How To Retrieve A Bolt That's Fallen Inside Of The Frame Rail
Updated 10/04/2024 | Published 09/25/2024
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Question:
Hi there! Working with a 2011 Mazda 3 Grand Touring hatchback here. As I was fishing the VERY last bolt through my car frame, it came off the wire. Bummer. Do you have any recommendations for getting it out of there? If not, could I request a replacement bolt and spacer? And also any advice for immobilizing the lost ones so they doesnt rattle around in there forever? Thanks so much, Brice
asked by: Brice T
Expert Reply:
Hi Brice,
This happens to me every now and then too when I'm down in the shop. I typically just use a magnetic retrieval tool. This is just a magnet on a bendable stick and can be purchased from your local hardware store for cheap. You should be able to get it into the frame and attached to the loose bolt to pull back out. Aside from that you would have to cut a large enough hole to get your fingers or another tool in there to retrieve the bolt.
We don't carry just a single spacer and bolt for the Curt # C11383 but you could reach out to Curt for a replacement if needed or see if you could source them locally:
.250 x .88 x 2.25" SQUARE HOLE SPACER
BOLT,CAR,7/16-14 UNC,1-1/2,GRD8,YZ
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Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class I
- 200 lbs TW
- 2000 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
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Brice
10/4/2024
Thanks! I went to the shop for another need and they were able to fish it out with the magnet for free while it was up in the stand.