Does the Carriage Bolt have to be Used to Install Trailer Hitch on a 2013 Ford Explorer

Question:

I have the Curt trailer hitch for my 2013 Ford Explorer and installation was easy. What is the purpose of the carriage bolt? I only use the hitch for a bicycle rack and the carriage bolt doesnt seem necessary.

asked by: Tom L

Expert Reply:

The carriage bolt for Curt trailer hitch # C13386 is the rearward most attachment point for the hitch on the passenger's side of the 2013 Ford Explorer. The hitch is given its rating based on, among other things, how it attaches to the vehicle. If you did not install all of the hardware then the hitch rating is unknown and not safe for use, even if it is just a bike rack. If there was a problem then hitch warranty would be void because it was not properly installed.

You should just have to reverse fishwire it and the block in place, which is very easy. First run the spring end of the fishwire through the block, and then thread on the bolt to the spring end. Shove the bolt into the hole and then the block. Then just pull the bolt down, make sure it is seated in the square hole in the block. Remove the fishwire and install the nut and torque to spec.

expert reply by: Michael H