Factory Tow hitch (08 Highlander) picture wanted

Harley0711
11-28-2007, 10:48 PM
Is there a owner here with a Factory Tow Hitch that can take a picture of the rear - showing what is visable and how the bottom of the bumper looks - and post that picture here for us to see. I went to two majoy Toyota Dealers today looking for this - first dealer has not seen one yet... other had a service tech come out and explain to me that the bottom of the rear bumper (black part) needs to be exchanged for one that has a cut out for the reciever????

PLamarine
11-29-2007, 06:15 AM
Here you go:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/Plamar/001-1.jpg

summerwind
11-29-2007, 08:20 AM
You can also have the black fascia painted to match your HL before you install it by a body shop if you want to go to the expense.

You need to have a body shop do it as they add a flex component to the paint.

The factory hitch has a nice clean look if you can convince yourself to spend the extra money...

Harley0711
11-29-2007, 10:22 AM
Here you go:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/Plamar/001-1.jpg

Thanks for taking the time to post the picture - I know the hitch is about $200 more than a after market - any idea what Toyota is charging for the black bumper part with the cut out?? - I guess a person could just cut theirs - or maybe this is what Toyota is doing???

summerwind
11-29-2007, 11:41 AM
any idea what Toyota is charging for the black bumper part with the cut out?? - I guess a person could just cut theirs - or maybe this is what Toyota is doing???

Don't understand your question. If you do not go with the Toyota hitch you do not need the fascia with the cut out as after market hitches fit below the bumper.

If you go with the Toyota hitch (order after you get your HL) the fascia comes with the hitch.

Harley0711
11-29-2007, 02:15 PM
Don't understand your question. If you do not go with the Toyota hitch you do not need the fascia with the cut out as after market hitches fit below the bumper.

If you go with the Toyota hitch (order after you get your HL) the fascia comes with the hitch.


Sorry, I do undertand the aftermarket goes below the fascia... I have been told the new fascia comes with the Toyota hitch... I am into this SUV so much, I am getting a little $$$ tired... I am leaning towards the aftermarket - it really does not look bad to me and $200 bucks is just that - $200.

Bandito
11-29-2007, 06:40 PM
Thanks for the pic PL. It does look extra snazzy! However, the lower fascia on my HLH is silver, so I guess I'll have to have it painted if I want to maintain the look. <Sigh>

pch316
11-29-2007, 11:40 PM
Harly, did you order the hitch online or directly from the dealer? I was thinking about installing one myself. How much did the hitch cost and was it difficult to install yourself? Thx.

wsuduc
12-02-2007, 09:43 PM
Thanks for posting that pic. It pretty much sums it up in my mind. I think I am going to go with the factory hitch. Yes it is $200 more, however I like the clean install look.

I wouldn't doubt it if they just cut the fascia. I looked under my HL with factory installed running boards and they just cut all the plastic cover pieces under there to install it. Kinda cheesy, but what are you going to do.

takahashi
12-02-2007, 10:07 PM
For your interest, that is what the Australian Kluger (Highlander) tow bar look.

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l230/taka_rx8/New%20Kluger/09112007547.jpg

summerwind
12-03-2007, 07:08 AM
I wouldn't doubt it if they just cut the fascia. I looked under my HL with factory installed running boards and they just cut all the plastic cover pieces under there to install it. Kinda cheesy, but what are you going to do.

You get a new fascia with the Toyota hitch. It is black and if you have a Sport or Limited you may want to have it painted to color match the original fascia. Click on link below

Toyota Hitch instructions (http://sumbiz03.home.comcast.net/TowHitch.pdf)

adavid
12-03-2007, 11:13 AM
PLamarine-
With the Factory Tow Hitch, how much does the hitch stick out beyond the bumper w/o the reciever installed?

I just received the Draw Tite hitch, which I am going to install myself. I can see that it will stick out about 4". The hitch is v-shaped to get around the spare tire, so it sticks out like that. Not ideal for me, as I would rather have it flush...which would be cleaner, and I wouldn't have to worry about banging into it, specifically in the garage, where I have a tight fit.

