Why Does Crossmember On 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Need To Be Removed To Install Trailer Hitch Receiver
Question:
In the instructions and your video you remove and discard the center brace that is behind the factory cross brace which is also being removed. I have questions about that center brace. It would appear that the brace would add to the structural integrity of the towing system after the receiver bar in installed. So why discard it? - no bolt holes in the receiver assembly? - - why not? - - Is it not recommended that those holes be drilled out and the brace reinstalled after the receiver? - no room for the spare after the install? I am not criticizing the product as I have yet to attempt the installation. It just seems odd that any additional support for the towing system would be left out. Thank you.
asked by: Gregory A
Expert Reply:
The reason the crossmember on your 2021 Chevrolet Colorado needs to be removed is it takes up the exact same space as the trailer hitch receiver, in this case the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98909 you purchased, and uses the same mounting holes. There would not be a way to use both at the same time.
The crossmember is only installed on vehicles without a factory trailer hitch receiver, and with the trailer hitch receiver installed you will have the exact same strength and support as the crossmember.
You should not drill any hole in the trailer hitch receiver, as that will void the warranty of the hitch.
I included a video of the # e98909 being installed on a similar 2020 Chevrolet Colorado for your to take a look at.
Products Referenced in This Question
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 800 lbs TW
- 8000 lbs GTW
- 10000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 1000 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hopkins Multi-Tow 7-Way Blade and 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector - Chevrolet/GMC
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
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