2004 with integrated hitch bumper - bike rack?

[rjsdsu]

Hi all - just picked up a gorgeous '04 LX last month. Near mint condition with 140k. I love driving this truck. This is an '04 with the plastic cut-out on the rear bumper. I would like to install my 2" hitch mount bike rack. It seems that the tow attachment (Toyota p/n 5199060010) will work. Before I throw down $150, any one else have a hitch mount bike rack on theirs?

Alternatively, I could just buy a new hitch that protrudes beneath the bumper.

Thanks in advance.

RJ

 

[bozncsurf]

I would remove the plastic cover and insert the bike rack to see if you get any interference with the spare tire .. I think a member a few post back installed a "below bumper hitch" for this very reason.

On the other hand, some below bumper trailer hitches limit the size of spare you can carry if you choose to go bigger.

And again if you choose a bigger tire in the spare well that could interfere with the bike rack in the integrated bumper hitch.

Geez.

Hope this helps.

 

[johsti]

I just removed the integrated hitch on my 05 LX and installed an LC hitch (part# PT228-60033) for this reason. The integrated hitch will not accept most bike racks, or ball mounts, without modification or removal of the spare tire. The spare tire prevents the hitch pin from being seated. There is only about 2" from the hitch pin to the spare tire and most bike racks require at least 2.5" of clearance.

 

[bamabrock]

Drill a new hole in the bike rack.

 

[johsti]

Drill a new hole in the bike rack.

My bike rack has a threaded hitch pin. I could cut an inch or so off the back of the rack, but still be limited to a stock size spare tire.

 

[s2kutah]

I have a below the bumper standard mount (Curt). Use the Kuat NV 2.0 and it fits perfectly. Must tilt bikes to open window and without bikes attached you can lower the tailgate. Depending on the carrier, having it come from the bumper, if it fits would limit access to the rear more.