I assume the factory hitch has this same issue getting around the spare, but wanted to check. I am coming from a Nissan Murano, where I also installed a Draw Tite hitch, and did not have this issue at all.

Thanks,
Andy

Speedy001
12-05-2007, 11:00 AM
There is a You Tube Video on hitch install for 08' Highlander, it will show how to install Valley/Drawtite hitch & how it looks after install. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLrZUN1h80Y

Harley0711
12-05-2007, 11:33 AM
The question about how much the factory and after market hitch (without reciever) sticks out - I will agree that the aftermarket will most likley stick out a little futher... the OEM goes behide the facia - this is why it has to be cut - it will hide a little easier - the aftermarket 'may' be a little more of a bump hazard - However, right now, I am just about $$$$$$ out and I still have body side molding, mud flaps and rubber rear cargo mat to go.. So, if I can save at least $200 on the hitch - This is what I will do and that is installing it my self - If I have Toyota install the factory hitch - more $$$$$, my dealer included the needed harness after I bitched about them saying it was included - it is NOT.... anyway,,, they treated me nice... picked up the HL Limited last night... Very nice SUV, much bigger than the Avalon, lol... cleaning the windshield is more work for the wife and washing/waxing will keep her busy...And she loves to wax - or at least how the car looks afterwards... step ladders/stools here we come....

My hitch will be here in a few days,,, I will post pictures of it installed looking DOWN from above, showing just how much does stick out.. Would like to see a pic of the OEM from this angle.... I will have the wife hold a yard stick against the bumper / next to the hitch... this should answer all questions...

mdadson
12-05-2007, 08:35 PM
My dealer was not offering any price break on the factory hitch $450 or the wiring harness $120 if you have the tow prep package, plus they wanted $285 for installation. I purchased the Valley hitch from etrailer.com $144.95 +.99 for shipping and the factory wiring harness from toyotapart.com for $105.83 thanks to reviewing other members posts and surfing the web. You can find the factory hitch online for around $375, but I did not check on shipping costs.
The hitch took about 45 minutes to install by myself and the wiring harness about 30 minutes. I would estimate that the Valley hitch only sticks out past the plane of the rear bumper about an inch. So the possibility of hitting your leg on it is very limited.
The factory hitch definitely looks cleaner more integrated in my opinion, but not enough for me to justify the extra cost.

Harley0711
12-05-2007, 09:44 PM
My dealer was not offering any price break on the factory hitch $450 or the wiring harness $120 if you have the tow prep package, plus they wanted $285 for installation. I purchased the Valley hitch from etrailer.com $144.95 +.99 for shipping and the factory wiring harness from toyotapart.com for $105.83 thanks to reviewing other members posts and surfing the web. You can find the factory hitch online for around $375, but I did not check on shipping costs.
The hitch took about 45 minutes to install by myself and the wiring harness about 30 minutes. I would estimate that the Valley hitch only sticks out past the plane of the rear bumper about an inch. So the possibility of hitting your leg on it is very limited.
The factory hitch definitely looks cleaner more integrated in my opinion, but not enough for me to justify the extra cost.


I could not agree more. My dealer did include the harness after my bitching/whining (lol) - My Hitch is on the way and should be here by Monday. Thanks for the info on how much it sticks out. Enjoy...

pch316
12-09-2007, 10:44 AM
My dealer was not offering any price break on the factory hitch $450 or the wiring harness $120 if you have the tow prep package, plus they wanted $285 for installation. I purchased the Valley hitch from etrailer.com $144.95 +.99 for shipping and the factory wiring harness from toyotapart.com for $105.83 thanks to reviewing other members posts and surfing the web. You can find the factory hitch online for around $375, but I did not check on shipping costs.
The hitch took about 45 minutes to install by myself and the wiring harness about 30 minutes. I would estimate that the Valley hitch only sticks out past the plane of the rear bumper about an inch. So the possibility of hitting your leg on it is very limited.
The factory hitch definitely looks cleaner more integrated in my opinion, but not enough for me to justify the extra cost.

mdadson, I was thinking about purchasing the factory hitch. Can you tell me which website did you go to. Thanks.

