Running a hitch through a steel bumper?

I was wondering if you could run a hitch through a steel bumper (Hooke road brand) on a 2018 Tacoma…also, is the hitch connected to the factory bumper?

 

Not familiar with that brand but a quick Google search on the product shows it works with the original receiver hitch. The hitch is separate from the factory plastic bumper.

G4204 2016-2021 Toyota Tacoma Gen 3 HR Rear Bumper w/License Plate Bracket

Fit for 2016-2021 Toyota Tacoma 3rd Gen Models
Bumper Weight: About 53 lbs
Heavy Duty 11-Gauge(1/8 Inch) Maximum Steel Construction
Textured Black Powder Coat Finish
One-Piece, Fully-Welded Structure
Works with Factory Receiver Hitches
Compatible with Factory Back-Up Sensors. Pre-Drilled Holes for Sensors to Fit Properly. Professional Installation Is Recommended
License Plate Mounting Bracket Included; Pre-Formed Cut-Outs to Accommodate Factory License Plate Lights
Rear Bumper Provides Adequate Front-End Protection
Integrated Corner Side Steps for Convenient Truck Bed Access
Premium E-Coating Process for 5-Year Corrosion Protection under Normal Use
Simple Bolt-On Installation w/Detailed Instruction; No Cutting Required to Install
2 Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty & Lifetime Customer Support

 

Welcome to TW

 

Yes, I've seen several high clearance bumpers used with an integrated hitch, usually where the license plate currently sits. You fold the license plate down to access the hitch. Then you cut the OEM hitch off

 

Do you have to cut the OEM hitch off or is it bolt on?

 

OP, I’m pretty sure the OEM bumper and hitch are separate. To be sure, there are high clearance bumper install videos on YouTube. I plan to install a high clearance rear bumper with a hidden hitch receiver in the not too distant future. It improves the rear approach angle by a fair amount.

 

Honestly I haven't gotten down and looked, but generally hitches are welded on

 

I’ve assumed it’s bolted on, but I have not looked myself either.

 

Definitely bolted on. Definitely can be used with aftermarket rear bumpers if they're designed for it. Definitely good to buy that bumper but I can't attest to the brand and quality.

 

Factory, at least on my 17 are welded to the frame

 

Factory hitches are bolted on. Most of the non-hc bumpers just replace the stock bumper, and retain the stock hitch. Most high clearence bumpers get rid of the stock hitch.
My Coastal hc has a hitch recessed into it. Only downfall is you need a huge drop hitch, but not too big of a problem.
Here you can see the hitch slot above the piece of wood, its probably 4-5" higher than stock

Back to your original question, the Hooke bumper bolts on and leaves your stock hitch.

 

100% not true unless you have some kind of aftermarket deal. OEM Toyota tow package hitches bolt to the frame.

imagine what a headache it would be at the factory if they had different frames for hitch and no hitch?

 

funny how that picture still looks safer than a high-lift jack

 

It's funny cause it's true

 

Can confirm factory hitch is bolt on. Here's a BAMF HC rear bumper with the hitch behind the plate.

 

I stand corrected

 

In my 30 years of experience, the only receiver hitches that I have seen that were welded on, were the ones that broke off. All other hitches were bolted on.