2010-2019 Lexus GX460 tow hitch receiver installation

[@JoeQuartararo]

Hey Bob - Got this install done this weekend, thanks for the tips! Had to drop the spare tire and used your video for that too. Your the gift that keeps on giving to GX owners!

[@GXBOB]

I’m glad the vid helped out Joe.

[@bvpshell2127]

You are awesome, my favorite diy projects for GX channel. Please don’t stop posting.

[@GXBOB]

Hey BVP, hope you haven't disappeared off the face of the Earth.

[@Richie2335]

This dude has me cracking up lol 😂

[@art2lyd12]

Ok Mr. GX Bob, finally got my Curt tow hitch receiver installed. For some reason on my 2018 I had to use that extra spacer that Curt sent me. In addition, since my spare is still like new and not bald, I had to lower the spare just a bit to get the job done. Could not find my torque wrench I bought in 1974, I think I tossed it at my last move. So, time to get a new one. But it looks just fine now. Gracias for the video again.

[@GXBOB]

Hey Art! Yeah that spacer would have done the trick. I need at least another 1/4-1/2” clearance. This is one of my oldies but goodies. 👍😆

[@stephenlynch6934]

Thanks Bob, as I just bought a 2017 GX460 and your videos have been very helpful. I purchased this receiver hitch and a torque wrench from Harbor Freight. I just didn't have the faith to torque down more then 80 lbs, as I don't trust this cheap wrench. The installation went just as you described, I just had to lower my tire to get it out of the way. Thanks again!!! Steve

[@GXBOB]

Only reason i used a harbor freight torque wrench was because the only thing that tow hitch receiver would ever hitch to would be a pair of jetskis or a cargo basket. If i were to tow an RV or boat, i'd think i'd take it to a mechanic and have him confirm the torque for me with his overpriced SnapOn wrench. Thanks for the comment!

[@TN_HondaDad]

Recently purchased a beautiful silver/black interior 2014 GX460. This thing is boss coming from my 04 4Runner. Will be doing this soon as was a little disappointed it didn't come with from from the factory which I think all 4Runners do. Any who, seems like about a 10 min job and will be sure to clean out the holes some as there is some light surface rust as the vehicle came from New Hampshire (I'm in Nashville) but will use some grease to pre-lube the threads before attaching. I tow a light trailer with dirt bike's so the 5000LB is more than enough for my needs. Thank you for all the video's you post and love the humor along the way. :-}

[@GXBOB]

Thanks for tuning in Ron. Question, did the tow hitch come with a spacer?

[@TN_HondaDad]

@@GXBOB Haven't purchased it yet but will post back when I receive it.

[@GXBOB]

@@TN_HondaDad Its been 2 years and i'm still waiting for your post.

[@nickb1690]

Just watched this so I’m late to the party . The commentary was hilarious. Great job Bob .

[@GXBOB]

Thanks Nick. There’s plenty commentary on every video. Some are okay with it and some let me know I’m a douchebag. Kinda used to it.

[@uncleaaron5435]

I’m not sure why my gx460 has only two holes that align up instead of 4 holes. I have 2019 :(

[@GXBOB]

Uncle Aaron, i can't say i can relate to your issue unless i see it first hand. I'm sure there's a rhyme and reason why but its difficult to diagnose w/o physically being there.

[@darylnd]

Love it! I just bought an off-lease, 2018 Premium. It also didn't come with the tow hitch receiver. I want one as a rear recovery point, not for towing. I've got a Craftsman torque wrench I bought more decades ago than I'm willing to admit. One of these days, I'll quit being a tightwad and pop for an impact driver: I already own a DeWalt 20V Max drill. Cheers from NorCal! Subscribed!

[@GXBOB]

I love craftsman but the closing of all the Sears stores resulted in a garage full of harbor freight junk. Thanks for watching Daryl!

[@marcelocayetano5951]

Man you’re awesome! Watching and listening to you is very entertaining. Now makes me wonder if I got a damned use tire. I’ll be checking mine tomorrow. Thanks Bob. Lmao

[@GXBOB]

Any time my friend, any time.

