Options for Towing with 2004 Toyota Tacoma, Bumper Hitch Ball or Frame Mounted Hitch

Published 05/09/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(197)

$239.09

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1382)

$94.77

Question:

Have a 2004 Tacoma RWD, bumper weight rating 850lb. Will only transport Riding lawn mower, and other light loads. My question is would just using ball to bumper be safe, if not what would be recommended?

asked by: Henry R

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you plan to tow very light trailers the bumper hitch ball option you mentioned on your 2004 Toyota Tacoma would be adequate. The best option for towing anything substantial would be a frame mounted hitch like the Draw Tite part # 75078 that you referenced though. This gives you the flexibility to tow what you mentioned as well as tow heavier trailers in the future as well. It has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs trailer weight.

Since you wanted to do some towing you might be interested in etrailer ball mount kit # 989900 with the Draw Tite hitch. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not include a ball mount with the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, check out the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

If you need trailer wiring too you'd want the 4-way kit part # 118379. This kit is very easy to install and comes with a very reliable converter box so it will last a long time.

expert reply by: Jameson C