Troubleshooting Difficult to Thread in Hitch Install Bolts

Updated 04/29/2020 | Published 04/28/2020

Question:

I just watched this video and I have some questions. I bought the hitch through etrailer.com. I cant seem to get the bolts that came with the hitch to find the thread in the passenger side well nuts. I am wondering if I should use a smaller bolt or if it needs some more heavy-duty cleaning to get those bolts to go in. Also, can you tell me what the correct amount of torque is needed for each side when finishing up?

asked by: Adam B

Helpful Expert Reply:

Trailer frame weld nuts notoriously end up with rust in them which makes installing hitch hardware pretty difficult. Often times it seems like the solution is to use smaller hitch hardware but the real solution is to clean out the weld nuts so that the hardware can fit like it needs to.

I have included a few links on hitch installation tips, cleaning weld nuts, and a video on cleaning weld nuts for you. Typically the most efficient solution is to get a thread tap to clean the weld nuts.

expert reply by: Jameson C