How to Clean The Weld Nuts of a 2002 Honda Odyssey to Install a CURT Trailer Hitch

Updated 10/24/2011 | Published 10/22/2011

Question:

I purchased a CURT C12031 hitch from you for my Honda 2002 and I cannot get the bolts to fit into the undercarriage. They seem to be too big. I dont know if the holes in the undercarriage are damaged or not, but what would be my next step if I cannot get the bolts to fit?

asked by: David M

Expert Reply:

Sometimes weldnuts need to be cleaned, it can be spatter from when the frame was welded together or it could be paint or corrosion. To clean the threads out well, you can use a wire brush and some brake cleaner. Make sure you start the bolts so they are not cross threading the nuts.

Due to the amount of winters your 2002 Honda Odyssey has seen it would seem likely that the weld nuts are in need of being cleaned out. The additional corrosion in the weldnut will make them seem to be too small for the correct installation bolts from the CURT Trailer Hitch # C12031. I attached a video on how to clean out the weldnuts for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C