Stronger Integrated Tow Hitch

[TeCKis300]

Other than the likely gauge of material difference between the integrated bumper hitch and under mount weight distribution hitch, the other significant difference is going to be how each attaches to the frame. The weight distribution hitch is going to have a much larger surface area where it mounts and overlaps against the frame so that it can distribute the load and apply leverage along the frame. Hence the weight distribution terminology.

I wouldn’t bother welding that integrated hitch adaptor. That’s not going to be a distinguisher for capacity. And it’s likely internal Toyota design capacity requirements are several times higher than the stated 5k rating. So if you don’t intend to go above that rating, have at it.

 

[3D FJ]

I really want to use this integrated hitch.

1. I can't find this hitch anywhere. I've found this pic, but that's about it. I also found this website, but it's a little sketch. Is this it?

I've got one. I was going to sell it, but i have since learned that if i ever decide to go back to stock, i will need this to strengthen my cut crossmember because of my BIO bumper. Honestly, it's a bit of a pain to put the hitch pin in from under the truck and in front of the crossmember. That's the only thing i didn't like when i had it on my truck. Not to mention that not every attachment fit easily into this receiver. I'd recommend against this receiver for these two reasons.

 

[artwerks]

Thank you for all the great feedback guys. Now that I'm armed with all the right information, I'm really stuck on my decision
No, seriously, you guys have been a great help. Now I just have to either accept the faults and limitations of the integrated hitch or deal with the weight and ugliness of the under-mount-frame hitch.

My thoughts are to use a frame mounted traditional hitch if you really are going to tow. I just dont like that setup

Bamabrock,
Are you using the integrated hitch there? It looks like it, but it's hard to tell.
I'm assuming you're pulling more than, or at least very close to 5k lbs there...?

Aj

 

[bamabrock]

Thank you for all the great feedback guys. Now that I'm armed with all the right information, I'm really stuck on my decision
No, seriously, you guys have been a great help. Now I just have to either accept the faults and limitations of the integrated hitch or deal with the weight and ugliness of the under-mount-frame hitch.



Bamabrock,
Are you using the integrated hitch there? It looks like it, but it's hard to tell.
I'm assuming you're pulling more than, or at least very close to 5k lbs there...?

Aj

I'm using a below the bumper full hitch. That boat is probably close to 5000 lbs

 

[jOnathN]

If you want to keep the lower profile/higher clearance of the 2003+ hitch why not just have a shop strengthen the crossmember and weld or through-bolt the hitch mount?

FWIW the cross member is, while not amazingly thick, a pretty wide C-channel and has diagonal reinforcements where it hits the main frame rails.

Also, in other market (e.g. Australia) the same setup is rated for 3500kg tow and 350kg hitch... that's 7700lbs and 770 lbs (give or take)...so there may be a wide safety margin in the US ratings.

 

[SupraTuRD]

I would love to see close up pictures of crossmembers with and without the provisions for the "little" hitch. My guess would be that the 2003+ cross members that are ready to accept the bolt-on hitch has some kind of reinforcement.

 

[hoser]

Also, in other market (e.g. Australia) the same setup is rated for 3500kg tow and 350kg hitch... that's 7700lbs and 770 lbs (give or take)...so there may be a wide safety margin in the US ratings.

Do they have the integrated hitch in Australia?

 

[jOnathN]

Good question. I am assuming so but that may not be valid.

J

 

[tarpaigh]

I just purchased an '04 LX 470. I ordered an undermount hitch from etrailer. It looks like the spare tire and 7 pin plug have to be removed in order to install it. I am pretty disappointed because I prefer the weight distributing hitch for towing safely. Anyone tried to beef up the crossmember or use the hitch insert (part 51990-60010)?

 

[Old#7]

So in reading about the bolt holes in the rear cross members 98-02 have standard bolt holes identical to the 80 series rear bolt holes. They are the standard nato pintle hitch pattern, allowing you to use the standard 4 hole pintle that you can find almost anywhere. On the 03+ the bolt hole pattern is larger accommodating the integrated Toyota Hitch. Is this correct? I have not seen much info on this and would like to know myself. I had an 80 with the rear pintle attached and loved getting rid of my boat anchor of a tow hitch. I would like to do the same on my 100 but need to be sure before I jump head first on this.

 

[Old#7]

Anybody have a clear answer on this? Does anyone have their rear bumper off that could measure the bolt holes?

 

[artwerks]

I ended up just going with the integrated hitch. I love the low profile and its been perfect for hauling my snowmobiles all winter.

 

[taco47001]

FWIW the cross member is, while not amazingly thick, a pretty wide C-channel and has diagonal reinforcements where it hits the main frame rails.

Also, in other market (e.g. Australia) the same setup is rated for 3500kg tow and 350kg hitch... that's 7700lbs and 770 lbs (give or take)...so there may be a wide safety margin in the US ratings.

I realize this is a very old thread but do you have any links or info that can substantiate this claim? I feel the cross member hitch could accommodate a much higher rating as well but I'd like to see it in writing before I give it a whirl...

 

[viducce]

I’m planning to use a hitch mounted motorcycle carrier ( dirt bike ) can the crossmember mounted receiver take that? Something around 160kg.
Btw it’s a 2005 LX470.