Trailer Hitch Installation on 2010 Chevrolet Traverse With Rusted Weld Nuts

Question:

I want to install a hidden hitch on my 2010 chevy traverse. It is 5 to 6 years old now and when I looked underneath to check the mounting holes , I found them severly rusted.The theads are rusted away. What can I do?

asked by: Rich W

Expert Reply:

Installation of a hitch like Draw-Tite # 75528 in your 2010 Chevrolet Traverse whose frame weld nuts are rusted out will require some special attention. My contact at Draw-Tite recommends that you try cleaning out the weld nuts. Often weld nuts can be brought back to a serviceable condition.

First, you'll want to spray a penetrating lubricant (PB Blaster, or WD40) into the nuts and allow it to work overnight. You can repeat this step for a few days if time permits. Then use a tube brush like # 814113 to clean out the threads. You may require several solvent applications and brush cleanings to get all of the rust out. It won't all come out on the first cleaning.

Next you can use a M12 x1.75 pitch tap to chase the threads. This process can be tricky and you want to avoid breaking off the tap. It is best to turn it clockwise one turn, then back it out 1/2 turn. Do this for each turn of the tap in each hole; this backing out helps to get any metal fragments out of the hole's threads. Work your way in slowly, turning clockwise and then counterclockwise, while keeping the tap as clean as you can.

It can be tough to get hitch hardware into weld nuts on even brand new vehicles and this spraying and brushing technique is often required even on new cars.

expert reply by: Adam R