What Size are the Bolts Used to Install Curt Trailer Hitch on a 2002 Subaru Forester

Updated 05/12/2014 | Published 05/10/2014

Question:

I recently purchased a trailer hitch from etrailer. It seems like the bolts from the vehicle are not quit long enough to attach the trailer hitch. If I were willing to purchase replacement bolts, what size and length would I want? Also, do that have to be pinch bolts I have never heard of pinch bolts?

asked by: Bud H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The bolts used on your 2002 Subaru Forester to install Curt trailer hitch # C12038 are 12mm bolts. They are likely coarse threaded. You will need to use grade 5 bolts or better. They should be available at a local hardware store.

Pinch bolts are usually used to hold two round things together with some sort of clamp bracket. A good example of this is a bike handlebars where you would loosen it to make vertical and alignment adjustments.

I am not sure why the bolts are not long enough. The hitch material should only be a 1/4 inch thick at most. If they seem like the bolts are just spinning and not catching anything that could mean that the weldnuts inside the frame have broken. I would have a mechanic take a look or use a flashlight and feel around in the bolt hole to check for threads.

expert reply by: Michael H