[@joshdelamater7273]

GX Bob saves the day again! Thank you!

[@GXBOB]

I think i need to do one video without talking. I'm starting to annoy myself.

[@artaxerces7280]

Bob bought receiver easy install great vid. I bought base model too. Thanks.

[@GXBOB]

I don't know why but for some reason when i say your name it reminds me of the movie 300. Related to the Persian ruler?

[@gregs7753]

The jail comment “I’m speaking from experience”. Hilarious. Thx man.

[@GXBOB]

Well... I am speaking from experience

[@marcelocayetano5951]

Well I finally installed my hitch Bob per your instructions. I’ve got thesame problem trying to screw the damned bolts, as expected missed the hole so many times. But finally I was able to get them right after I sweated out a glass. In this part of the US , Texas you’ll sweat out before you even reach your car. Thanks on your vlog the hitch on my GX 460 is done. Oh I even took your advise about the tools, bought it at Harbor Freight. Now my next project will be the installation of the racks. I think I’ll wait till the weather gets cold.

[@GXBOB]

Thank God for southern California!

[@doctorwgca]

I have the tow package, no clue how it works. Looking forward to your fog light video......

[@212caboose]

I can't remember if I commented before... Thanks for this vid! This is not as high clearance as a Metaltech hitch, but it's easier to install, and I'll have clearance with the tire carrier I've chosen to open the rear window w/o opening up the tire carrier...

[@GXBOB]

What are u hitching up to that tow hitch receiver if you don't mind me asking.

[@thorsky2754]

The new Curt Hitch comes with a spacer to clears that little trim piece on the bumper and so you don't need to remove it

[@GXBOB]

not necessary. Still fits like a charm regardless.

[@mrmpostr]

Hey Bob - Glad I found your channel - I was hoping you could help with something related to this - I just bought a 2016 GX 460 premium and had a small utility trailer hooked up to it. I was backing the trailer in the dark and hit my Barn which in turn broke the tailight out of the trailer - Since then, I added new lights to the trailer and realized that all the lights work as intended EXCEPT the running lights - Important note, all lights in the GX work fine. The trailer running lights work when hooked to another vehicle, so its something in the Lexus - A quick forum search and there are lots of people who have experienced this -It seems there is a hidden fuse somewhere and I cant find it - Wondering if you may know? -PS. I have an Ex too and you crack me up with your stories. Keep em coming and Thank You sir!

[@GXBOB]

Jay...dude...you grounded out your receptacle. Looking for where that short is is a headache. i ,for one, don't know where that fuse is unless you go thru all the fuses in the box above your foot e-brake or the box under your hood. What i would do is go straight to your trailer hookup receptacle under your rear bumper and locate which prong is your running light. You can find this on google. I would cut the wire behind it(it may be grounded, that's why i would cut instead of tap into...) and i would just run my own wire from the receptacle end and tap into my OEM tail lights running light. Hope that helps. Also try looking at other Lexus models besides the GX for the same issue. It may be related. Here is a link: www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-1st-gen-1999-2003/513794-running-lights-not-working-on-4-pin-towing-connector.html

[@bigdawgs2k]

Hey Bob, I'm looking to try out the travel trailer life style with my 2015 GX460 (base). Years back I installed the same hitch in your video, which is Class III (5000LBS). My question for you our community are: 1) Does the GX460 need anything added for Break Controls? 2: The GX460 has a max tow capacity of 6,500 lbs and the $300 OEM HITCH is CLASS IV that rated for all of the GX460 6,500 lbs rating, so I might upgrade...does that sound right? Thank you for your insights and feedback!

[@GXBOB]

I think my first question is "what are you towing?" In the video, i mentioned that i was using it to hook up a tow basket to carry bicycles and portable bbq's to the park and back. Which does not require a brake controller. Then i finally bought a lite trailer rated under 3000lbs. I recently did a video on brake controller installation because now my tow is a lot larger (still under 5k lbs), but i chose to add the controller to not only assist in braking, but to lighten the wear on my truck's brakes while helping to control sway and higher speeds. I also added a distribution bar to my hitch which is awesome. I'll never upgrade to a higher rated oem hitch because its really heavy and i have no need for it unless i'm going to tow anything longer than 20 ft. or double axled. My current travel trailer is a 17 footer and is very light.

