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

Lexus 3500Ib tow hitch

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Old 07-01-10, 07:42 AM
  #61  
Eph94
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Originally Posted by CometVR4
I wasn't sure. I just don't want to jack up the hybrid system with the extra weight and I was concerned how it would work with the electric brakes.
The 400h has the same max towing capacity of 3500 lbs, assuming you have the tow prep package (which has the all-important transmission cooler to handle the added load). Otherwise, the tow capacity is somewhere in the 2000-2500 lbs. range without the tranny cooler. I can't remember the exact figure.

I just installed the Lexus hitch yesterday. Campbell's write-up on removing the interior pieces to get to the harness plug was right on the money and a big time-saver.
Old 08-26-10, 06:44 AM
  #62  
espressoRX
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The age of this thread has helped reveal how crazy the price of this Lexus hitch is. Going price now is over $400 and that is for a "decent" deal? Sewellparts.com and parts.com have the best price I can find and that is around $350 not incl. S&H. I wonder why the price has gone up so much. That is way beyond simple inflation.
Old 08-26-10, 02:37 PM
  #63  
CometVR4
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Yeah, I couldn't find a hitch anywhere near the prices quoted earlier in this thread. Most ranged from $350-$400+, which is obsured. The Lexus hitch blends in much better but for over $200 more? I'll pass...I ended up ordering a Curt hitch from Amazon.com for $136 free shipping and order wire harness from Lexus for $53+tax.
Old 08-30-10, 04:07 PM
  #64  
CometVR4
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Just connected the trailer and the lights powered right up with the factory harness from Lexus, no 'Converter Box' needed. So I'm good to go
Old 12-18-10, 03:14 PM
  #65  
yvesatl
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Just followed these instructions. Thanks so much guys, you rock !
I was able to install a Curtis hitch (Amazon.com) and OEM harness (My Lexus Parts) in 1.5 hours. Easy !

For those of you who want to know the OEM harness part # : 0894248870BB

Good luck !
Old 04-13-11, 12:25 PM
  #66  
mottrx400H
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Just got my 2008 Rx400H. I am going with the OEM Lexus tow hitch. I just wanted to see if you guys still are enjoying your decision.
Unfortunately, the price has gone up since you guys last posted. For just the hitch (no install) is $600 at the dealer and $400 at online OEM distributors. I have not find anything for less. Any suggestions?
Old 04-14-11, 10:55 PM
  #67  
s4play
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thanks guys, this is something I have to do to my SUV one of these days
Old 04-25-11, 12:01 PM
  #68  
Fatlex
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Go with the Lexus original hitch. Yes, it is expensive - $400 +, but it goes right on no problem and looks much cleaner. Even pulling apart the cargo bay to connect the wire harness was a piece of cake. Directions come with the hitch (I ordered from Sewell) but you can find them somewhere in this thread as well. It really was not bad at all. To those of you wondering if you have the skills to pull it off, fret not!
Old 05-02-11, 06:38 AM
  #69  
mottrx400H
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Default Toyota Hitch fits Rx400H

I just bought the toyota tow hitch PT228-69045. I got it last week and installed it. I have a 2008 RX400H and it fits perfect, both the tow and wiring harness.
The best I could find the lexus hitch was $400 plus shipping.
the local Lexus dealer was $600, for just the hitch and no installation.

Local toyota dealer would get their hitch for $275.
I bought it on toyota parts barn for $220 and you can get a discount from some of the toyota forums. I saved 3% with a code.

here is the link:
https://www.toyotapartsbarn.com/toyota-accessories.html

I hope this helps.
Old 08-02-11, 09:04 AM
  #70  
prowler97
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Does the Toyota hitch (Part #PT228-69045) come with the wire harness like the Lexus hitch (Part # PT228-48045)? Is there any difference in the hitch designs?

Is the Toyota wire harness the same as the Lexus; both are plug & plays.

The Lexus Hitch is up $400 online now and $508 at the dealer.
The Toyota Hitch is up to $270 online. Dealer is $205 hitch & $54 for wiring harness.

I agree the OEM hitch is the way to go. All other hitches do not look right or protrude too much from the aft end of the vehicle

Last edited by prowler97; 08-02-11 at 09:49 AM.
Old 08-04-11, 01:05 PM
  #71  
xis
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Check craigslist for your tow hitch... Make sure it fits your Lexus...

I got mine for $90 and it takes a whopping 10 minutes to put the 4 bolts on.

Old 08-08-11, 03:39 AM
  #72  
espressoRX
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Originally Posted by prowler97
Does the Toyota hitch (Part #PT228-69045) come with the wire harness like the Lexus hitch (Part # PT228-48045)? Is there any difference in the hitch designs?

Is the Toyota wire harness the same as the Lexus; both are plug & plays.

The Lexus Hitch is up $400 online now and $508 at the dealer.
The Toyota Hitch is up to $270 online. Dealer is $205 hitch & $54 for wiring harness.

I agree the OEM hitch is the way to go. All other hitches do not look right or protrude too much from the aft end of the vehicle
Answered in your other post but yes, all the important bits are the same.
Old 08-10-11, 06:45 AM
  #73  
Fatlex
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Prowler - just make sure your Lexus has the basic tow package as standard equipment (ie transmission cooler) If it does, you simply plug in the wiring once you pull up the cargo bay floor and you are all set. If your lexus does not have the basic tow package, you need some special adapater installed if expecting the brake/signal lights to work when plugged in, and the maximum towing capacity for your vehicle I believe is around 2-2500 lb w/o the tranny cooler. I'm almost positive Sewell Lexus website makes that distinction and indicates the part needed. If you are unsure if your car has the tow package, a dealer can probably tell you by providing the VIN #. In my case, I had the original MSRP sticker which lists all the options on the car. You'll be shocked how easy it is to install this thing and it would not surprise me in the least if the Toyota hitch fits, but I don't know how you're going to confirm that w/o finding someone in the know at a dealership or in this forum with inside info
Old 08-23-11, 09:41 PM
  #74  
dbl047
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Can anyone share the towing experience with the RX400h? I have a tent trailer and its about 3200lbs and wanted to know if the RX400h can handle going over the pass towing? I do have the tow prep package.
Old 09-26-11, 07:19 AM
  #75  
prowler97
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I just towed my new boat with my friends dually trailer (overkill); total weight was ~3200lbs. The 400h had NO issues towing it.

See image attached:
Attached Thumbnails Lexus 3500Ib tow hitch-kw186_on_trailer.jpg  


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