Hitch and Ball Mount Compatibility on 2010 Pontiac Vibe

Question:

Hi, I put my receiver on my 2010 Pontiac Vibe over the weekend. Easy, once I cleaned the rust out of the tapped holes. Problem: The ball mount - a replacement - hits a stop on the way in and I cannot put the pin in. It seems like my choices are either to knock the stop out of the way or to cut off the ball mount - maybe 3/8 inch - so it will go in. Sound correct? Thanks

asked by: Chuck

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your 2010 Pontiac Vibe can be fitted with either of two hitch classes, either a light-duty 1-1/4-inch Class I hitch or a higher-capacity Class II type (also 1-1/4-inch size) depending on the version of the Vibe you have. For reference the hitches we offer for your Vibe are linked at right.

It sounds like you have a Class I hitch and a non-compatible Class II ball mount. Some Class I hitches have a stop inside the tube to prevent use of ball mounts that are not rated Class I. We do not recommend knocking out that stop as there is always some potential to weaken the hitch, allow corrosion, etc. Also it is not at all advisable to cut the ball mount.

It is safer to simply replace the ball mount with a Class I unit which will avoid the issue. The link provided will show you all Class I ball mounts available and the included article will allow you to select the one that best suits your requirements.

expert reply by: Adam R