Difference in frame rears (TRD vs Base 4x4?) HITCH MOUNTING

Pulled a frame mounted class III hitch from my 2000 Pre-Runner TRD to put on my "new" 2002 4x4 base and there are no mounting points that line up.

Were the frames different (at least in the rear) from TRDs and base 4x4s?

All the new hitches I see mount in line with the bumper - this one (see picture) had nothing to do with the bumper - I assumed it was a tow package / dealer installed option.

I searched around and nobody sells this style new - its all the bumper mount.

Does this make sense to anyone? Has anyone else run into this?

 

I used to install hitches for a couple years and only installed the hitch that fits in with the bumper. There were some hitches like say for a crown vic that you would have to drill holes in the frame for the hitch. So if that hitch lines up with the frame you would have to make the holes in the frame.

 

For any given year, I'm almost certain the frames are the same. But there are some differences between the pre-2001 and the 2001-2004 models, so that might be waht you're seeing there. You might just need to drill some new holes. Should be fine...

I have a Hidden Hitch, which sits back a few inches from the end of the bumper of my 04. Other brands sit more flush with the bumper.

 

That looks nothing like the factory tow option receiver on my 04.

 

Are your bumper mounting bolts even close to mounting this hitch??

Does this one mount on the inside or outside of the frame ??

What are you planning to tow??

All receiver hitches mount to the frame some use the bumper mounting holes others you drill your own If this hitch did not use the bumper mounting holes the holes were drilled when it was installed

If you want this hitch break out the drill .

One does what one can to make it work or buy the correct one for what you have that uses the bumper mounting holes

 

I've moved my Curt receiver from truck to truck as they came and went (most were without a receiver) starting with a '97 TRD to a '00 to an '03 without any problem. It does not look like that one though.

 

That looks like a Camry hitch.

 

Maybe it was a generic aftermarket. Strange thing though, there was a craigslist ad for the same hitch recently. Guy said it came off his 2000 (same as mine).

On the 2000 pre-runner, I removed and replaced the hitch several times as I worked on the suspension. It bolted up cleanly and appeared to have female nuts welded to the underside of the frame channel - leading me to believe this was the designed mounting point. I suppose those nuts could be rusted to the frame, rather than welded, but I put a fair amount of pressure to break them free.

I saved this hitch when the 2000 was retired because I liked its stoutness. I also liked the ease of removal. It's looking like I will have to get a bumper mount replacement. With all the frame issues, I am reluctant to start drilling holes in my truck now.

One last call out to anyone else who might've had a Tacoma with this style frame hitch.

 

Never having seen a Pre-Runner in person I can only guess the frames are different then the 4x4 trucks

Should be easy to check part numbers between the two different vehicles

Then it is quite easy to weld nuts into a frame.

Good luck

 

Its a Hidden hitch said it fits 1st gens. http://www.autoaccessoriesgarage.co...itch-Trailer-Hitch?set-vehicle=1&autoselect=1

 

Lookie what I found!! Install instructions.

 

THAT'S why I come here! You rock!

Thanks - now I know how to proceed!

 

Thank you I try.

I work from home and spend alot of time at my PC. At weird hours of the night and mornings. Gets boring when at 2 AM.

 

keep in mind with only 4 bolts, that's light duty. The receiver is stronger than the hitch.

 

3/4" carriage bolt hardware all around. It's a stout setup.