Installation of Curt Hitch Receiver Leaving Frame Port/Hole Open on 2020 Subaru Forester

Updated 05/14/2020 | Published 05/12/2020

Question:

This hole in the frame rail originally had a plug to keep out water and debris. In the installation video, after installing the hitch, these holes were left unplugged. Doesnt this create an easy entry for water and therefore rust? Do you have a solution?

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

When installing the Curt Hitch Receiver # C13409 to your 2020 Forester that hole is enlarged so the grommet will not fit back in the hole. This does allow some dirt or debris inside the frame rail, which is standard on most vehicles. It is not a problem as water will not stay in that frame rail. You will want to paint the hole you enlarged to make sure there is that seal on the bare metal as corrosion could start if you skipped that sealing step.

You can add a cover to that rail if you find something large enough and then seal it with Loctite RTV 598 High-Performance Silicone Gasket Maker - Black - 2.7-Fl Oz Tube # LT37467. You will still want to paint the bare metal first however.

expert reply by: Jason S