3.5” Pin solves Hitch problem

[Bruce]

I think a 3.5” SS hitch pin (as shown below) will solve some of the problems many have noted with the GX receiver. The hitch portion of the bumper has 3 parts: A) an inner part that remains hidden, B) a U-shaped part shown in the photos below, and C) a black center part that covers the receiver that must be removed to tow. The factory pin is too long to install without removing all 3 parts, then replacing parts A and B to tow. This is very annoying, and will result in broken plastic with regular use. My solution was to buy a shorter pin that can be installed without removing parts A and B. Then there are 2 options. Option 1 is to leave all 3 parts attached when not in use, and then remove Part C to expose the receiver for towing. Option 2 is to permanently remove part C, thus leaving the receiver exposed whether towing or not. Thus, no delicate and noxious plastic need be disturbed to tow a trailer. This will be my method. I regularly tow one of four trailers and don’t want to remove and store part when I tow. I know this makes the rear bumper a bit ugly, such is life; I like to use my SUV with a capital “U”. I am planning to soon depart for a month of hunting, biking, and birding in Arizona as my maiden GX voyage; so time will tell. Questions or comments?

 

[nopantz]

I use this locking pin and similar quick links. Limits the fuss with the receiver hitch.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08KT6G5PN?ref=ppx_pt2_dt_b_prod_image&th=1&tag=lexusgx-20

Amazon.com