Mounting Curt Front-Mount Hitch Receiver #31352 on 2005 Ford Eddie Bauer 4WD Expedition

Question:

There are no rearmost mounting holes for the third set of bolts

asked by: Mark H

Expert Reply:

This front-mount hitch receiver, part # 31352, is the correct specified part for your 2005 Ford Expedition 4WD. I spoke to my contact at Curt Manufacturing regarding the third mounting hole, which evidently is missing from your Expedition.

I am told that although this does not happen often, on occasion the vehicle manufacturer may omit the step of punching this third mounting hole. If your expedition lacks this third hole you will need to drill the frame rails.

You should temporarily secure the hitch to the two existing mounting holes on both sides. You do not need to fully tighten these down to the specified torque rating, but just get the four mounting bolts in place and reasonably tight to ensure the hitch is aligned properly to enable you to mark the correct position for the third hole on each side, which you will need to drill.

Before you drill you will want to confirm the presence and location of the access slot on the side of the frame rail. This is the opening through which you will need to insert the fishwire tool to get the mounting carriage bolt and square hole spacer into position. Please refer to the attached instructions for the hitch which provide a diagram showing the approximate position of this access slot.

Once you have marked the correct location for the third mounting hole, use a center punch to create a starting point for your drill bit. You will need to start a pilot hole with a smaller bit, say a 1/8-inch, and move up in size until you have drilled out the required 9/16-inch hole to accommodate the 1/2-inch carriage bolt.
Next use the fishwire tool to feed the bolt and spacer into position in the frame rail. Once all three bolts per side are fitted, torque them to the specified rating.

expert reply by: Adam R