Searched and couldn't find an answer:

I may have access to an OEM hitch assembly from a 2006 GX470 and am curious as to potential issues installing on my 2004.

Mostly concerned with whether it will bolt in place without major modifications to my 2004. I've read the bumper is slightly modified on newer vehicles but as you'll see I need to give the back bumper some love (paint) anyway.

I realize I can find an aftermarket assembly for around $225 (complete) but would rather have OEM.

Pics of what I currently have and it appears that "something" has been here before:











Thanks!

-Eric

 

It'll fit just fine but you need the newer "filler" piece. I installed a OEM hitch on my GX.

 

llebcire,

May I recommend some Permatex Rust Treatment for your undercarriage, it'll help the rust areas.

Not being mean, but the Permatex will help the rust.

 

Second that, you don't want to let that get out of control. Must live somewhere they salt the roads. A buddy of mine bought a Tacoma with only 50K from North Kansas, the entire frame was corroded. We ground down all the rust with a wire brush and Painted. We did this during a suspension lift so most suspension parts were off the truck making it easier to access but yours is not nearly as bad as his was, you could do a decent job with just tires off. Knock down that rust while it's light, you will thank me later, not only will your resale be better but your truck will last much longer.

 

Thanks for the info!

Hopefully it will just bolt in place

-Eric

 

Thanks redrocks!

I didn't realize how bad it was until I saw the pics

I researched your suggestion and it appears that it will also provide a nice clean black appearance as well.

-Eric

 

Yes - Iowa.

-Eric

 

Another question - Wiring.

As you can see in the pics, I don't believe my vehicle has a tow prep package (could get more pics).

What am I looking for in order to be sure?

Can the factory wiring support a simple trailer install or does it need relays?

I'm a comfortable do-it-yourselfer (ex-installer, degree in electronics, etc) so I can hard wire whatever is needed, relays or not.

I've found some wiring diagrams as well.

Thanks!

-Eric

 

I've found these plugs referenced but never found any concrete information when I searched the forums. If I remember one is three wires and the other is 4.







-Eric

 

There some threads that talk about what is needed to wire up the hitch harness.

Also if youre towing anything heavy you might want to make sure you have a trans cooler.

 

Permatex works great! I just want your GX to last as long as it should.

 

Got the hitch (complete with harness) so I should only need the relays - thinking 2 not three?

Looks like an straight forward install.

-Eric

 

I couldn't find Permatex locally but did find and use RustOleum Rust Reformer



-Eric

 

Toyota has acknowledged that they have a SERIOUS problem with rusty/corroded frames on Tacomas. Toyota even started a buy-back program where they were paying Tacoma owners 150% of the KBB value for their trucks, provided certain criteria were met--like the truck had to have "x" number of rusted-through spots and had to have spent most of its life in the rust belt.

If you wnat more info on this, see some posts on Tacoma forums, like Toyota Nation or Yota Tech.

 

Install failed - I couldn't get the bolts on both frame rails to align. When one was aligned the other was off by 1/2" - 3/4".

So - either my vehicle's frame is tweaked or something happened to the vehicle this hitch came from (was her parent's but purchased pre-owned). I didn't see any evidence the entire time I've been under my vehicle that the frame has been massaged back into place.

I was able to get the bolt installed and will leave in place (with nut & lock washer) until I find another hitch.

-Eric