Solution for Weld Nuts of Trailer Hitch that Are Too Rusty to Thread Bolts

Updated 07/15/2019 | Published 07/14/2019

Question:

I crawled under to install this hitch on a 2011 GMC Acadia, but the holes/weld nuts for the 4 outer mounting locations are rusted. I couldnt even get a rethreader in it to clean them up. What are my options now? Any recommendations? Thanks.

asked by: Nathan B

Helpful Expert Reply:

Rusty weld nuts can make trailer hitch installs pretty difficult but there are solutions. First you want to clean them as well as possible so that hopefully that allows the bolts to thread. But worst case scenario you can use a thread tap to clean the threads out. If you can't even get the tap in I'd first try cleaning them with a wire brush and WD 40 first to help get the tap started.

I attached two help articles that cover how this is done as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C