[@ammaralazaway9113]

I don't even own Lexus but enjoyed listing to you talk sh$$t thanks for the video.😀

[@GXBOB]

Thanks for encouraging me to stay immature. 😁

[@user-hd8ej8yx9p]

You crack me up every time bro

[@GXBOB]

dude, this video is like years and years ago. I have since been more professional in making my vids.

[@jonsou9313]

Im planning on going this route because i cant find the oem hitch anywhere in stock my question is do i have to buy a wiring kit also to hook up to my boat trailer? My boat is aluminium 17fter maybe around 2k marker.

[@GXBOB]

Not sure why you’d need a wiring kit. Your truck should already be prewired. Look to the left of your tow hitch for the trailer plug.

[@jonsou9313]

@@GXBOB thanks will do just thought it would be a different type of plug from the vehicle to the trailer

[@Stellateeee]

I see 2 large bars can be attached to the hitch and chassis of the car... Is it a must Or just these 4 bolts are strong enough?

[@GXBOB]

Hi Mohd, The Curtis tow hitch receiver i installed has a towing capacity of 5000lbs which is the perfect application for my boat and travel trailer which are both around 3500lbs and less. The OEM tow hitch receiver that extends out with the two bars you're referring to have a towing capacity of 6500lbs for larger applications. I, personally, would stick to the 4 bolt tow hitch as to not overstrain the transmission on a GX460.

[@MirandaDetailing]

Hi! Do you have a link to the one you bought? Or would any 2010-2019 GX tow hitch receiver work? Thanks

[@GXBOB]

Any GX460 tow hitch receiver will work but keep in mind there are 2 different types depending on your application. The one i have is to tow lighter loads and only has 4 bolts to install. The other one is a larger design that has arms split out to the side that tows larger trailers. Just google the model number i provided in the video and quite a few will pop up. Its just a matter of how soon you want it and how cheap you want it but they're all the same bolt pattern.

[@freshdotholla]

Bob did they stop making the oem tow hitch? i can’t seem to find it anywhere for a 2022 thoughts please

[@GXBOB]

Here is an interesting thread to read. Scroll down to a commenter by the username "Sarasotastig". Its presumptions but does make sense: forum.ih8mud.com/threads/2022-gx460-hitch-question.1270345/page-2

[@freshdotholla]

@@GXBOB you the man

[@mickeymcfinnigan2407]

Hey Bob. I am curious of the tongue weight rating on this one as I plan on using a motorcycle carrier. I feel it would not be exactly towing as much as the dead weight sitting on the hitch, I could be wrong. Your thoughts please? I tried to purchase the oem one but was told there is a stop sale on them as lexus found a defect.

[@GXBOB]

Hey Mickey. Even though this Curtis hitch is rated to 5,000 lbs. gross trailer weight, the tongue weight is only 500 lbs. I have installed a pretty heavy iron basket at around 200 lbs to carry 4 bicycles but no way am i going to trust it to support a motorcycle and a carrier. I would definitely lean towards the full Lexus hitch once the defect has been corrected.

[@mickeymcfinnigan2407]

@@GXBOB My thoughts exactly. Appreciate your reply and your content.

[@allenw4]

lol 😂 funny cool post. My seller indeed did not include the bolts mtfrs!

[@GXBOB]

Thats not good. Make sure you get grade 8 corrosion resistant bolts.

[@allenw4]

Can you please tell me the exact size??? I appreciate it 🙏🏼

[@GXBOB]

@@allenw4 Here is the link to the M12x1.25x35mm Class 8.8 fasteners: amzn.to/4hAOgju Here is the link to the 1/2" split washers: amzn.to/48CifDv

[@allenw4]

@@GXBOB how come curt brand suggest 10.9? I guess 8.8 works too? Thank you so much

[@enriquecarrillo3909]

Bob, I have a 2022 with the Sport package, do you think this hitch will fit? I’m concerned that the bumper cover will be too snug. I don’t want to order it unless I’m sure. Your thoughts?

