Aftermarket hitch question

[Jeffrich21]

So last night I was installing a Hidden-Hitch purschased off of etrailer.com with my father-in-law and had a problem. One of the bolts that connects to the frame, the one closest to the cab, somehow got inserted incorrectly and now the bolt will only go in about 3/4 of the way. this was the side my father-in-law was doing. I think he screwed it up by forcing it and now the bolt's threads are all jacked. We tried redoing it three times and gave up after no progress. All the other bolts are perfect.

So my question is; is the bolt that is only in 3/4 of the way a big deal? I will be towing a 12ft camper trailer. Sorry no pictures yet. My father-in-law and his neighbor stress to me that it's not a issue, but it's not their truck.

What do you guys think? Thanks!

[farmer_74]

If you are concerned about it, you could buy a new bolt and a tap to chase the threads with before you install the bolt.

I generally had rather err on the side of caution when it comes to towing anything, so I would try to fix the threads as best you can.

Kevin

[mhadden]

From a technical standpoint, I'd say no since the others are in and you aren't hauling that big of a load, but from a asthetics standpoint, yes. You should try to fix it in the near future by re-threading.