Hitch question

[jayfredweb]

I hope this is the correct section to post this question in.

What are the differences between the two types of tow hitch setups that come with the tow-package on 4Runners?

The Large setup:
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h23/jayfredweb/Web%20Images/hitch-9inches.jpg
Picture stolen from another forum site.

or
The small hitch setup:
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h23/jayfredweb/Web%20Images/sample7nt6.jpg
Picture stolen from Teotwaki's Gallery & What I have on my 4Runner.

Part numbers would also be helpful...

[Crozhawk]

can't speak for the small one but the first one is the load distributing hitch, which i believe has quite a bit larger capacity rating. Take a look in your manual, i believe the differences are described there IIRC.

[jayfredweb]

can't speak for the small one but the first one is the load distributing hitch, which i believe has quite a bit larger capacity rating. Take a look in your manual, i believe the differences are described there IIRC. Reading the manual. Now there is a novel idea!

[jayfredweb]

Alright..., I've answered my own question. The differences are:
The Large hitch: is actually the weight distributing hitch
The Small hitch: is a weight carrying hitch (Type A or B)

As per the manual for the 2005: "If towing a trailer and cargo weighing over 2268kg (5000 lb.), Toyota recommends to use a weight distributing hitch."

So I guess for practical reasons, it's probably better to install a weight distributing hitch.

My new question would be, for those of you who have the weight distributing hitch, and tires that don't fit in the spare tire location, have the components of the hitch that attach to the frame held up to the beating of the trail?? I guess I'm just concerned about anything else hanging down in the back. My weight carrying hitch is very solid and can take a direct hit on rock ledge without any damage.

[Mikestang]

I've never had the hitch hit anything. I've scraped both bottoms of the rear quarter panels, and I've scraped my shackle reciever, but the hitch itself is stout and I wouldn't worry about it.