Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver To Replace Factory Tow PKG Hitch Receiver On 2004 Toyota Tundra
Question:
Hi. I have a 2004 Toyota Tundra SR5 Access cab 4.7 V8 4x4 TRD with the factory installed hitch and tow package. If memory serves me correctly the truck was rated for 7100 pounds towing capacity. The factory hitch has a few large rust holes in it and needs replaced but the frame rails themselves look pretty solid. I looked at your hitches but they all say they won’t fit a truck with a factory mounted hitch. What options do I have for a hitch of at least the factory specification capacity or greater. Thank you.
asked by: Eric
Expert Reply:
From my research it appears there are only two options to replace your factory tow package trailer hitch receiver on your 2004 Toyota Tundra SR5. You can purchase a new one from your local Toyota dealer or you can replace your factory bumper with a non-towing bumper and use an aftermarket trailer hitch receiver like the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # 37130 which offers a 700lb maximum tongue weight rating and a 7000lb maximum trailer weight rating without weight distribution and 1000lb maximum tongue weight rating and 10000lb maximum trailer weight rating with weight distribution.
The reason for replacing your factory tow package bumper with a non-towing bumper is that the factory trailer hitch receiver is actually bolted to the bumper and the frame, and will get in the way with an aftermarket trailer hitch receiver that bolts only to the frame.
I recommend consulting your owner's manual or your local dealership to determine your vehicle's maximum towing capacity and use the lower between the trailer hitch receiver and vehicle.
