Welded trailer hitch SERIOUS problem

drktacoma · 2025-05-31T23:53:28+00:00

Recently I relocated from Utah to Nashville Tennessee one and a half weeks after buying my new 4G Tacoma. I towed a 5x8 Uhaul travel trailer with all my crap loaded to the brim and I wanted to share my experience on how the truck handled it. For starters I have a TRD Offroad iForce-MAX Premium Package (tow haul etc), DCSB. No vehicle or performance modifications. 5x8 Uhaul EMPTY trailer weight: 900 lbs Max Load: 1,800 lbs Max Load + Trailer Weight: 2,700 lbs Actual Load: 1,500 lbs Total Load + Trailer Weight: 2,400 lbs I didn't have a lot of skepticism on how the truck would handle the trailer and weight rather I had no expectations other than the fact that it would handle it better than my previous 3G. The 3 day journey was actually ENJOYABLE driving the truck with the trailer. I split up the days into two 9 hours and one 5 hour drive and it was quite relaxing. You most certainly know there is a trailer back there but it didn't gear hunt, held a constant rpm and delivered instant power when I asked for it. The trailer had no brakes so therefore I didn't utilize the trailer brake system and handled normal braking just fine! I did utilize the tow/haul mode on the selector on the lower pedestal and it held a higher RPM around 1000 more than if you weren't towing. Over the course of 3 days (1650 miles) I averaged 75 MPHS with a consistent 3000 RPM and 14.5 MPG with cruise control on 65% of the time with a dang headwind or crosswind the entire drive. I didn't utilize the backup assist features as I didn't have time to set it up before hand but the visibility from the mirrors and backup camera was suitable for manual reversing. To say I was impressed and happy would be an understatement, the truck exceeded my expectations. Would I do it again? Yea if I had to...sure the truck was super comfortable with the new seats, infotainment and climate control that it was as pleasurable an XC road trip can be through half a dozen flat states. Overall this put another stamp of approval on liking the 4G and being happy with the switch from the 3G. If you have any questions about it let me know I'm happy to answer! Overnight stop in St. Louis. Overnight stop in North Platte Nebraska.

ingog

New member

Jan 27, 2025

The 24 has a welded hitch which is now part of the frame. If you get bumped and your hitch deflects 4 mm (between 1/8 and 1/4 in) your truck is considered TOTALLED. Tacoma rule. New frame needed. Insuring won’t pay to replace the whole frame even IF could get one. You canlose thousand of dollars. In the past the hitch is either repaired or replaced. I’m trading mine in as soon as the Taco cones with a bolt on hitch.

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