Does The Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # 36336 Require All 4 Drivers Bolt Holes To Be Used?

Question:

Hello, in my 2005 ES330, there appears with one hole already drilled on the driver side rear frame with a black plastic cover. Do I need to drill another hole? In the video, the last hole was left open without a bolt. Is it safe to have only three bolts?

asked by: Frank H

Expert Reply:

For the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # 36336 on your 2005 Lexus ES 330 if the 3rd hole on the drivers side frame rail has a threaded weld nut you will not use the u-bolt to secure the receiver. The manufacturer instructions which I have linked below addresses these particular vehicles in step 4.

They state " 4. If existing weldnut is present in location shown above, omit U-Bolt and use existing weldnut and optional fastener."

This reflects how we installed the receiver our installation video on a Lexus similar to your vehicle.

A Nylon Tube Brush # 814092 is recommended to ensure the weld nuts are cleaned out before installing the hardware to prevent any damage to the threads.

expert reply by: Bud M