Troubleshooting Stripped Weld Nuts on Trailer Hitch Installation

Question:

2017 Toyota Camry. I tried to move hitch from side to side to get the 4 rear holes to align properly before I tightened them. There is almost no movement from side to side because the hitch touches both sides of the trunk spare tire well. I got all of the bolts to screw in except the rear-most muffler clamp bolt. I stripped the provided 19mm bolt and also the factory bolt that was originally in the muffler clamp. It seems the holes in the hitch werent drilled correctly. I dont know how to fix this problem. Thanks.

asked by: Rick G

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4" # C12107 is a confirmed fit for your 2017 Toyota Camry. It sounds like the holes may have been misdrilled at the manufacturer, but it is a higher probability that there could have been a slight bend in the mounts during shipping as this does occur from time to time. Since you have stripped out the screw and the weldnuts, the best thing to do at this point is get a screw tap and matching grade 5 bolt from a local hardware or home improvement shop. You will want to only go slightly bigger than your current 19mm bolt.

I've attached an article to assist with the installation and also attached a video for a full removal of the weld nut if needed, but the tap should work just fine for you.

expert reply by: Jason S