mdadson
12-09-2007, 11:00 AM
Sorry, I didn't go with the factory hitch and instead purchased a Valley hitch from etrailer.com for $144.95 + .99 for shipping. However, I did search for a factory hitch and the lowest price I could find at the time was at http://toyotapartsdelivered.com/ for around $375. I have no idea what the shipping would be. You can use their part number search option and search on PT228-69080. Good luck with your search which every way decide to go.

pch316
12-09-2007, 12:19 PM
Sorry, I didn't go with the factory hitch and instead purchased a Valley hitch from etrailer.com for $144.95 + .99 for shipping. However, I did search for a factory hitch and the lowest price I could find at the time was at http://toyotapartsdelivered.com/ for around $375. I have no idea what the shipping would be. You can use their part number search option and search on PT228-69080. Good luck with your search which every way decide to go.

Thank you for the website. I will probably go with the factory hitch. It has a cleaner look.

Harley0711
12-09-2007, 03:54 PM
Just installed the "Etrailer" Draw-tite hitch - could not have been easier and I did it by myself... actually spent more time removing the plastic covers and tow hooks... Super easy install - Yes it does show a little more than the factory but I still need to buy Body side molding, rubber cargo mat and mud flaps - SO, the $200+ savings on the hitch will come in handy... Right now I see the hitch but in 6 months it will just be part of the back and no big deal.. Only concern the wife had was the possilbe bump hazard by sticking out - non issue...

adavid
12-09-2007, 08:52 PM
I installed the Draw-Tite hitch yesterday along with the factory wiring harness. It was an easy install for the most part. For the wiring, it was difficult to get one of the rear boards out, but in the end I was able to do it without removing that.

I was concerned with hitch sticking out. It ended up about 1.5" out past the vertical plane of the bumper. It looks like it is sticking out more than it actually is...due to the shape of the bumper. I would have liked it not to be sticking out like this, but it doesn't seem like much of a bump hazard.

Other than that I ended up taking off the chrome exhaust tip (I have a Sport). The hitch fit around it, but the tip was resting on the hitch, and I thought that may cause vibration.

Before installing the hitch, I removed the Draw-Tite and Etrailer stickers. Those seem to come off over time, and they just draw attention to the hitch. I then cleaned off the hitch with acetone, and primed all of the areas where the paint was scratched or chipped. The hitches are not packaged well for shipping. I finished up with 2 coats of Rustoleum gloss black. I did this a few years back with another hitch, and it held up quite well.

So, here are pictures of the final product.


http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg207/adavid123/IMG_2465Small.jpg
http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg207/adavid123/IMG_2472Small.jpg
http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg207/adavid123/IMG_2471Small.jpg

Andy

Harley0711
12-09-2007, 09:05 PM
I agree about the "stickers" on the hitch - made it Jump out at ya... took off booth - my paint was fine -

DenverBrian
12-09-2007, 11:20 PM
I installed the Draw-Tite hitch yesterday along with the factory wiring harness...I ended up taking off the chrome exhaust tip (I have a Sport). The hitch fit around it, but the tip was resting on the hitch, and I thought that may cause vibration. Just a note that the Valley hitch runs the hitch above the exhaust instead of below, as with the Draw-Tite. This means there's no potential vibration issue with the chrome exhaust tip, since there's nothing below the tip for it to rest on.

PLamarine
12-10-2007, 05:47 AM
Too bad about the chrome tip having to come off...that is a really nice touch on the Sport.

PLamarine
12-12-2007, 03:36 PM
I was concerned with hitch sticking out. It ended up about 1.5" out past the vertical plane of the bumper. It looks like it is sticking out more than it actually is...due to the shape of the bumper. I would have liked it not to be sticking out like this, but it doesn't seem like much of a bump hazard.