[@GXBOB]

The hitch comes with a spacer that i didn’t use. It allows your hitch to clear the bumper. When in doubt, order off Amazon so the return is seamless.

[@enriquecarrillo3909]

Thanks Bob, will do.

[@rustambabaniyazov3090]

Nice! Thank you! This piece on Amazon $158.99

[@GXBOB]

Wow price went up significantly.

[@H3LLZ]

This hitch is awesome, I have it on my gx460 too. easy install and cheap 👍

[@GXBOB]

Yeah can’t beat a 4 bolt installation!

[@JM-sk9yr]

Thanks Bob! Just ordered from Amazon for a 2022. I noticed how snug it appeared to be on your tire. Will the tire drop free and clear? Or is it going to take some rocking to get it out of there...and some elbow grease to replace it after?

[@GXBOB]

So check this out JM. When you crank the pulley to bring up your spare tire, you’re able to guide it up more forward and/or back. There’s slack. The reason you don’t see clearance between my hitch and spare is because my spare was already there without realizing i would install a tire hitch receiver one day. All i did was crank that spare loose and readjusted to give more clearance.

[@AgentJ415]

I got a base model too but it came with a tow hitch and wiring. I'm the second owner. Having no fogs bugs me though. That's my next project.

[@GXBOB]

I have this weird feeling the previous owner took the tow hitch with him before he sold the car to me. I also plan to do the foglights!

[@AgentJ415]

@@GXBOB Petty. Looking forward to if you find a way to tap into the stock harnesses or system. Only solution I found is a standalone setup. Should be easier than tinkering with stock systems.

[@GXBOB]

@@AgentJ415 Do you have a link on the standalone system? Is it a good fit with brackets for Lexus or is this something you have to heavily customize?

[@AgentJ415]

@@GXBOB I think this would work with minor modification to the empty space where the fogs would have gone below the blinkers on the front bumper. With proper sealant and LED bulb it would look almost stock. I also found some stand alone items from diode dynamics website and rough country on Amazon. www.amazon.com/dp/B00KTNBDXQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_VEyuFbXG1HE9P www.amazon.com/dp/B07KYS58BN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_4JyuFbV8EA8WP

[@GXBOB]

@@AgentJ415 I am definitely going to look into it.

[@pllanes9415]

Hey Bob, did you ever have any BSM system issues after installing your hitch? I bought a Reese hitch that is similar to this one and seems like immediately after I installed it my blind spot system went wacky. Thanks for all the videos mang!

[@GXBOB]

Your BSM is in the rear and sees whatever you're towing as a threat. I would go into your navi systems setting and turn off your BSM when you're towing. I do not have this issue but i am aware of some people having sensitive BSM's.

[@tareqaziz3463]

Does this come with bolts? I order the same part on Amazon but didn't come with bolts. Do I need to buy them separately?

[@GXBOB]

They’re supposed to come with the hardware

[@tareqaziz3463]

Do you recommend reaching out to manufacturer? Or picking the bolts from my local home depot?

[@xaerospace]

Why is the Curt tow hitch just these 4 bolts and the factory Lexus is the entire side to side 12 bolt system? Also, I think the Lexus one is Class 4 and this is class 3?

[@GXBOB]

You are correct David, its the towing capacity. The 12 bolt system is great for towing my ex-wife while the 4 bolt is good for a couple of jetskis. To be honest, if you're not hooking up a 30 foot RV, i'd go with the 4 bolt one because it looks cleaner and classier.

[@GymBenefits-d9c]

@@GXBOByou are correct…thé OEM Lexus tow hitch is hideous and a shin hazard. The most bizarre design ever.

[@Choji59]

Would you move the 7 pin hitch location?

[@GXBOB]

Because it’s not really assessable? Nah, i just buy an extension.

