Bolts For Trailer Hitch on a 2007 Jeep Patriot Will Not Fit Factory Weldnuts

Question:

The hitch # 36423 came in the mail this weekf for my 2007 Jeep Patriot and during my attempt to install I discovered that the 5/8 hex bolts that came with the hitch are too wide for bushings on my frame rails. Do you know what size of hex bolt will fit through the bushings? How will a smaller size bolt effect the performance of the hitch? Is this a common issue with the 2007 Jeep Patriot? Please help.

asked by: Jace T

Expert Reply:

It sounds like what you are experiencing are weldnuts that are packed with grime and corrosion. This happens if a vehicle has seen at least 1 winter. You will need to clean out the weldnuts using a spray lubricant like WD-40, a wire brush like # DW00254, and some muscle. I have included some links that will explain and show you how to get the weldnuts cleaned out so you can install the bolts and hitch.

expert reply by: Michael H