Well, I measured my factory hitch and it "sticks out" 1/4" from the plastic fascia, 1/2" with the rubber "Toyota" hitch insert installed. The fascia on the factory hitch is shaped to encase the hitch, so the fascia itself actually sticks out from the upper bumper, but there is no hitch sticking out, if that makes sense.

adavid
12-12-2007, 05:17 PM
Well, I measured my factory hitch and it "sticks out" 1/4" from the plastic fascia, 1/2" with the rubber "Toyota" hitch insert installed. The fascia on the factory hitch is shaped to encase the hitch, so the fascia itself actually sticks out from the upper bumper, but there is no hitch sticking out, if that makes sense.

Thanks. Now I see what you mean with the lower fascia sticking out. So, if the lower fascia were removed, the Factory hitch would probably stick out an inch from the upper bumper, right?

I spoke with Etrailer and they told be that they spoke to Draw-Tite, and that the factory hitch has the same issue "sticking out" as the Draw-Tite does. From what you say, it sounds like the issue is the same (getting around the spare tire), though the factory hitch wraps the hitch with a new fascia, which eliminates the bump hazard.

I wonder if the Valley Hitch has the same issue.

Andy

PLamarine
12-12-2007, 06:13 PM
From what you say, it sounds like the issue is the same (getting around the spare tire), though the factory hitch wraps the hitch with a new fascia, which eliminates the bump hazard.
Andy

Exactly, I am sure under the fascia is the metal bar of the hitch assembly. The fascia does make it bump proof, and gives it a nice integrated look. Hey, you saved some money and got the same capability as the factory hitch...I got mine as a factory option because they actually had one on the lot, and I looked all over for one...this was the only one I saw with it...there are not many available from what I can tell.

Harley0711
12-19-2007, 11:12 PM
installed the Toyota harness today after a much disapointing day at the Dealer - they said they would install it, so why not... After it sat untouched for two hours and then being told it was a 2.5 hour job and they would need it all day (had an app and was told at 0900 it would be done in 1.5 hours) I had them give me the part and I left pissed... Went home, had lunch, cooled down and read through the inst and installed it my self in under 1 hour and I was taking my time...

This is a super easy plug and play install... should have Never allowed the dealer to try and install, not worth the upset feelings and time involved (dealer is 22 miles away).

Thanks to "mdadson" for his help and guidance..

nflchiefs
01-08-2008, 09:20 PM
Hey what do you guys tow with your new highlander? I'm getting ready to install the factory hitch myself and looking forward to seeing how it pulls my 18 foot crownline boat this spring!:)


Just curious of the loads your hauling!

mdadson
01-08-2008, 09:36 PM
Nothing fancy on my end. I just have an 8' foot utility trailer that I have had for years. I use it for all types of hauling for my home improvement projects from building materials to landscape materials. Currently I am finishing my basement, so I have brought home 2x4's, 2x6's, insulation, drywall, trim, you name it. I would rather hook up my trailer than put mulch, shurbs and pinestraw in the back and have to protect the carpets and clean it out. I will say the Highlander tows it much better than Chrysler Town & Country it replaced.

nflchiefs
01-09-2008, 04:46 PM
If anyone pulls a heavy load or a boat with there new 08 Highlander tells us how she does??

newsrv
01-11-2008, 08:03 PM
If you can wait a few months, I'll give you an answer. I plan on getting a Casita travel trailer (www.casitatraveltrailers.com (http://www.casitatraveltrailers.com)) this spring. It weights about 2,400 pounds dry. Main problem is where to mount the electronic brake control unit. Most people mount it below the dash next to the steering column. But this will interfere with the driver's knee airbag. If anyone has come across this problem, I would appreciate how you mounted the control unit. Also looking for a good buy on the Toyota hitch and converter. So far, http://toyotapartsdelivered.com/ has the best prices.

nflchiefs
03-10-2008, 07:24 PM
Im planning on buying the factory hitch for my HL. Im thinking about cutting the fascia that is on the vehicle now and not using the black one they supply with the hitch. I have the sport with pearl white so by keeping the same color might just work. Anyone see a problem with this idea?

