loctite Blue Stick Threadlocker - Medium Strength - 1/4" to 3/4" Nut/Bolt - 0.32 Oz Stick

(16)

$15.52

Question:

Why do you have to use the new bolts, why cant you use the existing bolts. Those are longer on my truck and have loctite brushed on them, seems like this is the way to go rather than new bolts?

asked by: Trav

Expert Reply:

The bolts included with Draw-Tite trailer hitch # 76004 for your 2016 Chevy Colorado are appropriately rated for the hitch capacity. The ones on the truck may not be so it is best to use the included bolts.

You can still use Loctite on them if you want. I like the stick version of the Blue Loctite, # LT37643, because it just makes it easier to apply.

If you plan on doing some towing I recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

And for trailer wiring you can add a 4-Way flat connector to the rear of the truck using # HM11141164.

expert reply by: Michael H