Curt Class 2 Hitch C12038 - Bolts Are Too Short And Will Not Thread Into Frame
Updated 01/12/2026 | Published 09/04/2024
Question:
The bolts that should bolt the hitch to the frame rail are too short and wont even catch on the threads to the frame rail with the hitch on.
asked by: Landon F
Expert Reply:
Hello Landon, thanks for getting in touch. The Curt # C12038 hitch for the 1998 - 2008 Subaru Forester you mentioned mainly uses fasteners that are already present in the frame. It comes with one 7/16-14 grade 8 bolt for the driver side frame rail.
Are you saying you removed the existing fasteners from the frame rail and now they are not threading back in? This would be the first we have ever heard of this issue, and the OEM bolts should be plenty long. If they truly are too short you should be able to find a longer bolt at a local hardware store. Just make sure they are grade 8. If there is something else going on, just let me know more details and I am happy to look into it.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class II
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Which Trailer Hitch is Recommended for a 2008 Acura MDX
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: Anti-Rattle Device Recommendations for 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch Hitch Adapter
- Q&A: Does Curt Trailer Hitch 12038 Come with Lock Washers for Installation on a 2003 Subaru Forester
- Q&A: Is Using a Hitch Adapter for a Spare Tire Carrier Safe?
- Q&A: Is Tire Size 20.5 x 8-10 the Same as a 205/65-10 Trailer Tire
- Q&A: Recommended Replacement Trunnion and Pin for Reese Weight Distribution Systems
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Rooftop Cargo Carriers
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
Jesse M.
1/12/2026
Hey Landon, what ended up happening with the bolts on your Curt hitch for the Forester? Were you able to find longer grade 8 bolts that worked with the frame rail? Your update could make it easier for the next person running into the same fit issue.