rear receiver hitch

[clownmidget]

Hey I noticed today on what appeared to be a brand new LX470 that the rear bumper, the part that is completely wrapped in plastic, had an integrated receiver hitch that must have tied into the rear frame cross-member. The receiver piece looked like it was cast with the center hole for the tongue and two side rings for hooking the chains to. It was held onto the frame cross-member by four allen-style head bolts - recessed I think. Anyway, a very nice clean looking version that had great ground clearance compared to the styles I've seen on every other one where it bolts to the frame side rails - Valley Industries and the like. I know on the earlier 80, 62/60, etc series the four holes on the rear cross member are fine for mounting a pintle style hitch but I've always been told they aren't rated for towing. This new Lexus appeared to be doing exactly that but with the reciever style. It looked like the bolt pattern was a bit different than the "standard" style on previous versions. Anyway, just wondered if anyone else had noticed this and knew details of capacity, mounting, etc.
Mike R.

 

[sleeoffroad]

It is a oem Toyota piece, but the bolt pattern does not line up with the old pattern. Amando had one on the back of his 100 in Moab.

 

[hoser]

I've noticed it as well. Seems like many newer SUV's are putting their hitch within the bumper. Looks like a good idea.

When comparing the specs of a 1998 LX470 to a 2004 LX470, the 98 is rated at 6500lbs towing capacity and the 04 at only 5000 lbs. I'm not sure if if the bumper/hitch is THE reason though.

The payload capacity is reduced as well. From 1459 to 1270lbs. This is according to www.autos.msn.com

 

[Snook]

Amando and I had to relocated (cut & weld with extra plates of steel) the four holes in order for OEM hitch to bolted to, just like what Slee said. Only the one (top of the line model) that comes with removable OEM hitch will have the four holes already lined up.

 

[DMX84]

Is it possible to make one ourselves? I would like to re-locate my hitch as the trials bike- rack tends to drag going over obstacles. What do you guys think?
Christo, are you making rear bumpers yet for the 100's? I like your proto-type you have on the 470.

 

[ShottsUZJ100]

Slee's bumper should be ready around Novemeber or so. I bought his prototype.

 

[cruiserdan]

I had one of those in stock for a while. It is a heavy cast material with a very nice finish. It will not work in an 80 series xmember because the pattern is larger. You would end up with over-lapping holes. I built a custom in-frame for mine that was patterned after the 100 series cast unit.