Does Undercoat Need Removing To Install Trailer Hitch on 2014 Toyota Highlander

Updated 08/05/2020 | Published 08/04/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(1030)

$254.62

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2639)

$13.86

Convert-A-Ball Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 10,000 lbs

(1388)

$76.72

Question:

My 2014 Toyota Highlander has some under coating on the mounting area, but it is not even as some areas dont have any at all. Does the undercoating have to be removed or can I just add some to the areas without any to make it a flat surface. Which would also help prevent galvanic corrosion. Thank you.

asked by: Sheldon S

Expert Reply:

You'll want to scrape off the undercoating so that the hitch will mount to a flat surface. If you expose any bare metal from the scraping, you can shoot any bare metal with a quick shot of rust inhibiting spray paint if you wish. Since the hitch and the vehicle body are both constructed of steel, you needn't worry about any galvanic corrosion. If you leave the undercoat in place, it could deteriorate over time and leave the hitch loosened. Which would be bad.

If you'll be towing with the hitch, you'll need a few other items to complete your towing system. For a trailer wiring harness, use # 118449 for a 4-pole or # 22119 for a 7-way. For a ball mount, use # AMSC2 and # 19260 for a 1-7/8 or # 63845 for a 2 inch trailer ball.

I've linked to some installation videos you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L