Troubleshooting Curt Hitch Hardware Not Fitting 2008 Jeep Liberty

Question:

Ive purchased the Curt 13245 class III trailer hitch for my 2008 Jeep Liberty. The bolts that come with are correct as Ive read and researched a ton. My bolts holes have been cleaned of any debris and are not rusty. The bolts are far too big to even start to thread. I even tried a tap and die kit and it will not thread. Using the tools to size down 1 size it will still not start to thread. Jeep is stock. Are there any other options for installation?

asked by: Frederico G

Expert Reply:

The hardware that comes with the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # 13245 are 6 conical tooth washers and 6 M12x1.75 bolts.

These are designed to fit your 2008 Jeep Liberty exactly so if the hardware isn't fitting I'd triple check what you received is correct. If you ordered it from us let me know what your order number is and I can have our customer service team reach out to you.

I've never heard of this being a problem with this hitch before so the only thing I can think of is that you need to spray the bolt holes with WD-40, let it site for a bit, and then scrub them with a brush like part # 814092. The next step would be the tap and drill kit like you mentioned but you'll want to make sure that matches the M12x1.75 bolt size as well.

If you can verify everything I mentioned above then the only thing left to do is have a shop do the installation for you as they would be able to ensure that the hitch is properly installed and will hold up up the weight limits given to the hitch.

Attached is an installation video and a helpful article about cleaning the bolt holes for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jon G