[VAL] Hitch problems

[Dick Kenan <as5368@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Gerald:
         I just looked at the Reese site, and found a set of instructions 
for a Suburban class IV hitch platform.  They say to tighten 1/2" nutss 
(3/4" socket) to 75 ft-lb if they have a lock washer; to 90 ft-lb if they 
are lock nuts.  That's all I can find from Reese; I did not look for 
pickups or heavy-duty pickups, or class  V platforms..
         If your 3/4" bolts are the actual bolt diameter, then I imagine 
the 110 ft-lb that you remember is the correct value to use.  That would 
require heavy exertion, probably using legs, at least for me.  My hitch 
nuts are fitted with a 3/4" socket; so I presume they are for 1/2" bolts.
         The whole point here is that everyone should try to find out (from 
dealer, instructions, Reese, whatever) what the correct torque value is, 
and check it out before every extended trip; at least annually as a 
minimum.  I typically find one or two of the six nuts will turn a bit 
before the torque wrench clicks; so, loose bolts on a receiver is not just 
a scare tactic - it's real.

- Dick
(5368)