Tow Hitch question

S

supercliff

New member
Tow Hitch question (updated with Pics)

Hello Everyone,

I search high and low and I can't seem to find the answer to this problem.

I'm going to get a motorcycle hitch carrier to haul a 420 pound bike (carrier weighs 90 pounds). I'll be just over the 500 pound limit (or maybe just at 500 if I lighten the bike up). I have a V6 2004 Sport4x4.

I already bought the Air Lift 1000 (which I'll be installing next week) to help with the balance.

I'm worried that I'll either exceed the tongue weight or be too close for comfort. I know toyota has all kinds of design margin, but I heard that the V8 has a tongue weight of 750 so I want to install that tow hitch into my car.

My question is: does anyone know the part number and where to get it online? The only p/n I can find on the forum is: PT228-89440 , but I can't seem to find that part listed anywhere online. - NM this, i found the part online, but no specs on the product. The dealer seems at a loss to supply any details...

Has anyone switched out their hitches? Also, does anyone know the torque settings when you install the new hitch? Thanks!
 
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A bit of a change from my original question.

The stock tow hitch on my 04 v6 runner is held on with 6 bolts. It this what is likely to fail if I exceed the 500 pound max tongue weight? Or is it the that the rear cross member may bend?

I have a friend with a welder and I plan to weld the hitch to the frame. I'm wondering if this will be enough to increase my tongue weight or if I should also weld in some additional support bars to the side frames.
 
It's more than just welding on some bracing... Since the Weight Distributing hitch attaches to the frame rails as well, there is no chance that the hitch or the rear member will twist under heavy loads. The V8 hitch is a "simple" bolt on change and you get the ability to tow up to 6700 lbs with the V6. Better to get the distributing hitch from your dealer than try to weld a bandaid to the existing one.
 
Thanks for the info.

In my case I'm not sure if I need to get the other hitch though. I only need more tongue weight to carry a motorcycle on the hitch, not for actually towing.

However, to prevent twisting, I can weld braces from the existing hitch to the side frames. I would imagine that welding some 2" box tubing from, the side rails to the stock hitch should give me the same stability as the V8 bolt on.

Do you think this would work for me? I basically need to upgrade for the few times a year I plan to go to the track
 
Is there an aftermarket hitch for the V8? Or do you have to order one from the dealer? After all of my searching the only thing I can find is the V6 hitch.
 
my understanding from another post on this forum is that the P/N for the V8 Tow hitch rated to 750 tongue weight with 7500 pound towing is: PT228-89440

I can find the part online and the dealer lists this part too. However, when I asked the dealer to confirm the specs for this p/n he was at a total loss. I think it retails for like 325ish. The only hitch he could find on a "search" was also the v6 tow hitch which was like 190ish? (he confirmed this part was held on with 6 bolts which it is). The description in the catalog was really weird though. It wasn't a tow hitch.....

Anyway, I'll try to do more research to see if I can find more data. In the end, I've decided to weld on additional support to the v6 factory hitch. I believe it will prevent to types of failures for me when I carry my motorcycle on the hitch.

1. If I exceed the max tongue weight, I won't shear off the 6 bolt holding the hitch on since I'll weld all around the hitch.

2. I think even with a welded hitch that by exceeding the max tongue weight I might either bend the cross member by twisting it down or the hitch may still bend side to side. To prevent this I'll weld a 2x2 steel box tube across to the side frame rails. This will prevent twisting down and to the side.

3. Worse comes to worse if by exceeding (or staying at the max of 500 pounds) for a long time does cause a problem, the problem will occur as a bending of the steel box tube. Since steel bends at failure and doesn't snap, I should see a problem before it fails. I can always add additional supports as needed.

From what I've seen of the weight distrubution type hitches, they are basically regular hitches with a steel tube running to the sides. Since a good buddy is a very good welder I figure I'll be "making" my own weight distribution hitch.

I'll post up some pics of the before and after to let you all know how it turns out.
 
Sorry it's been a while, but I finally got around to this:

1. I upgraded the stock v6 trailer hitch to the one used on the v8 hitch (228 bucks for the hitch + 33 bucks for the center bracket and installed myself)
2. Installed the air lift 1000 (78 bucks, installed myself)
3. Joe Hauler Moto Hitch (300 bucks)

imgp5145wh9.jpg


imgp5119bt5.jpg


imgp5144bb3.jpg


Some pictures of me at the track:
ht4u4414ij9.jpg


ht4u2238zd6.jpg
 
I was going to ask about this very subject here soon. I have a dirtbike that I haul around on bike carrier just like the one in this topic. I have a 05 Sport V6. So will I need to make the same upgrades as pmdata did, or will the hitch handle this weight?
 
pmdata said:
Awesome setup and great bike. Track days or club racing?
Click to expand...

Track Days only for me. My buddy who went with me races in the AFM though. I don't think I'd ever really race (wife would kill me if the bike didn't).
 
cwest94 said:
I was going to ask about this very subject here soon. I have a dirtbike that I haul around on bike carrier just like the one in this topic. I have a 05 Sport V6. So will I need to make the same upgrades as pmdata did, or will the hitch handle this weight?
Click to expand...