DenverBrian
03-10-2008, 11:59 PM
Im planning on buying the factory hitch for my HL. Im thinking about cutting the fascia that is on the vehicle now and not using the black one they supply with the hitch. I have the sport with pearl white so by keeping the same color might just work. Anyone see a problem with this idea?As long as connectors/connecting points are the same, it should be a simple matter of being very careful with some tin snips to cut through the plastic fascia. And if you do screw up for any reason, you always have the black one to fall back on.

adavid
03-11-2008, 11:43 AM
Im planning on buying the factory hitch for my HL. Im thinking about cutting the fascia that is on the vehicle now and not using the black one they supply with the hitch. I have the sport with pearl white so by keeping the same color might just work. Anyone see a problem with this idea?
I believe that the black fascia that comes with the Toyota hitch is shaped differently than what comes on the HL. It sticks out more so as to encase the hitch (which needs to go around the spare tire). I am not sure that your plan will work.

summerwind
03-11-2008, 12:09 PM
I believe that the black fascia that comes with the Toyota hitch is shaped differently than what comes on the HL. It sticks out more so as to encase the hitch (which needs to go around the spare tire). I am not sure that your plan will work.

You can also take take the black fascia to any body shop and get it painted to match the color of your HL

BDinVA
10-19-2008, 09:34 AM
After seeing the pictures posted by others, I decided to buy the overpriced Toyota hitch because I really prefer the look of the receiver integrated into the bumper. It also avoids potential issues with the exhaust tip and results in the receiver being higher off the ground so there are no ground clearance issues (like I had on a previous vehicle).

I am not a mechanic (I haven't even changed the oil myself on a vehicle since they started making the oil filters so hard to reach) but I had no problems with the installation. The biggerst problem was the illegible instructions which came with the hitch (bad photocopy - photos/diagrams were too dark to read). The Wiring Harness instructions were missing from my kit. I resolved both issues by printing the PDF version of both sets of instructions I found in this forum (thanks guys).

I decided not to paint the facia because I like the look of the black facia (the vehicle has a black pice of rubber protecting the top of the bumper anyway so I don't think it looks out of place).

The facia does extend out to cover the hich so cutting the origional is not an option as mentioned in a couple posts above.

I've included several angles in the pics below so that you can get a feel for the new profile.
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g257/BMDRKE/20081018_HighlanderHitch_0004.jpg


http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g257/BMDRKE/20081018_HighlanderHitch_0005.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g257/BMDRKE/20081018_HighlanderHitch_0006.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g257/BMDRKE/20081018_HighlanderHitch_0007.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g257/BMDRKE/20081018_HighlanderHitch_0007c.jpg

hksscom
11-17-2008, 12:14 PM
Thanks, BDinVA, for the pics... That helped me decide on the factory one as well :)

jscurtiss
02-19-2009, 11:28 PM
Folks,
after much debate and reading and re-reading of many of these posts (and thanks to all those who have included pics!!!) I think the factory hitch / wiring assembly is the best route.
It seems to keep the hitch from protruding and has the cleanest overall install and look (in my opinion).

That being said, where is the best place to pick one of these up?
I have not yet consulted my local toyota dealer(s), but I have my doubts they're going to be cheap or reasonable and I have no problem lying on my back and doing this in my garage.

Any help or insight would be appriciated.

JC

newsrv
02-20-2009, 09:59 PM
jscurtiss, I got my hitch and wiring harness from a Dallas dealer, Cowboy Toyota and paid exactly $500 delivered to Washington State. Good luck!

summerwind
02-21-2009, 07:30 AM
Another Texas source is TRDParts4u.com.
Link to hitch
http://www.trdparts4u.com/PD-PT228-69080.aspx?MakeID=1

Link to WireHarness

http://www.trdparts4u.com/PD-PT219-48871.aspx?MakeID=1

klossfam
02-22-2009, 03:20 PM
As long as everyone is having fun posting pics...here it is on a black HLL...Easy install as well...

http://images.photo2.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp53237%3Enu%3D3253%3E9%3C%3A%3E63%3A% 3EWSNRCG%3D32343%3B464%3B787nu0mrjhttp://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43235%3Enu%3D3253%3E9%3C%3A%3E63%3A% 3EWSNRCG%3D3233646%3B45583nu0mrj

kevlmx
02-22-2009, 10:04 PM
Has anyone attempted to adjust the mounting point of the wiring harness? It seems to stick out unnecessarily far. Just an observation. Thank you for the pictures. It helped me decide on the factory hitch.

carbonlink
03-02-2009, 04:53 PM
Exactly, I am sure under the fascia is the metal bar of the hitch assembly. The fascia does make it bump proof, and gives it a nice integrated look. Hey, you saved some money and got the same capability as the factory hitch...I got mine as a factory option because they actually had one on the lot, and I looked all over for one...this was the only one I saw with it...there are not many available from what I can tell.

