Installing Hitch When Holes Do Not Line Up

Updated 08/11/2014 | Published 08/09/2014

Question:

I just purchased this hitch for a 2002 Chevy Tahoe rwd. I mounted it as instructed however the holes for the 2 bolts that go into the bumper do not align. They are about 3/8 to a 1/2 inch off. As the bumper has pre welded nuts I cant just drill new holes and through bolt them. I am only towing about 3500 lbs a short distance at a time so... will it be ok without this extra support, as trailer hitches on smaller vehicles do not have these bolts yet cant bear as much weight as this is designed for, but enough capacity for this trailer... or do I return it as something may be messed up with this hitch...or is it possible to use a pry bar and make the holes align, I dont see this happening, but I havent tried? If you were installing this hitch what would be your plan of action? Thank you in advance for your time and advice. Cline ps. I can supply a pic of the misalignment later if needed.

asked by: Captaincline

Expert Reply:

I spoke with our installers and they told me that this will happen time to time. They said there are times when the auto manufacturer will have the holes moved just a bit, but they work with them to make it work.

They told me that they use a tool they call an alignment tool. It is a steel rod about a foot long that is tapered on one end. They insert it through one of the holes on the hitch and then in one of the holes on the frame to align the holes up. They have someone assist them and insert the bolt through the open hole. They said when they tighten it up the hitch will flex enough to make a solid fit.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L