Can Less Torque Be Used On Draw-Tite Hitch for 2011 Honda CR-V With Rusted Weld Nuts

Updated 06/18/2021 | Published 06/17/2021

Question:

I had quite a bit of corrosion in my weldnuts that I have cleaned out with a tap. I am hesitant to torque the bolts to 38 ft/lbs of torque as I fear some of the rust may be from the threads. Do you recommend reducing the torque if weldnuts are rusted and had to be cleaned out? If so, by how much?

asked by: JOEL C

Expert Reply:

I do recommend torqueing the bolts for the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 75547 on a 2011 Honda CR-V to spec. In regards to the condition of the weld nuts, the only thing you can do is tap them to clear out the rust so you can then thread the bolt in. If the bolts do not torque or the weld nuts break then you will have no other choice but to drill them out and replace them with carriage bolts and spacer blocks. There is also the option to tap the weld nuts to the next size up but usually you are better off just drilling them out and switching hardware.

expert reply by: Conner L