Is a Towing Bumper on a 2006 Toyota Tundra Considered a Factory Hitch

Updated 06/05/2012 | Published 06/01/2012

Question:

I have a 2006 Toyota Tundra/235HP/V-6, It has a towing package, light hook-up, plus transmission cooler. But it only came with a hole in the bumper for a trailer ball. Is this considered a factory hitch??? Just want to make sure.

asked by: Ben I

Expert Reply:

What you describe is a towing bumper, but not a factory hitch. A towing bumper is usually limited to a 3500 lb towing / 350 lb tongue weight, but you should verify this by checking your owners manual. With a towing bumper, your trailer ball will be at a set height, which may or may not be compatible with the height of your trailer coupler. Having the trailer towing so that it is level is an important factor in helping to prevent trailer sway.

If you can install a trailer ball into the bumper that will tow your trailer so that it is level and if the trailer weight and tongue weight are within the capacity rating of the bumper, you are in good shape. If the trailer is not level, then you will need to go with a receiver hitch.

Using an aftermarket hitch like the Draw-Tite Class III receiver part # 75105 will provide a higher towing capacity (5000 lb/500 lb Tongue Weight), but you will be limited to the manufacturers stated towing capacity of the vehicle.

The hitch will also allow you to use a ball mount with the appropriate rise or drop that will allow you to to a trailer so that it is level.

I have linked you to the install instructions for the Draw-Tite 75105, and also to our ball mount FAQ article that explains how to choose the proper ball mount for your trailer coupler height.

expert reply by: Mike L