Troubleshooting Trailer Hitch That Does Not Line Up to Bolt Holes on Nissan Quest

Question:

We have the one bolt started on the passenger side and when we try to bolt the driver side the holes do not line up

asked by: Jolynn P

Helpful Expert Reply:

The issue you described when trying to install the Draw-Tite Class III Trailer Hitch # 75714 on your Nissan Quest actually isn't terribly uncommon. Because trailer hitch mounting brackets are made from mild steel (which allows them to flex with the vehicle's frame during travel) the hitch can sometimes bend/flex during the shipping process. The bend can be just enough to prevent the brackets from lining up perfectly with existing holes on the vehicle's frame.

There are a few different methods we recommend for flexing the hitch back into the correct position. If you have a table vise you can use it to hold the mounting bracket while using the crosstube on the hitch as a lever (see attached image). You should be able to flex the mounting arm enough to put it back into position so that it lines up with the vehicle.

I have attached a great article on this exact subject that goes into more detail on this process along with a couple other possible methods that you can take a look at.

expert reply by: Chris R