Solution for Installing Hitch on 2017 Jeep Patriot that Seems Slightly Too Short

Question

Question:

There is almost a 1/4 inch gap between the hitch and frame rails on both sides 2017 patriot. My friend says just keep torquing. Im worried about damaging the frame rails. Are shims the answer?

asked by: Jay K

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Sometimes the mounting flanges of trailer hitches like the Draw Tite part # 75712 that you have can bend in shipping. Your friend is right and you can keep torquing the hitch down and it will be fine. As long as you don't see any paint flaking or metal creasing the hitch is fine.

expert reply by: Jameson C

1

Answer 1

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 2

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 3

There is only one difference between the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C13176 and etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e98909 that fit your 2020 Chevrolet Colorado, which is the finish. The Curt trailer hitch has a glossy black finish while the etrailer…

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Answer 4

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

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Answer 5

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Answer 6

Class I and Class II hitches both have a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. The difference is that a Class I hitch has a lower tongue weight rating, usually 200 pounds and a lower towing rating, usually 2,000 pounds. A Class II hitch usually has a tongue…

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Answer 7

Hello Kevin, For your 2014 Jeep Patriot I recommend the etrailer Hitch #e98836. This is a Class III hitch with a bolt-on installation. It has a concealed cross tube so only the receiver will be visible at the rear, and comes with a limited lifetime…

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Answer 8

Hello Jim, thanks for reaching out. According to Kia, the tow package connections on a 2024 Sorento will be under the driver's side rear bumper cover. We have not been notified of any changes for the 2025 models, but it is too soon to say for…

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Answer 9

As long as the Jeep Patriot you choose has a manual transmission then it can be flat-towed with all four wheels on the ground but you will need to take a look in the owner's manual as there are usually other stipulations you must abide by. If you…

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Answer 10

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part #C13081 which is a fit for your 2014 Jeep Compass as you mentioned recommends the use of the Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap part #18050 for all non-towing accessories. The reason for the strap is to prevent…

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Answer 11

Your trailer has a standard 4-Way flat trailer connector which is one of the most common connectors in the US. Trailer wiring harness #C55050 will be compatible and does fit your 2008 Jeep Compass. We do not have a video showing installation, but I…

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Solution for Installing Hitch on 2017 Jeep Patriot that Seems Slightly Too Short

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