Tow Package And Bed Hitch Extender Question

hey guys,

This may be a silly question but I am totally new to trucks in general. I plan on using a bed hitch extender to transport my kayak in the bed of the truck with the tailgate down. I'd rather not lift it over my head and do a rack system being that my short ass is 5'5 and the kayak weighs 70 lbs. But anyway, do I need the tow package in order to be able to use the bed hitch extender? I know I will never own a boat or tow anything so I could do without the tow package.

thanks

 

No. All you need is a hitch. The boards in mine are only when I carry both yaks and want to clear the wheel wells so they sit flat.

But if you are ordering a vehicle, the tow package is one of the best value add ons there is.

Mine was used, base, 4 banger 2wd. Just what I wanted. So I just added a hitch and called it a day.

 

Technically you don't... If you don't get the tow package, you will need to buy an aftermarket rear bumper with a receiver hitch to accept the bed hitch extender.

Edit: you could just buy a receiver too

 

You won't have a hitch receiver to hook to without the tow package, you can get one added aftermarket of course but why buy a vehicle like a truck without the tow package? It's arguably one of the best bang for buck options you can purchase on this truck and will be worth its weight in gold (well maybe not gold) if and when you decide to sell.

 

The tow package does include the oil cooler and automatic transmission cooler (if so equipped), a larger alternator and some other grubbins that are not bad to have, but that's just me. That said, you can get a inexpensive hitch and bolt it in place just to get your kayak on.

 

The rear bumper is not required. Just need the receiver.

 

Whats choo talkin 'bout Willis?

 

that's no fun...

 

Well on that I totally agree.

 

Good morning, I have a 2017 SR5 double cab Tacoma short bed. I’d like to get a bed extender for those occasional trips to Lowes for lumber. I’ve been looking at the following type bed extenders:

https://www.pickupspecialties.com/Extend_a_truck/extend_a_truck_load_support.htm

Can anyone recommend a particular brand which they have used on their Tacoma? I’m assuming that 350 lb. capacity would work because I don’t want it so heavy that it is a project to put in the hitch receiver. Thanks in advance for your help.

 

I don't know if this is allowed here but I tried to post this on the deals forum and I wasn't allowed since my account is less than 30 days old. Looks like a good price for a good unit but only at SOME Lowes locations with the 24.50 price. There are 2 stores at my location with this price. I haven't picked mine up yet but the picture appears to show the heavier duty one with the angled braces at the crossbar.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Erickson-The-Big-Bed-Tail-Gate-Extender/1000116129

 

If anyone is interested. Picked it up and assembled it. I think it is worth 24.50. It will also fold up to make transporting and storing simple.

 

That's a great price.... If I click on your link, my area Lowe's show it at $69.98.

 

That is why I mentioned "SOME" Lowes. Try and select a different store and if it is in stock at that store you may see that low price.