I ordered a new Valley Hitch from etrailer.com. Delivery was quick, intallation was easy; everything fit. I also ordered and installed the wiring, wiring converter, and all mounting brackets for the trailer plug. Total cost, including shipping (.99 cents) was just under $200. I highly recommend this company for your hitch. You can also purchase a couple other manufactured hitches.
*** Note to forum members. This photo is not the original posted by Greenlander, but is a substitute to restore the photos no longer available from him. This was done so forum members can still see the installed hitch.
TrailDust
Last edited by TrailDust; 02-17-2009 at 07:13 PM.
Reason: Replacement of photos
Greenlander, any drilling required for the installation? And how long did it take to install the hitch? Thanks.
No drilling required. You just remove the tow hooks and plastic panels underneath and the hitch bolts right on. I had the hitch installed in less than an hour, including removal of above items. You can replace the passenger side plastic cover, but the driver's side will not go back on.
Greenlander, I went to the etrailer website and found 4 hitches that would fit the Highlander. Is there any difference with the Curt and Valley brand. And can you tell me which one (part#) did you purchase. Thanks.,
Greenlander, I went to the etrailer website and found 4 hitches that would fit the Highlander. Is there any difference with the Curt and Valley brand. And can you tell me which one (part#) did you purchase. Thanks.,
V81312 Valley Hitch; 118175 wiring converter; 2753 Ballmount (2 3/4" rise); PC3 Pin and Clip; 18140 No drill mount bracket; 18144 mounting bracket; and 20112 4 pole connector cover.
Total was just under $200. They have a 99cent shipping over $150.
I assume all hitches will fit fine. I used a "Hidden Hitch" on my last vehichle. All wiring can be accessed under left (driver's side) storage panel and/or at the pop out covers near the inside of each taillite.
All the wiring is accessible under the left rear storage box. There is even a rubber grommet at the aft end of that area that I cut a hole in to allow the wiring to the trailer to go through. You will need a wiring converter ( www.etrailer.com ) and then locate the wires. Pretty good instructions come with the converter.
I purchased the factory wiring harness, part # PT219-48871, from toyotapart.com for $105.83. This harness plugs into the factory tow prep package harness in the back of the vehicle and also includes a converter box that plugs in under the dash on the drivers' side. The whole installation process takes about 30 minutes. The toughest part was popping off the number two interior panel in the cargo area. I didn't want to break the plastic snaps. I used a 1" wide putty knife covered with electrical tape for prying up the panel to release the plastic snaps. Other than that it was a breeze. This wiring harness includes everything you need an even has plastic snaps to snap into the factory hitch. The installation instructions can also be found on this board. I did not go with the factory hitch and instead purchased a Valley from etrailer.com.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
ToyotaNation.com is an independent Toyota/Lexus enthusiast website. ToyotaNation.com is not sponsored by or in any way affiliated with Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. The Toyota, Lexus and Scion names and logos are trademarks owned by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
Nice photo! ???
Linear Mode