[@Choji59]

@@GXBOB yea. It’s in a hidden spot. Okay thanks bob 👍

[@beachlifetravelblt9107]

Does it come with the Short or Long bolts? Did you need to use the plate? They sent me the one with plate.

[@GXBOB]

Everything u see in the picture is what i received.

[@chickensfloat7427]

Well thats easy. Much more than any other hitch ive installed

[@AngelRivera-wp9bg]

Outstanding , I got my sister to do it.

[@GXBOB]

👍🍷

[@rafik3960]

His favorite words are peace of sh*t 😂

[@GXBOB]

not really, i also say "you whore of a goat" sometimes too.

[@АлексейГригорьев-е7у]

Fine! I will be installing on my gx in a few days, in Russia.

[@GXBOB]

Russia is the best, comrade!

[@LEXUSLX-cj5pn]

Thank you

[@GXBOB]

You're welcome

[@christinex7629]

Thanks exactly what I need lol

[@richc.1904]

Just subscribed. Anyways, did you get rid of the black GX? Was hoping to see more vids on that since I have a 2012. Thanks!

[@GXBOB]

I did get rid of the black one but im checking almost everyday for another 2nd generation as a project car. A good deal is hard to come by since everyone nowadays knows the GX's worth

[@richc.1904]

@@GXBOB You are correct on that one, even here in Canada, or atleast in my area, it is very hard to come by an affordable used one, they don't stay in the lots for more than a day or two. I had that experience when I was communicating on the email and the next thing the dealership sent me was it was already sold. Anyways, I'm learning a lot from you. Keep it up and thank you very much!

[@b4baj]

I like your humor

[@GXBOB]

That’s only because i have to be professional and mature all day at work. 🍷

[@natescott941]

I enjoyed this… now, lemme call my little sister to do the job.

[@GXBOB]

You have pics of your little sis you wanna share?

[@MrElahi1983]

I bought a 2022 gx , I will be towing a 3500 travel trailer with weight distribution

[@GXBOB]

That’s what i tow also and with a weight distribution bar

[@MrElahi1983]

@@GXBOB how does it feel when you tow? Is it smooth , gas destroyer? Thanks Dr. E

[@focusonyou08]

He beat me to the punch! I was going to say he needs to call his little sister!

[@boknows8263]

nice, I just bought this thing last night, bought a 2016 GX 460 luxury @80kmiles for $36600 2 weeks ago, feel overpaid, dealer was not willing to lower the price by a penny. btw, I have the same impact driver and the same torch wrench from harbor freight lol

[@GXBOB]

that torque wrench is a piece of shit. I'm selling my 2017 with fewer miles for 33k. But its, not a luxury edition. But i didn't care. I wanted to work on the car myself anyways. The impact driver is nice. I have a 1/2 inch, 3/8 inch, and 1/4 inch. Got them during the sales.

[@boknows8263]

@@GXBOB I didn't know that I can get yours for 33k, well before tax, tax is around 2k, so 35k, better than what I paid for.

[@GXBOB]

@@boknows8263 I would have put down 15k to help you with taxes.

[@boknows8263]

@@GXBOB just bought DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench, 1/2-Inch, Tool Only (DCF889B), I realized that I only have a impact driver ( for nails in wood/mental) and don't have an impact wrench.

[@thorsky2754]

I'll come here for the abusive motivation... Hahaha

[@GXBOB]

it's self therapy.

[@focusonyou08]

He's funny. Tell us how you really feel!

[@GXBOB]

i feel like i'm wasting my life away when i should be on a mega yacht surrounded by hot babes.

[@Moondoggy1941]

1:22 If you want to????

[@GXBOB]

Live dangerous my friend

[@Moondoggy1941]

@@GXBOB Put two Santa Cruz's on there and I will follow you to the trail. LOL

[@flight2k5]

Interesting. My 2010 has a normal receiver.

[@GXBOB]

You have the oem one rated for higher load. This is for GX’s that didn’t come with that option

[@usertakenagain]

I Have the luxury version. Doesn't have this either

[@GXBOB]

I rather have this small 5k puller than those large wheel to wheel hitches. But then again, the stuff i tow are a lot smaller. For around $100 you can’t go wrong.

