Are Trailer Hitch Frame Mounting Brackets Replaceable if Rusted  

Question:

Expert Reply:

A Class III hitch like the Curt # 13322 is fully welded as one single unit before receiving its powder-coat anti-corrosive finish. The two frame mounting brackets are not offered as replacement parts for this or for any other hitches we offer for your truck. Just for reference I have linked you to our page for all trailer hitches that fit your 2005 GMC Sierra 1500. These include Class III, Class IV and Class V hitches from Curt, B&W and other makers.

You can remove the hitch from the truck to allow inspection of the brackets. If the rust is minor enough that you can sand it off, then doing so and re-painting the brackets with a suitable anti-corrosive paint may be okay. If you are not comfortable making that determination then you can show the hitch to a local trailer shop. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and replace the hitch.

If you do re-paint the hitch you will need to find replacement hardware of the appropriate size/grade to re-install it. You cannot re-use the old hardware; it is intended for a single use only. You can bring the original bolts and washers to a local full-service hardware/farm store to find correct replacements. Be sure to use the same grade of hardware.

Also, you will need to try to find the torque specs for your particular hitch. This may be a challenge since Valley has been out of business for several years. A hitch cannot meet its specs if it is not installed according to the manufacturer's specs.

Given the above concerns, I suggest that for safety considerations you replace the hitch with one of those on the linked page. All of our hitches include the required hardware and we have installation videos (one is linked for you) to help you with the process. An article with hitch installation tips is also linked for you.

You will need a torque wrench like # ALL944001 to secure the fasteners to the correct torque.

expert reply by: Adam R

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