Welding Safety Chain Loops to Hitch/Receiver

TB_T4R · 2021-02-25T18:11:04+00:00

I bought my 2015 SR5 Premium used and the trailer safety chain loops attached to the rear hitch/receiver were rusted/broken off when I bought it (see photo below). Is it possible to weld on a new safety chain loop (like this one: Raw Steel Weld-On Safety Chain Loop (10,000 lbs. Capacity) SKU #49950 for $4.33 by CURT Manufacturing) to the hitch plate while it is still mounted to the frame? I don't have any welding knowledge, but I could imagine welding near a plastic bumper could be challenging and possibly damaging. It might also have to be welded upside down. A professional welder would do the work. I am trying to avoid taking off the rear bumper cover to remove the hitch plate. If I was forced to go that route, I would probably just order a new hitch plate to replace the current one (Toyota PN: 51909-35011). If anyone has any alternative methods or ideas for attaching trailer safety chains to something other than the loops on the hitch, please let me know. Thanks in advance!

Thread starter TB_T4R
Start date Feb 25, 2021

Tom_with_a_Dream

New member

Mar 17, 2025

Flatbed tow truck just broke my chain loop - Shockingly little force

Just had my '13 4R receiver chain hook fail as a flatbed tow truck was cinching the truck down (broke well before it pulled tight) after pulling it up the bed (in neutral, flat road surface).

I cannot believe how little force was needed to peel the weld off the end of the loop. And I cannot believe how little surface was actually welded now that you can see the interface.