1993 Grand Cherokee Trailer Hitch Replacement Problem

[rjg66]

To All:

I have a situation here and would appreciate any advice. 1993 Grand Cherokee that came with the factory trailer hitch. The hitch rusted out over the years to the point where it looked unsound, and I tried to replace it with a Draw Tite. The mounting bolts were rusted on, so I hit them with Blaster Catalyst for a week straight. Out of six bolts, two spun in the frame. I cut them off, but now have two mounting holes that are useless. Is there any way around this?

-Weld the hitch to the frame
-Cut through the floor in the rear cargo compartment to expose the inside of the frame, and mount the hitch with bolts washers and nuts
-Drill two new holes and tap them to fit

I am hoping this can be fixed, as it would be a shame to have to dump a truck that has been very good to me over two spun bolts. Thanks for your help.

[xj31]

actually what you need to do is get new bumper brackets.the hitch bolts to the brackets that hold th bumper on.not the plastic fascia but the metal bar under it.

[rjg66]

Thanks a million for your advice. I have the cover-to-cover service manual, and the replacement looks straightforward. Also gives me an excuse to replace the rear bumper cover, which is badly faded and scratched. Thanks again.