Fitting a Geardeck 17 to a 2008 Toyota Highlander with a 2 inch Curt Hitch

Question:

I wanted to know if the Geardeck 17 will be able to work on a 2008 Toyota Highlander as Im not sure of the distance from the bumper to the cargo box as I wasnt sure if it is too close to the heat from the exhaust pipe. Also, I wasnt sure if turning lights and a license plate mounting kit is included or if it needs to be purchased separately.

asked by: Jerold Y

Helpful Expert Reply:

The GearDeck 17, part # H00604 is compatible with a 2008 Toyota Highlander. You'll want to use a hitch like the Curt Custom Fit Class III 2 Inch Receiver, part # 13534.

The distance from the hitch pin hole to the rear of the Gear Deck 17 is about 14 inches. The distance from the hitch pin hole on the Curt Custom Fit Class III to the bumper is 3 inches, meaning your GearDeck 17 will sit 11 inches away from the vehicle. Generally we recommend at least 6 inches to avoid damage from exhaust heat and you'll be well past that distance and OK to use the carrier.

The GearDeck 17 does include an integrated license plate mount, with parts for moving your license plate to the carrier.

At 48 inches wide, you're unlikely to cover your tail lights, but it does include all the wiring and LED lights for the kit. It will plug into your four-way trailer connector. If you don't have a factory package and need to add one, Curt's T_Connector kit, part # C53217 will be a great addition. I've inlcuded a video of this being installed so you can see what the process looks like.

I've included a video of the Curt hitch being installed on a 2008 Toyota Highlander so you can see the dimensions and positioning of things in relation to the hitch install.

expert reply by: Jacob W