Back in 2015 or 2016, I installed a Curt class 2, 1-1/4" hitch. Last summer I removed it to perform 'rust control' because the road salt took it's toll causing pitting and surface rust and I wanted to save the hitch from further deterioration. Upon inspection it was still plenty solid and could have gone a few more years . The black powder coat was peeling off in big pieces or just gone. After seeing that, I'd recommend coating a new hitch with something more durable before installation.
Removal was easy for one person once the muffler was removed (I did the same when I installed it). Also when I originally installed it, I double nutted the bolts to cover exposed threads, so the nuts easily came off the mounting bolts. After rust removal, primer and paint the double nuts went back on and then painted over. Also replaced the muffler flange gasket before reinstallation since it was crumbling. Just my experience.