Troubleshooting Frame Collapsing When Torqueing Frame Bolts On 2021 Toyota Tacoma Front Receiver

Updated 03/11/2024 | Published 09/22/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Torque Wrench with Storage Case - 3/8" Drive - 100 ft/lbs of Torque

(7)

$72.37

Question:

I have a 2021 Tacoma Off Road. Has anyone at eTrailer actually installed and torqued the frame spacers? What torque spec should be used on the frame spacers? Instructions say 75 lb ft for all 1/2inch fasteners. The frame collapses and the spacers bend way before 75 ft lb. Feels like 35 or 40 would be max. Or is the frame supposed to collapse? Something doesnt seem right. Thank you.

asked by: Brian T

Expert Reply:

We have installed the Draw-Tite Front Mount Trailer Hitch Receiver # 65070 on a 2015 Toyota Tacoma and did not have any issues with the frame collapsing and spacers bending with the bolts torqued to manufacturer specifications. I have linked the video of the installation below.

I spoke to Draw-Tite and they as well have not ran into this issue on any of the vehicles that they fit the receiver to. They also have not received any complaints of this occurring and I cannot find any reviews of this happening on your Tacoma.

I recommend having your Torque Wrench # PT87ZR tested to ensure that it is not out of calibration.

expert reply by: Bud M

Patrick

3/11/2024

Hi, this happened to me as well on the passenger side in my 2016 tacoma. The drivers side torqued down fine at 75 ft pounds. I know it’s not my torque wrench because I tried two different wrenches. I had to stop because the frame collapsing was becoming noticeable and the spacers were bowing. This is an issue. Draw tite can come to my house and I will be happy to replicate it for them. There may be weak metal at that point on the frame on some trucks or there is another issue with the hitch, but this should be looked at and not dismissed as a “we’ve never seen that before issue” You shouldn’t have to worry about damaging your frame when installing a receiver.

Bud M.

3/11/2024

@Patrick We are not dismissing the fact that it is happening but we are simply pointing out the issue is going to be with the Toyota frame. You will want to contact your local Toyota dealer to have the frame inspected to determine if there was something wrong from the factory or if it could be corrosion with your frame that could be causing the issue.