Tow Hitch Removal

[skeeterpaul]

Hi Guys, I have a 2002 4Runner with a factory tow hitch that needs to be removed. Looks like the previous owner tried to grind the bolts off now it needs new bolts. I figured I would sand blast and paint it while I'm taking the bolts out. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Paul

 

[THEREALTOR1]

Hi Guys, I have a 2002 4Runner with a factory tow hitch that needs to be removed. Looks like the previous owner tried to grind the bolts off now it needs new bolts. I figured I would sand blast and paint it while I'm taking the bolts out. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Paul

Get yourself some jackstands or something to help hold it in place while your dropping bolts/nuts, unless you got someone else thats gonna be under there with you. Its not light by any means, but you can do it by yourself just think ahead.

 

[skeeterpaul]

Hitch

Thanks

 

[Gerdo]

The PO may have tried to get it off but couldn't.

You may not want to remove it if you are just going to put it back on.
The rear most 2 bolts on each side have nuts welded into the frame. If you cut or break off those bolts, you will need to fix them somehow. The front 2 on each side are nuts on a strap. If you cut those off, you will need to buy some new nuts on the strap setups.

 

[DirtDawg]

Or you could just torch it off like me! :flamethrwoer2: