Quote:
Originally posted by bobgore
I hope this helps because I've been wrestling with this hitch thing for a couple of weeks. If you install the aftermarket hitch (Hidden Hitch etc) and have that knockout with the notch for the Lexus hitch, you can order a new knockout without the notch. You have to give the VIN to your Lexus parts man so they can match your paint.
OR....you can get the hitch Toyota makes for the V6 4Runner (their parts book calls it a "pintle hitch") which mounts behind the notch on the "hitch receiver" you already have. Be careful with the Toyota hitch because it does not have the tow capacity of the V8 hitch. Problem with the V8 hitch is that Toyota/Lexus is not installing them because (depending on who you talk to) 1) the V8 does not pass EPA test under tow; or 2) there is a design flaw in the hitch. My Lexus dealer will not install non-Lexus parts, and to have the Toyota hitch installed requires removing the back bumper which, reportedly, takes about an hour. The hitch simply bolts on to that plate (tow hitch receiver) you see under your bumber. The electrical connection is to the left of the plate as you look at it.
In my case, here I sit with a 4X4 that comes standard with (according to Lexus literature and web site) a "Tow-hitch receiver" and no way to tow my trailer. So I'm now looking for an independent shop that will install the Toyota hitch (the GX is basically a 4Runner) on my GX. Before I do this I need to order one of those bumber knockouts with the notch since mine doesn't have one. it's about $65 according to my dealer.
This superb company has done an absolutely lousy job of informing its customers about this issue. It is a shame that most of what I have learned has been on these posts. It appears the same goes for you.
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bobgore,
Thanks for your insight - I agree with you that I'm amazed at how little appropriate information is available from Lexus on this issue. My question stems more from the fact that I have a 2005 GX on order and the order was spec'd with the hitch receiver w/ ball mount. I'm just trying to figure out which version of it will actually be on the vehicle when it arrives. I'm hoping it is the nicely integrated one you are describing, but I'm not holding my breath. Strange that they put the notched bumper piece in on seemingly all of the vehicles, but the hitch they install at the port doesn't fit in it?? Does your vehicle sticker have the "tow hitch package" listed but no notch in the bumper?