How To Lower The Exhaust Pipes For A Trailer Hitch Install On A 2013 Toyota Sienna

Updated 07/17/2017 | Published 07/16/2017

Question:

when installing this trailer hitch receiver , the exhaust pipe is in the way. how do i move the exhaust pipe??

asked by: Peter C

Expert Reply:

In order to install the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13105 on your 2013 Toyota Sienna, you will first need to lower the exhaust pipes from the rear of the vehicle. To do this, you will need a can of spray lubricant such as WD40 or PB Blaster in addition to either a large pry bar or exhaust hanger removal tool. The rear exhaust pipes are attached to the frame by a metal exhaust hanger and a rubber isolator. The isolators are located underneath the vehicle just behind the rear mud flaps. I have attached a photo of a rubber isolator and metal exhaust hanger for you.

There are two isolators in which you will need to remove in order to install the hitch. You will want begin by applying a small amount of lubricant to each of the rubber isolators. You can then use either the pry bar or exhaust hanger removal tool to release the hanger from the bottom portion of the isolator. Once released, you will need to do the same to the other side. It is always a good ideal to use a support strap to rest the exhaust pipes on while lowered, in order to prevent damage to the exhaust system. Once the exhaust pipes are removed from the rubber isolator, you can then install the hitch receiver.

The exhaust location will different for every vehicle even within the same manufacturer as they are not placed in an exact location among every vehicle from factory. This will in turn, cause installation difficulties across various platforms while installing a hitch receiver.

It may also be necessary to bend the exhaust hangers if you find that the exhaust pipes are making contact with the hitch receiver. If this is necessary, you will want to apply a small amount of heat to the exhaust hangers while gently prying them away from the hitch receiver.

I have also attach an installation video of this hitch on a similar year 2014 Toyota Sienna that will show you how this is done, you can fast forward to the 1:29 mark in the video to see the exhaust hanger removal.

expert reply by: Conner L