RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX330, RX350 and RX400H models

trailer hitch lexus PT228-48045 = toyota PT228-69045

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Old 08-08-11, 10:05 AM
  #16  
groomerz
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That is how they pay for all the complimentary courtesy cars, snacks and drinks while you wait. Lexus dealers have higher overhead so profit margins are higher. When you install it leave all bolts loose until they are all in, then tighten. In my original post there is a link to the install manual if it is not in the box. If you have any ?'s let me know.
Old 09-30-11, 12:14 PM
  #17  
dhuston99
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Can anyone tell me how to tell if my RX400h has the factory towing package or if I need to buy the converter?
Old 10-03-11, 10:20 AM
  #18  
groomerz
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find the wiring harness in the rear compartment. The plug will have 4 wires - white(ground), Green(right turn/stop), yellow(left turn/stop), Blue(taillight/license/side marker. If you have a test light check them to verify the condition by clipping the alligator clip to a good grounding point on the chassis or to the white wire and then individually to each wire when in operating mode eg. green when signaling left or applying the brake.
Old 10-10-11, 08:12 AM
  #19  
prowler97
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Easiest way to find out if your Lexus has tow package is call Lexus 800 number and give them the VIN and they will be able to tell if you have the tow package or not.
Old 05-11-12, 08:01 AM
  #20  
smassey321
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I installed my Toyota hitch last night. I was surprised how easy it was. I got it for $220 from a local Toyota dealer with at 20% off accessory coupon found on their website. I picked up a Lexus hitch plug for $14 on ebay.

At the parts counter I asked for a Toyota hitch and they quoted out a hitch and wiring as 2 part numbers. This seemed odd and it turns out the southeastern parts distributor sells a re-branded Reese hitch. I did not want the bar around the exhaust so I requested that they order the OEM part number listed in the first post. It was only $20 more to get the real factory hitch kit.

Lifting up the hitch was easier than I thought it would be. The drivers side has a single stud hanging down. I lifted that side of the hitch, put the nut half way on to hold up that side and then was easily able to lift the pass side and install the rest of the bolts.

I was able to connect the wiring by only removing the tool tray. I reached in under the rear tray and pulled the wire harness loose from its taped location. I was then able to plug it to the hitch wiring by feel.

I removed the 2 plastic covers from my hybrid. The instruction say to throw them out but I plan to trim the edges and re install them.

The Lexus instructions attached in the first post mention that a tow bar is included in the kid. New Toyota and Lexus kits no longer include the tow bar.
Old 05-23-12, 06:43 AM
  #21  
glassmanj
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i know i'm just reposting some info but it saves some time for others. another tip on whether you have the tow package i believe is to simply look at your front radiator and look and see if there is a small additional radiator. that's the auxilliary transmission cooler. it's standard on the 2006 400h but i don't think very many other models. with it you can tow 3500# without 2000# i think.

also, another tip for finding standard features on a car is to go to selling sites like cars.com or the like and find a year and model the same as yours. i just bought a 2006 400h and found under the standard equipment it has the aux trans cooler listed. didn't know that when i bought it and simply found a similar car listed. i also searched other similar models like the 300 and 350 and didn't find any that had it standard.

and one final note on shopping online, no matter what site you are on, if during checkout they offer a REDEEM CODE or COUPON CODE box or whatever, before you checkout simply open another window and do a search for the name of the site you are on plus COUPON and many times you'll find a code. i just listed old car on cars.com and their fee was $55 (which is great as they give u carfax too) but i searched and within 30 seconds found a 20% off code and saved $11. for 30 seconds of work. i saved $200 on my last vacation with orbitz because i found a save $200 code for a weeks booking. took me 1 minute to save $200. many times you can simply get free shipping. means you have to work less for you money.
Old 05-24-12, 03:25 PM
  #22  
lanb
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Question - Is this a class II or class III hitch ?

Toyota PT228-69045 seems to indicate it is class II

http://www.trdtoyotaparts.com/script...dproduct=25926

and

Lexus PT228-48045 seems to indicate it is class III

http://www.factorylexusparts.com/ser...III-TOW/Detail
Old 05-24-12, 07:45 PM
  #23  
glassmanj
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great ? lanb,
from what i can find, it's completely confusing. this link has the grades,
http://www.hitchesonline.com/hitch_selection.htm

CLASS II is rated 350# tongue, 3500# trailer. and CLASS III is 500#/5000#. so by that all the available hitches are CLASS II. but all except the Toyota are listed *** CLASS III but are only rated at 350/500.

and this link says the difference is that CLASS II only has 1-1/4" hitch, but the Toyota says it has 2" so that's confusing.
http://www.etrailer.com/question-4107.html

the reality is, every hitch, including Curt, Uhaul, etc, for the RX models are all rated at 350/3500 and all has 2".

so imho, it doesn't matter. the RX is rated for 350/3500 with the tow package. *** long as your hitch is rated for that, and has the 2" opening, you're good.
Old 05-25-12, 01:35 PM
  #24  
andresatp
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One more satisfied Club lexus reader, just installed the toyota hitch on my 05' lexus rx 330, no problems at all took me an hour! Thanks for the posts!
Old 05-25-12, 08:14 PM
  #25  
lanb
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Yeah glassmanj, the class thing is kind of confusing.

Got the hitch today from a local Toyota dealer for $220 + tax (with 20% off accessories coupon).

Planning to install over the weekend. Fingers crossed.

On a side note, any recommendations for a not-so-expensive 4-bike rack (prefer ones that swing).

Last edited by lanb; 05-25-12 at 08:18 PM.
Old 05-26-12, 04:54 AM
  #26  
cartman57
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Originally Posted by lanb
On a side note, any recommendations for a not-so-expensive 4-bike rack (prefer ones that swing).
eBay Item number: 120919141560

Swings down and holds 4 bikes for $50, shipping is expensive though @ $25, hope it'll help
Old 05-26-12, 02:43 PM
  #27  
lanb
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Originally Posted by cartman57
eBay Item number: 120919141560

Swings down and holds 4 bikes for $50, shipping is expensive though @ $25, hope it'll help
Thanks, I will take a look.

Me and a friend (a mechanic with tools) installed the hitch and wiring today.
Hitch took about 45 mins. Wiring took about 45 mins as well because of the
numerous clips/bolts to remove to access the connector.
Any one know of a easy way to test the wiring ? The instructions talk of a
special service tool.

My $0.02 - I would recommend installing the wiring while u are at this even if you
currently do not plan to pull a trailer, just to be prepared / done.

Tip - The Toyota rubber hitch cap is pretty loose and prone to falling off.
Stuff it with a block of cut styrofoam to make it tighter.


Thanks to all for the excellent instructions/knowledge sharing.

Last edited by lanb; 05-26-12 at 03:08 PM.
Old 04-08-13, 07:10 AM
  #28  
woodenboat
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Default confirmation about 228-4805 fitting 2009 RX 350

I found a site selling the toyota trailer hitch pt228-69045 \ pt228-4805 for $ 240+ shipping. I need to confirm that I'd be making the right decision.
Old 04-15-13, 03:34 AM
  #29  
straasha
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Yes, it is the right hitch. See the picture I took at post #11. The hitch is stamped with both part numbers.
Old 04-27-13, 08:35 AM
  #30  
Happycoop
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Originally Posted by woodenboat
I found a site selling the toyota trailer hitch pt228-69045 \ pt228-4805 for $ 240+ shipping. I need to confirm that I'd be making the right decision.
What site? Please share as I'm in the market for an OEM hitch for our 05 RX330 as well. Any coupon codes needed or just a great deal?

Thanks!


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