It is sticking out for sure, the only diff between the factory and the aftermarket like darwtite and valleys is the aftermarket sits lower than the factory. I like the factory. for the aftermarket you'll have a problem on climb it may cause the hitch to hit the ground on approach. just my two cents.

carbonlink
03-02-2009, 05:11 PM
Folks,
after much debate and reading and re-reading of many of these posts (and thanks to all those who have included pics!!!) I think the factory hitch / wiring assembly is the best route.
It seems to keep the hitch from protruding and has the cleanest overall install and look (in my opinion).

That being said, where is the best place to pick one of these up?
I have not yet consulted my local toyota dealer(s), but I have my doubts they're going to be cheap or reasonable and I have no problem lying on my back and doing this in my garage.

Any help or insight would be appriciated.

JC

just got mine last weekend (factory hitch) I installed it my self, it was easy but you need somebody to help you.

I got it from my Toyota dealer, mine accepts AAA discouns which is a 10% savings not bad, I did not pay for shipping. I think you can get it for 375 somewhere , not sure where you located, but shipping will cost you another $60 so you really did not save any.

klossfam
03-16-2009, 03:37 PM
ON THE WIRE HARNESS MOUNTING POINT - It is a bit out in the open but not too bad...I does make it easy it you are constantly hitching and unhitching (which I do a lot of). Also avoids issues when you encounter a trailer with a short wire harness. Biggest issue with the mounting point of the plug is that is gets a lot of crap/corrosion if you don't keep it coated with dielectric grease (even with the fairly tight plug cover)...

newsrv
03-22-2009, 08:29 PM
See post #2 picture, http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=221818

ajsj1
04-30-2009, 12:55 PM
For anyone that has installed an aftermarket hitch (Drawtie or Valley), were you able to re-attached the plastic covers behind the rear wheels after installing the hitch? Is this a problem with a Toyota Factory hitch? Do you need to remove the plastic shields/covers? I have a 2009 Highlander Limited.

Thank you.

Dman1
04-30-2009, 07:47 PM
For anyone that has installed an aftermarket hitch (Drawtie or Valley), were you able to re-attached the plastic covers behind the rear wheels after installing the hitch? Is this a problem with a Toyota Factory hitch? Do you need to remove the plastic shields/covers? I have a 2009 Highlander Limited.

Thank you.

I have the factory hitch on my 2009 Limited and the black plastic covers were reinstalled. I had the dealer install the hitch, so I cannot comment on how easy or difficult it was.

roadkillrob
05-01-2009, 07:15 AM
I have the factory hitch on my 2009 Limited and the black plastic covers were reinstalled. I had the dealer install the hitch, so I cannot comment on how easy or difficult it was.

I beleive if you look at the pdf for the factory install, they give you a template to cut one of the covers and then they an be reinstalled. With the after market one's, you also have to cut the covers to put them back on.

ajsj1
05-01-2009, 02:45 PM
I beleive if you look at the pdf for the factory install, they give you a template to cut one of the covers and then they an be reinstalled. With the after market one's, you also have to cut the covers to put them back on.

Do you know where I might find the template to replace the plastic covers. I have an aftermarket hitch installed on my 2009 Highlander

wellsy02
05-01-2009, 08:27 PM
So I talked with my toyota dealer and they recommended a hitch to be installed by a local company. They installed it and it looks nice, but it is not hidden like the nice ones I have seen on here. I am concerned of the hitch and the cross bar rusting and looking unsightly.

I have a 2009 Toyota Highlander Sport - Pearl White and Black Leather. It is flashy and I can't stand the thought of it rusting now.