[@Sh_Tha23]

I'm trying to install the same hitch on my 2012 gx460. The two bolts that go into the two holes closest to the spare tire go in super tight. It goes in smooth halfway and then gets tight. The other two bolts furthest from the spare goes in all the way smoothly. Did you experience this? I didn't know if it's rust. I've used wd40 and wire brushing

[@GXBOB]

I would take a bristle brush and go thru your bolt holes a few times then lube them up with some good moly grease. Afterwards, I'd take your bolts and go in and out until they fully seat all the way. Your threads just need to be cleaned out from all the elements that resided in there. Your car may have gone in the water at some point and rusted inside there.

[@phuonghuynh6476]

Hi GX*BOB. Thanks for the video clip. Hi S.Tha. My is also a 2012 gx460 and I installed the same hitch yesterday. I had the exact same issue as your described. I do not know but it seem like it is not because of the rust but it looks like the two bolts reach the upper end of the weldnut and can not go further. I can not see it but I take my finger and try to reach that part and that is what I think what happen. So I ended up to have to use the top plate that they included with the hitch and was able to install it. I wish I do not have to use this spacer.

[@Sh_Tha23]

@@phuonghuynh6476 I actually got the bolts all the way through. My problem was the rust. I used a wire brush drill bit and removed on the rust. Those bolts should be ok with additional plate

[@phuonghuynh6476]

@@Sh_Tha23 Thanks for your information. I wish I have known about that sooner so I would have not had to use the additional plate. Too lazy now to take it off and do the installation again…😀. Thanks.

[@Redstriker265]

My hitch came with a spacer plate that I needed to use on my 2010. The rear bolts were hitting metal

[@campbowie22]

lol Toyota quoted me 1500$ to do hitch and wiring. Uhaul quoted me 400$ love it....

[@GXBOB]

They may have not converted Rubles to dollars yet when they gave u that price

[@campbowie22]

@@GXBOB lol what a price difference though!

[@franciscoperez6356]

👍🏼

[@VuNguyen-qw8st]

you funny thanks BOb

[@GXBOB]

A dit me may.

[@crxbb9506]

I'm just here for the comments you make while you work. Do you have a bumper sticker on you car that says "If you can't figure that out you should be calling your little sister..."?

[@GXBOB]

I don't know why but for some reason i'm picturing you having a smokin hot sister.

[@briangrayson6266]

3:15 Hits subscribe

[@GXBOB]

You’re way too easy brian. 🙏

[@a_papa_robot]

The commentary lol

[@GXBOB]

Having no friends will do that to a person.

[@davidlaraia2924]

I didn’t know you knew my sister

[@GXBOB]

Your last name does sound familiar

[@j8opoco]

funniest ever!

[@GXBOB]

Whats funnier is i was trying my hardest to be serious.

[@mdoneg]

You are the best! Holy sh*t balls! You made my night listening to you talk about your ex-wife like that and my sister.

[@GXBOB]

I can always appreciate a fellow man that can relate.

[@t7e0c3h]

pos torque wrench with snap on 3/8 - 1/2” adapter 🤣🤣🤣

[@GXBOB]

Thats because i was saving my Harbor Freight 3/8-1/2 adapter for a more important job.

[@t7e0c3h]

@@GXBOB haha nice, ima hopefully remove my rusted pos hitch and replace it with this curt, thanks for the vid hopefully my pos snapon stuff is up to the task against the rust

[@GXBOB]

@@t7e0c3h Some weeks ago i was watching this dude do a comparison on 5 or 6 torque wrenches, there were Harbor Freight's Icon, Snap On, SK, and some other Taiwan brands. You'd be surprised. I sure was.

[@billwilliams4534]

Come on man, swear more... be a man!! ... not an "Aimee Mann" ... know what I mean? nudge nudge, wink wink ...

[@GXBOB]

You’re that classmate i had in high school that kept making experiment with drugs, alcohol, and beastiality.