Old Jedi

I just leased a 2011 RX350 AWD. I am getting a tow hitch for it. I already have the tow prep package.

I found the Lexus hitch at Sewell, but I cannot find any info that tells me the sized of the carrier bar. Is it 1.5" or 2"? I need to order a power chair lift for my wife's power chair, and of course this is needed info before ordering the lift.

Also if anyone has any experience with chair lifts and can recommend or warn me off of any particular ones -- please chime in. I am considering the scooter store right now.

Brew1

It's a 2" but most people on here usually don't go with the Lexus hitch because it's up around $400.

Most go with the Curt I believe.

http://www.etrailer.com/hitch-2011_Lexus_RX350.htm

timlrx11

Welcome to the community. You may want to take a look at this thread...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...0-rx350-4.html

Although it mentions "Trailer hitch on 2010 RX350" but it should be applicable for 2011 RX 350 as well.


I've also installed a 2" Curt Class III receiver myself on 2011 RX 350 AWD - some pics posted here...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...rx350-awd.html

and here...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...tow-hitch.html

mdv

I would go with factory a lot better design and quality. The others are cheaper for a reason, not even close to factory hitch well worth the extra spent on it

katman

I negotiated purchase and install when I bought my 450H. I think the full price was about $1100.00 parts and labor. I paid $500. Looks like an easy install. 2 inch receiver. I don't know about the aftermarket hitches, but this one looks like it was meant to be there.

Mdkellys

I did the Lexus tow hitch and it is a 2 inch. I use it to tow a 19 foot open bow boat and it does great. The ramp we use gets slippery at the end of the season and the AWD made it a breeze with the RX. My brother in law has a rwd Honda Pilot and it struggled on the slippery ramp.

Old Jedi

Thanks for the input. I ordered the Curt hitch from Amazon. Haven't installed it yet. Are you guys that have the Curt still happy with yours? any issues ?

mac12

I have the Curt hitch and wouldn't want any other. With the draw-bar, wiring, and receiver cover it was less than $200 and easy to install. It is heavy duty, black powder coated and fits to a tee.

timlrx11

I have Curt hitch installed and so far I am happy with it. No issue... easy to install.

jclem

I installed the Curt, also and am very happy with it. However, I just use it for a bike rack. I know absolutely nothing about chair lifts and scooters, but I'm assuming you're talking about some substantial weight! From what I understand, the Lexus hitch is an entirely different animal from the Curt--MUCH heavier-duty--which you might need. I'd look into it before installing the Curt.
Just my 2 cents.

BlackDog

I have read thru all the posts in both threads. What I can't understand is the directions for the Lexus hitch says nothing about cutting a hole in the fascia. Not sure how you get the hidden look without making a hole. Also does the wiring plug just "hang" there?

Attached is the directions from the Lexus Hitch.

MrG1516

Check out Step 10 on page 6 of the instructions "Trim LH Cover". That's where the cutting is involved; not in the fascia. Even though it says use tin snips; you're cutting a piece of rubber like material. The wiring plug is attached to a metal bracket that is part of the Lexus towing hitch assembly.

mac12

[QUOTE=BlackDog;6408435]I have read thru all the posts in both threads. What I can't understand is the directions for the Lexus hitch says nothing about cutting a hole in the fascia. Not sure how you get the hidden look without making a hole. Also does the wiring plug just "hang" there?

You have to route your wiring harness to the end of the receiver where you want it, and secure in place with plastic wire ties. I bought a receiver cover that has a place to store the end of the harness.

GRANITE

Just installed mine this week. Very easy.

Old Jedi

Well, the scooters vary from 150 to 250 pounds. The lifts are generally under 100 pounds. The Curt hitch says its good for up to 400 lbs of tongue weight, so it should be good to go.