2001 Toyota Highlander Owners Manual - Page 202

'01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106) HITCHES TRAILER BALL Follow these easy steps to properly determine the correct trailer ball for your application: 1. Determine the correct trailer ball size for the trailer coupler. Most couplers are stamped with the required trailer ball size. The sizes you will most likely find stamped on the coupler are: Trailer class III 1 2 3 4 Trailer ball load rating Ball diameter Shank length Shank diameter D If you wish to install a trailer hitch, you should consult with your Toyota dealer. D Use only a hitch recommended by the hitch manufacturer and the one which conforms to the total trailer weight requirement. D The hitch must be bolted securely to the vehicle frame and installed according to the hitch manufacturer's instructions. Typical trailer ball size 2-5/16 in. 2 in. 1-7/8 in. D The hitch ball and king pin should have a light coat of grease. II I D Toyota recommends removing the trailer hitch whenever you are not towing a trailer to reduce the possibility of additional damage caused by the hitch if your vehicle is struck from behind. After removing the hitch, seal any mounting holes in the vehicle body to prevent entry of pollutants such as exhaust fumes, dirt, water, etc. 2. Select the appropriate trailer ball to match or exceed the gross trailer weight rating of the trailer. The trailer ball load rating should be printed on the top of the ball. 3. When mounted in the ball mount, the threaded ball shank must protrude beyond the bottom of the lock washer and nut at least 2 threads. The trailer ball shank must be matched to the ball mount hole diameter size. NOTICE Do not use axle−mounted hitches as they can cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels or tires. 202 2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)