How to Clean Rusted Frame Weld Nuts to Install Trailer Hitch on 2013 Chevy Equinox

Updated 11/21/2020 | Published 11/20/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(264)

$164.54

Battery Post and Terminal Cleaner - Wire Brush

(15)

$5.02

Tap Wrench Kit for Standard Pipe Sizes - Metric - 6 Pieces

(5)

$12.23

Question:

The welded nuts are rusted out can it be fixed or not

asked by: Larry J

Expert Reply:

The Draw-Tite # 36408 Class II hitch you referenced uses 4 M12x1.75 bolts to attach to the nuts welded into the frame. If they are corroded, and spraying them with a spray lubricant like PB Blaster and using a wire brush like one on a battery terminal cleaner like # DW00254 hasn't done the trick, you'll need to re-tap the threads. We offer a tap wrench set, part # PT22FR that includes an M12x1.75 tap. Before attempting to run the tap through the threads, be sure to hit each nut with a good shot of spray lubricant. Be sure that the tap runs through the threads perfectly straight and not an an angle.

expert reply by: Mike L