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Rusted hitch still safe?

Discussion in 'Towing' started by Kraut, Jul 8, 2011.

  1. Jul 8, 2011 at 12:32 PM
    #1
    Kraut

    Kraut [OP] Member

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    An aftermarket hitch came with my 2003 V6 Tacoma but it looks pretty weathered. I took it off today to get a better look. Most of the paint has separated and it is covered in varying degrees of rust. I'm wondering if I could just sandblast it and keep using it or if I should just buy a new one. I'm about to move my girlfriend with a 6x12 Uhaul trailer. Anyone have advice to offer? Thanks

    Inside mounting bracket:
    IMAG0991_fa2a487c2fd33fb32d232e0796a264b2c395b81f.jpg

    Heres what it looked like after I went at it with a wire brush:
    [​IMG]
     
  2. Jul 8, 2011 at 12:34 PM
    #2
    steve o 77

    steve o 77 braaap

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    looks fine to me. Just get that rust off and treat it with some kind of paint over rust product to prevent it from getting worse.

    I want to see the frame on your truck:eek:
     
  3. Jul 8, 2011 at 12:38 PM
    #3
    Pugga

    Pugga Pasti-Dip Free 1983 - 2015... It was a good run

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    x2, the rust seems to be more on the surface rather than pitting in and rusting through.
     
  4. Jul 8, 2011 at 12:40 PM
    #4
    BradleyScottETC

    BradleyScottETC Class IV Category 8 Elite VIP Member (Only)

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    Pick up a wire wheel and throw it in a drill. A lot faster than a brush. :D
     
  5. Jul 8, 2011 at 12:49 PM
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    scocar

    scocar hypotenoper

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    Sheesh, I would sandblast that. As long as the welds and thickness are good, should be OK.

    Oh, that reminds me, I still need to repaint and install the one I bought...
     
  6. Jul 8, 2011 at 2:07 PM
    #6
    Kraut

    Kraut [OP] Member

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    I did use a drill to blast off what I could. I'm thinking of going the sandblasting route. As for the frame, its seen better days for sure but its not nearly as bad as the hitch. Right before I bought it the truck went to the dealership for the rust issue that affects 1st gens. It passed their inspection and they put a fresh coat of undercoating on. Over 160k miles so far and no signs of slowing down.
     
  7. Jul 8, 2011 at 2:10 PM
    #7
    97yota4wd

    97yota4wd Well-Known Member

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    alot of metal, small engine, decent travel.
    caged, camburg long travel, 50t leafpack (soon to be installed) light rack over cab, 5pt harnesses etc

    dam how big is she?


    just kidding haha:)


    x2 on picking up a wire wheel!
     
  8. Jul 8, 2011 at 2:20 PM
    #8
    Kraut

    Kraut [OP] Member

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    She's small but she's REALLY fiesty :rolleyes:
     
  9. Jul 14, 2011 at 8:08 AM
    #9
    el dudarino

    el dudarino Well-Known Member

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    lol

    We have a local place that does headstones and they sand blast whatever you bring them. Usually $40 for stuff that will keep them busy for about 1/2 an hour. Always much easier especially with the inside corners.
     

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