Can Hitch Crossbar Be Drilled Into to Install Trailer Connector Mounting Bracket

Question:

I have a 2013 Nissan Rogue and am looking at your RedArc controllers and mounting accessories. On the ETBC7 - about that metal plate that is supposed to mount to vehicle and hold the main 7-way socket. If I cant find a good spot to drill holes into vehicle to mount this, is it ok to drill holes in the cross-bar of the hitch? It is a Curt that I purchased from you guys about 3 years ago. I know the small holes 3/16inch or so would weaken the hitch some, but is that significant?

asked by: Norman

Expert Reply:

It's not recommended to drill holes into the hitch crossbar, as it would weaken the hitch to an unknown degree which would be unsafe.

I'd recommend using a no-drill bracket, part # C57202 which would attach to the hitch crossbar using a pipe clamp without needing to drill any holes. The bracket included with the # ETBC7 would bolt directly to the # C57202.

I'll link you to a video showing how the bracket works.

expert reply by: Mike L