Why is the Support Bracket on the 2011 Toyota Camry SE Not Reinstalled with Draw-Tite Class II Hitch

Question:

I see you do not reinstall the bumper support bracket. Why not? The hitch does not provide the same contact points that the bracket did i.e. 2 vs 3 and the frame tie in provided by the bracket is eliminated. I doubt Toyota added this bracket unnecessarily. Why eliminate it?

asked by: Russell J

Expert Reply:

The drivers side bracket is not reinstalled with the Draw-Tite Class II Trailer Hitch, # 36416, because the bracket will not fit once the trailer hitch is in position. I spoke with my contact at Draw-Tite and he says once the hitch is installed, the end plate and vehicle frame do not lose support. He said the trailer hitch ties into both end plates and the trunk pan so the support bracket is not needed.

If you would like a trailer hitch that will mount to the end plate and the vehicle frame, you could use the Curt Class II Trailer Hitch, # C12343. If you choose to install the Curt trailer hitch, keep in mind that Curts warranty requires, all non-trailer loads including such things as bike racks and cargo carriers, use a support strap. For a support strap, you can use the Curt Trailer Hitch Support Strap, # 18050.

expert reply by: John H