Cleaning Corroded Weld Nuts on 1997 Toyota Camry

Question:

I purchased a Drawtite 36336 to install on my 97 Camry. It appears that the bolts supplied are too large in diameter to fit the weldnut holes. I can not thread them into the holes.

asked by: Paul B

Expert Reply:

Due to the age of your vehicle, there is an excellent chance that there is a significant amount of corrosion and road grime built up in the weld nuts in the frame of your Camry. This build up is what is preventing the bolts from threading into the weld nuts. The best way to clean the threads is to use a spray lubricant and a wire brush like that on the battery post and terminal cleaner, part # DW00254. In some extreme cases, the corrosion is bad enough that a thread tap the same size as the bolt (M10 X 1.25 thread pitch) needs to be used. Once the corrosion and road gunk is removed from the weld nuts, the hardware should go in easily for you.

We actually have a video showing how to clean the weld nuts to make installation easier. To view the video, click on the provided link.

expert reply by: Mike L