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2023 SR5 - 2WD / 4 Cyl - trailer hitch question

1_hard_shell_taco_please

1️⃣ Getting Started...
Hi everyone,

I have searched around on the forum and not found any postings that answer my questions . . .

I have a 2023 Tacoma SR5 (2WD, 4‑cylinder).

This truck did not come with a trailer hitch, but I occasionally need to tow a small trailer—mainly for short trips (about 2 miles) to haul junk to the local recycling center.

I’m looking at adding a tow hitch bar to my 2023 4 cyl tacoma SR5 (short bed) - and found a used OEM trailer hitch (in nice condition) for under $200.
The seller does not have any mounting hardware (no bolts, lock washers, no trailer wiring harness—just the hitch itself).
I don't know what a complete trailer hitch kit includes, so ... I don't know what is missing for me to complete this installation. (bolts, washers, spacers, harness, etc).

I have seen this video on the tubeyou channel where he has replaced a rusted out OEM hitch with another OEM hitch in better condition. However Im not seeing enough information for me to confidently say - ive got what I need to complete the install of an OEM hitch that would fit my 2023 taco ....

https://www.google.com/search?q=tac...qOpoKhM&vld=cid:94497dd4,vid:-PuXGGfEvsg,st:0

Before I go ahead and complete the purchase of the OEM hitch, I’d appreciate any advice you might have:
  • I plan to handle the installation myself ( ive got the mechanical skills, and the tools to move forward).
  • Are there any known issues or complications with installing an OEM Toyota tow bar on a 2023 4‑cyl SR5 (that did NOT originally have a OEM hitch on it ) ?
  • From what I can tell (from the video ) , I may need to remove the current bumper and the existing sub‑frame to make room for the new hitch. It seems like the OEM hitch replaces that original sub-frame extension. Does anyone know if that’s the case or if there are any gotchas I should be aware of?
  • I’m not planning to install the wiring harness right away, since I only need the trailer locally for now. But I do intend to add the wiring later in case I need the trailer outside my area. Any tips or recommendations on the wiring would also be appreciated.
  • Since the wiring harness , bolts and mounting hardware do not come with the trailer hitch - what do I need to purchase to safely (and thoroughly) complete the installation? (+2 points for part numbers ! )
Thanks in advance for your time.
Dave
 
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