What is Triangle Steel Bracket on 2024 Toyota RAV4 in Way of Hitch Install

Question:

I was installing my hitch and all was going fine as per the instructions until lifting it up to attach it to the frame. On the passenger side there is a triangular steel bracket attached undersurface of the frame which prevents the hitch from lining up with the weld nuts. I assume this is there incase I ever need to be pulled out of a ditch or something. I’m not sure what to do about this.

asked by: Tim T

Expert Reply:

Hey Tim, you'll need to remove that and once it's gone the hitch # 36675 will install easily.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Tim T.

4/16/2024

So I got on a Rav 4 forum to learn about this. Some people said it was a tie down bracket for transporting and others said it was a contact point for towing. Either way, it was easily removed and I was able to mount the hitch just fine once it was off.

Jameson C.

4/16/2024

@TimT Good to know! How did you remove it?

Tim T.

4/16/2024

@JamesonC just two bolts attached it to the under surface of the frame. Took it off and put the bolts back into the weld nuts to keep water out as much as possible.