You won't need to upgrade your hitch if you plan to carry a dirt bike. My bike weighs around 420 lbs. The carrier weighs about 80 pounds. Since the tongue weight max is 500 pounds this was too close. (you need to consider that tongue weight is calculated at the hitch ball, but a moto will hang 2-3 feet beyond that and create a significant amount of torque).

However, your bike weighs 200-300 pounds less and a dirt bike carrier is also lighter. You'll be fine.

You may want to consider adding an air lift 1000 kit since it's less than 80 bucks including shipping and easy to install. it's probably not absolutely required, but it should smooth out your ride with the bike (or trailering).
 
Supercliff,

Looks like the photos were taken in Rancho Bernardo, CA???

Are you from that area? I lived there a number of years ago. Nice place, nice people.

Great looking setup for your bike.
 
damengr said:
Supercliff,

Looks like the photos were taken in Rancho Bernardo, CA???

Are you from that area? I lived there a number of years ago. Nice place, nice people.

Great looking setup for your bike.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the compliments :)

Actually no, these pictures were taken at Thunderhill (Willow, CA).

Great track there. I've been there like 6 times. I'm currently trying to work out my schedule to I can do track days at Laguna Seca and Infineon.
 
supercliff said:
You won't need to upgrade your hitch if you plan to carry a dirt bike. My bike weighs around 420 lbs. The carrier weighs about 80 pounds. Since the tongue weight max is 500 pounds this was too close. (you need to consider that tongue weight is calculated at the hitch ball, but a moto will hang 2-3 feet beyond that and create a significant amount of torque).

However, your bike weighs 200-300 pounds less and a dirt bike carrier is also lighter. You'll be fine.

You may want to consider adding an air lift 1000 kit since it's less than 80 bucks including shipping and easy to install. it's probably not absolutely required, but it should smooth out your ride with the bike (or trailering).
Click to expand...

Why thank you sir, that was some very helpful information. I have a MotoTote that comes in between 60 to 80lbs, my dirtbike comes in at 217lbs, so you think I'll be safe then?

I cant wait till spring time to start riding again, I never got to take my dirtbike out this year due to not have any free time. :(
 
supercliff said:
Sorry it's been a while, but I finally got around to this:

1. I upgraded the stock v6 trailer hitch to the one used on the v8 hitch (228 bucks for the hitch + 33 bucks for the center bracket and installed myself)
2. Installed the air lift 1000 (78 bucks, installed myself)
3. Joe Hauler Moto Hitch (300 bucks)
Click to expand...
Hi Supercliff,

Hopefully you will read this since its been a while. I am trying to do the same upgrade to my hitch. I have a V6 Sport and I want to upgrade to the hitch from the V8. However, I have a couple of questions about one of the items that you installed. You stated that you purchased the hitch for $228 and a center bracket for $33.

1. What exactly is that center bracket for?
2. Where does it go? (any pics would help)
3. Do you happen to have the part number for it? I know that part number for the hitch is PT228-89440, but do you have the part number of the bracket?

I thought that just swapping the hitch out would be sufficient. I wasn't aware that another bracket was necessary.

Also, did the hitch come with all of the required mounting hardware (bolts, etc) or did you have to purchase that separately?

Any help / guidance that you could provide would be extremely helpful. Actually, just by providing the part number of the hitch itself has already saved me a bunch of time! Thanks for providing that!

Thank you in advance for your time...I really appreciate it!
 
1. What exactly is that center bracket for?
2. Where does it go? (any pics would help)

Answer: I'll answer 1 and 2 at the same time. The center bracket is held in place by 6 bolts which fit EXACTLY where the stock V6 hitch goes. Once installed, there are 4 bolts which hold the new hitch to this center bracket. Your new hitch will have a total of 3 points of contact. It will have 3 bolts on the left, 3 bolts on the right, and 4 bolts on the center. This is what allows you to have a MUCH greater tongue weight. In fact, I personally think the new weight is MUCH higher than "750 lbs" as it states in the US manuals. The Hitch itself states 1K lbs! You'll want to add the airlift 1000 bags if you have this much weight. I noticed that the front of the car is lighter and tracks less well when I have my bike on the back.

3. Do you happen to have the part number for it? I know that part number for the hitch is PT228-89440, but do you have the part number of the bracket?

Answer:
4RUNNER TOW HITCH P/N: PT228-89440 1 $241.50 $241.50
CENTER ATTACHMENT BR P/N: 08925-35850 1 $34.30 $34.30
(toyotapart.com)

I thought that just swapping the hitch out would be sufficient. I wasn't aware that another bracket was necessary.

Answer: I thought so at first also, but once I saw the design, I can see why the center bracket is needed.

Also, did the hitch come with all of the required mounting hardware (bolts, etc) or did you have to purchase that separately?