Any way I can prevent the rust, or, take it back to the toyota dealer and get them to install the hidden hitch instead?

Let me know what you guys think.

Thanks.

ajsj1
05-03-2009, 12:46 PM
So I talked with my toyota dealer and they recommended a hitch to be installed by a local company. They installed it and it looks nice, but it is not hidden like the nice ones I have seen on here. I am concerned of the hitch and the cross bar rusting and looking unsightly.

I have a 2009 Toyota Highlander Sport - Pearl White and Black Leather. It is flashy and I can't stand the thought of it rusting now.

Any way I can prevent the rust, or, take it back to the toyota dealer and get them to install the hidden hitch instead?

Let me know what you guys think.

Thanks.

I went back to my local dealer and told them I wanted the factory hitch after the salesman convienced me that the aftermarket hitch would be hidden.... it was not. They are going to order me a factory hitch for my 2009 Highlander and give me a credit for the aftermarket hitch. The factory hitch is more expensive, but I like the look better, and as you stated won't have to worry about the other hitch rusting.... as I live in the Midwest.

jmuhammad
05-04-2009, 01:07 AM
I don't have a boat:sosad: but I want the factory hitch (maybe to attach a trailer or something). My Highlander is black...do I need to get the fascia painted or should I just leave it as is (I'm assuming it is a dull black rather than the vehicle shiny black).

So much other stuff I want/need like GPS, alarm/remote start, roof rack crossbars and maybe change my stereo system.

wellsy02
05-04-2009, 05:15 PM
I went back to my local dealer and told them I wanted the factory hitch after the salesman convienced me that the aftermarket hitch would be hidden.... it was not. They are going to order me a factory hitch for my 2009 Highlander and give me a credit for the aftermarket hitch. The factory hitch is more expensive, but I like the look better, and as you stated won't have to worry about the other hitch rusting.... as I live in the Midwest.

This is exactly what happened to me! I live in Nebraska and I was even told by the folks who installed it that the aftermarket hitch would probably only look good until dec at which time all the salt and chemicals will have trashed it.

Did you get much grief getting the aftermarket exchanged? I am trying to accomplish that today!

G2008HL
05-07-2009, 07:47 PM
you might be interested to read about my effort to get a Toyota hitch:

http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=296822

wellsy02
05-14-2009, 03:32 PM
you might be interested to read about my effort to get a Toyota hitch:

http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=296822

Great news. Took in my highlander back to the dealer to my salesman and he took back the hitch, credited me the cash and now is installing the factory hitch instead. An extra 300 bucks or so, but definitely worth every penny for the appearance of it.

advent2010
11-25-2009, 07:50 PM
Does anyone with a factory hitch know if it comes with a hardware bag full of bolts and a push pin?

I got my hitch really cheap along with a bunch of other items. BUT it arrived without this bag. Just want to make sure.

Below is where I bought mine.

http://www.toyotapartsdelivered.com//partSearch.cfm?part_number=PT228-69080

klossfam
11-25-2009, 08:11 PM
You do need the hardware bag...14 bolts and a push pin...not sure if a good pdf was included since the hardware was missing...see pdf instructions below:

http://sumbiz03.home.comcast.net/~sumbiz03/TowHitch.pdf (http://sumbiz03.home.comcast.net/%7Esumbiz03/TowHitch.pdf)

This pdf has the bolt specs if you need to get them elsewhere and the push pin is a basic nylon auto fastener to secure the new rear fascia...Hope this helps.

advent2010
11-26-2009, 09:25 AM
Thanks this sure helps. I already have been trying to look for them but no luck. I will have to insist with the dealer I bought it from to send them to me. I was trying to install it today but can't now. I am glad I ordered early enough before my trip.

Happy Thanksgiving!
:chug:

Dman1
11-26-2009, 11:31 AM
Thanks this sure helps. I already have been trying to look for them but no luck. I will have to insist with the dealer I bought it from to send them to me. I was trying to install it today but can't now. I am glad I ordered early enough before my trip.

Happy Thanksgiving!
:chug:

Happy Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving was 6 and a half weeks ago. ;)