So as mentioned in another thread, I bought my `21 Tacoma used. So I knew I had a few things to deal with, unlike the wife`s truck. Hers was practically brand new. I almost past on this ruck because of the hitch and receiver. As you can see, it was rusted together and I mean this was one piece. So I thought I would just replace the hitch receiver and call it a day. WRONG!!!!! Come to find out, the hitch receiver mount is also part of the rear bumper mount. These two pieces are on one mounting bracket that bolts underneath. You can`t just replace the hitch receiver like most other trucks. Toyota for some ungodly reason, decided to make the two pieces on one mount. There are no after market parts available and even at Toyota, this mounting bracket for this truck is on backorder.
So while I was at the after market shop, I asked them to see if they could at least remove the pin on the rusted in hitch. Thankfully they succeeded after much abusive language and a few broken tools. After that, I went to work on it. Soaked it down with PB Blaster and started banging on it with a sledge hammer. Several hours later I finally got it to move. Game on - a little more soaking and a lot more banging, that piece of $hit finally came out of there.
Half the battle was done. I cleaned up all the rust and treated it with Corroseal Rust Converter. Once that was cured, I painted with Rustoleum. If ya`ll ever need to treat anything for rust prevention, this product Corroseal is the real deal. Here are a few pics.
So while I was at the after market shop, I asked them to see if they could at least remove the pin on the rusted in hitch. Thankfully they succeeded after much abusive language and a few broken tools. After that, I went to work on it. Soaked it down with PB Blaster and started banging on it with a sledge hammer. Several hours later I finally got it to move. Game on - a little more soaking and a lot more banging, that piece of $hit finally came out of there.
Half the battle was done. I cleaned up all the rust and treated it with Corroseal Rust Converter. Once that was cured, I painted with Rustoleum. If ya`ll ever need to treat anything for rust prevention, this product Corroseal is the real deal. Here are a few pics.
