Troubleshooting Demco Fifth Wheel Rail Kit for 2016 Nissan Titan with Broken Wingnut

Updated 05/22/2025 | Published 05/14/2025

Question:

I got the truck used, came with hitch already installed. wing bolt is broken off! Is there any other way to remove hitch plate?

asked by: Kris

Expert Reply:

Hey Kris, Is the wing nut broken off flush with the release mechanism? Is there any way to grab the broken threaded portion of the bolt with needle nose pilers? If you have a friend or neighbor with a welder you can weld a new bolt head to the bottom of the bolt that is still in the rail kit adapter and then use the new bolt head as a way to remove it.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Kris

5/16/2025

The bolt is broken off flush with the piece you turn. If I try to weld it I’m afraid I’ll weld the turning piece in place.

Jameson C.

5/19/2025

@Kris Yeah that's a good point. If you know maybe a "better" welder (no offense) maybe he could guarantee a way that wouldn't happen. I can't really think of a better option.

Kris

5/20/2025

@JamesonC yeah only been welding for 20 years. Guess I could try that.

Jameson C.

5/20/2025

@Kris You definitely know what you're doing. Sorry didn't mean any offense by that. I'm very much a beginner at it so I am not even sure if my suggest is reasonable or if there is a way to prevent welding it to the base. Did you try removing the allen head bolt that holds that plate down in the center?