Ok here's the story I ordered a Reese Hitch the 44082 to be exact. The hitch looks right, the bolts fit, and there's 6 holes correctly spaced to fit on to an 05 Jeep liberty. However, when trying to put it on the tips of the mounting brackets pinched the gas; it was in a slight "V" shape instead of following parallel to the frame. I'm shipping it back and getting a different one and before I do I'd like to get some that you guys have used, or know for a fact work. I am looking at a fairly heavy hitch (using it for a rear recovery point too) so i want a sturdy unit, please let me know and IMHO Reese isn't the way to go.

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05 o|||||||o Liberty 4x4 Patriot Blue w/Custom Black Trim
Kenwood Excellon KDC-X693 w/Alpine 500w AMP Bridged dual Alpine Subs
Frankenlift I w/Extra Isolator - ARB with Warn M8000
Goodyear Duratrac's 245/75/R16 on Cregar soft 8's, Full Skids

I put the same Reese hitch on mine about 6 months ago. I'm not sure I completely understand the problems your describing. But it sounds like the hitch was collapsed in on itself resulting in a snug fit around the tank?

Mine was the opposite when I installed it. It was slightly bowed resulting in as easier install. However I had no issues lining up the bolt holes and everything came back in line with no issues with no clearance problems

Reese are one of the better hitches out there. I would try to find a local dealer and pick another up and just look at it before you do.

One word of advice is to grab the correct tap for the bolt holes and chase them before you do. They tend to get full of garbage and can cause you fits.

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2005 Liberty Sport
Bright Silver
Automatic
Sunroof
Reese 2" Class 3 Hitch for towing the sleds.