Answer: Yes and no. It came with bolts, but you'll also need the original bolts from the v6 hitch. (you don't need to buy more, but if you sell your v6 hitch, that person will need to buy their own bolts).

Any help / guidance that you could provide would be extremely helpful. Actually, just by providing the part number of the hitch itself has already saved me a bunch of time! Thanks for providing that!

Answer: Mine did not come with any manual for installation, but I'm good with cars so it was easy for me. If you are not, you should fine a manual somewhere. Here are some bits of advice:

1. REMOVE THE REAR BUMPER. I only took 1/2 of mine off, but I should have not been so lazy and took it all off. It would have saved me time. To do so, you'll need to remove your mud flaps and remove some plastic screw attachments in the wheel well. Before you start pulling, there is one more "hidden" screw that you need to remove by pulling back a little from the wheel well. You can kinda tell where it is attached by pulling. Then you need to remove 4 (I think) bolts on the bottom center area and 4 (I think) bolts on the top (when you open the lift gate you can see it.

2. You'll need a LARGE breaker bar. Don't use a tiny socket for this. Those bolts are in there TIGHT. Also, make sure you use lock tight and a torque wrench when you put the new ones in.

3. Mount the center bracket first.

4. Then remove the stock 7pin hitch plug (Kit comes with a new mounting location. Once you unbolt it, it has a quick disconnect on the other end which you can remove. It makes your life easier if you do this.

5. I did this on my own but if you have a friend it's MUCH easier to install because it's HEAVY and hard to align bolts on your own.

6. If my memory serves me right, The left and right are held on by 3 bolts, 2 big ones and one little one. You can use the little ones to align everything up before you tighten everythign down.

7. Life is EASY if you have an impact wrench. It helps a lot for pulling out old "slightly rusty" bolts. I had a few that were tough to get out because I go up to Tahoe a lot and the salt/grime really rusted a few bolts on.

It took my about 1 hour on my own to do. But I'm good at taking cars apart and I have all the needed tools. It might take you longer, but it's something anyone can do on their own given enough time. (Oh i'm sure I forgot all kinds of little steps and tricks, I just listed the things I wish I did better or stuck in my mind).

I didn't take any pictures sorry. As you install if you run into problems just shoot me an email: [email protected]. I have a blackberry and i check my email all the time so I can give you advice. You can also call me. I can email you my phone number.
 
Hey Cliff,

Wow...I just noticed how fast you replied! Thanks!

I really appreciate the detailed response. I will definitely send you my contact info.

I am pretty good with cars (been restoring a 69 Mustang for about 3 years now!!!!! will it ever end??!!) but I just like to get as much info and tips about a project as possible before I actually do it.

Actually, that car is the reason for the hitch upgrade. I need to transport it in an eclosed trailer and I will be awfully close to the 5000 lb limit of the V6 hitch.

I have to check with a local Toyota dealer to see if they can give me a better deal than toyotapart.com. The dealer has treated me right in the past. I will let you know how that goes.

During the install, I will try to take as many pics as possible. Maybe it can be made into a sticky or a how-to topic or something to help out others.

Thanks again for the info. I will post again as soon as I have an update.
 
HardCharger said:
Hey Cliff,

Wow...I just noticed how fast you replied! Thanks!

I really appreciate the detailed response. I will definitely send you my contact info.

I am pretty good with cars (been restoring a 69 Mustang for about 3 years now!!!!! will it ever end??!!) but I just like to get as much info and tips about a project as possible before I actually do it.

Actually, that car is the reason for the hitch upgrade. I need to transport it in an eclosed trailer and I will be awfully close to the 5000 lb limit of the V6 hitch.

I have to check with a local Toyota dealer to see if they can give me a better deal than toyotapart.com. The dealer has treated me right in the past. I will let you know how that goes.

During the install, I will try to take as many pics as possible. Maybe it can be made into a sticky or a how-to topic or something to help out others.

Thanks again for the info. I will post again as soon as I have an update.
Click to expand...

Well, if you are close but not past the 5K limit I'm sure you would be fine with the stock hitch since to rate it at 5K, they must have a safety margin. (but better safe than sorry and it's always fun to work on cars)

My local dealer would not come close to the online pricing, but I didn't expect them to. Hopefully you have a nicer dealer.
 
supercliff said:
Sorry it's been a while, but I finally got around to this:

1. I upgraded the stock v6 trailer hitch to the one used on the v8 hitch (228 bucks for the hitch + 33 bucks for the center bracket and installed myself)
2. Installed the air lift 1000 (78 bucks, installed myself)
3. Joe Hauler Moto Hitch (300 bucks)
Click to expand...
Man...I just found out that I can't install the Air Lift 1000 kit in my 4Runner. I have a 4x2 and according to the product selector on the Air Lift website, they do not make a kit for my truck.

Cliff, your truck must be a 4x4 right? I can barely see the badging in your photos, but I think I see a 4x4 after the Sport Edition badging.

I am going to call their tech support line tomorrow to confirm.

I'm not sure how else to level out the suspension in case they don't make a kit for a 4x2. Any ideas?
 
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