Should Thread Locker and Lock Washers be Used When Installing Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver

Updated 11/14/2026 | Published 11/13/2026

Question:

I am about to install a hitch myself. We had someone install the same hitch, but there were no lock washers, or Loctite used in the previous installation. are these not needed? Would it be recommended to use those so we dont have to worry about bolts backing themselves out?

asked by: Joey W

Expert Reply:

Thanks for letting us help Joey and I can definitely understand your concern here. If you're installing the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C15703, I would actually recommend not adding thread locker or lock washers to the installation. Neither of these is included with the hardware supplied by Curt or called for in the installation instructions. Adding them could actually change how the hardware tightens down and potentially interfere with achieving the proper clamping force. The most important thing is to use the hardware supplied with the hitch and torque everything to Curt's specifications. These hitches are designed and tested using that specific hardware and installation procedure, so there's no need to add anything extra. I'm including an installation video for # C15703 in case you'd like to check it out.

What are you planning to tow with your Silverado?

expert reply by: Christopher H

C15703 Hardware Torque Specifications
(click to enlarge)

Included Components and Hardware
(click to enlarge)

Joey W.

11/13/2026

I work for a general contractor, and I am the metal fabricator for the company. so we tow anything from heavy metal to wood. So it can be heavy one day and decently light in comparison on another.

Rick B.

11/14/2026

@JoeyW I followed the instructions and used the hardware that was supplied with the hitch, I tow a trailer with a 12,000 lb. Excavator and haven’t had any issues with the hitch or the hardware coming loose.I’ve had the hitch for about five years now and would recommend it to anyone.

Christopher H.

11/14/2026

@RickB I'm glad you hopped in here with some real world towing experience with the # C15703. Very helpful!

Christopher H.

11/14/2026

@JoeyW Gotcha. I get the inclination to make some improvements to the installation. I'm that way naturally as well. Here I think the best way to go will just be to stick to the installation recommendations from Curt. Great info here though as I'm sure you're not the only one with this thought.

Timk

11/14/2026

As mentioned, follow Curtis installation instructions. Curtis has been in business very long time. There products are engineered with specifications from the hardware manufacturers. Between engineering at Curtis and the fasteners supplier, it's designed with a safety, quality, and longevity design. Lockwashers can crack/break and the broken pieces fall out and now you have a loose bolt. I would highly recommend not to deviate from the installation instructions. If not installed per instructions could lead to a safety issue and warranty issue. I have been using my hitch for pulling a fully loaded 25' enclosed trailer with my 2500HD truck , no problems.