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2013 - 2018 Toyota Avalon
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2012 - 2017 Toyota Camry
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DRAW-TITE Class 2 trailer hitches are the perfect mix of style and stability for those times when youre working on a home project or heading out on an adventure. This DRAW-TITE Class 2 receiver hitch is rated for up to 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight (GTW) and up to 300 lbs. tongue weight (TW). No weight distribution kits can be used on this specific trailer hitch. DRAW-TITE hitches are designed to provide top towing performance, with solid-all-welded construction and a black powder coat finish to resist rust and corrosion. The Class 2 trailer hitch has a 1-1/4 inch square receiver tube opening so you can easily attach accessories like a bike rack or cargo carrier, or a utility trailer. Includes all the mounting hardware needed for installation and are backed by a nationwide lifetime limited warranty. DRAW-TITE trailer hitches are tested to exceed V-5 and SAE J684 standards. DRAW-TITE: North Americas Favorite Hitch.
| BRAND: | DRAW-TITE |
| PART NUMBER: | 36540 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 35 LBS |
| GROSS TOWING WEIGHT: | 3,500 LBS. |
| GROSS TONGUE WEIGHT: | 300 LBS. |
| RECEIVER SIZE: | 1.25 IN. |
| HITCH CLASS: | II |
| DRILLING REQUIRED: | YES |
| MOUNTING HARDWARE INCLUDED: | YES |
| ATTACHMENT LOCATION: | REAR |
| HITCH VISIBILITY: | VISIBLE |
| CROSS-TUBE TYPE: | SQUARE TUBE |
| BALL MOUNT INCLUDED: | NO |
| COLOR: | BLACK |
| FINISH: | BLACK POWDER COAT OVER E-COAT |
| MATERIAL: | STEEL |
| MOUNTING LOCATION: | VEHICLE FRAME |
| MOUNTING TYPE: | BOLT-ON |
Draw-Tite has designed custom-fit trailer hitches since 1946 and is one of North America's most widely fitted hitch brands. Receiver hitches use solid all-welded construction and low-profile designs that follow modern vehicle contours, install with minimal bumper cutting or drilling, meet or exceed V5 CSA and SAE J684 standards, and carry a limited lifetime warranty.
Draw-Tite has been leading custom-fit trailer hitch design and engineering since its founding in 1946, and it remains one of the most widely fitted hitch brands in North America. The company's stated approach is straightforward: every hitch is tested rigorously so that it performs well beyond published industry standards, a philosophy it markets as Tested Tough. It sits within the Horizon Global towing group alongside Reese, Fulton, Bulldog, Tekonsha, Bargman and Wesbar.
Custom fit is the defining characteristic. Rather than adapting a universal design, Draw-Tite engineers a trailer hitch for a specific make, model and model year, so it bolts to existing frame locations with minimal bumper cutting or drilling. Low-profile designs follow the rear contours and aerodynamic styling of modern vehicles, which matters more than it once did now that rear fascias are shaped and sensor-equipped. Construction is solid all-welded steel for maximum strength, and every hitch meets or exceeds V5 CSA and SAE J684 standards and is backed by a nationwide limited lifetime warranty.
The range spans receiver sizes and classes to suit different loads, from 1-1/4 inch receivers for bike racks, cargo carriers and light trailers up through 2 inch receivers for heavier towing. Front mount hitches add a receiver at the front of the vehicle for winch mounts, snow plows, spare carriers and precise trailer positioning.
The Hidden Hitch series takes concealment further by mounting behind the vehicle's rear fascia, so the vehicle keeps its factory appearance until a removable receiver is fitted. Each is custom designed per make and model for a no-drill installation that does not compromise ground clearance, rated for up to 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight and 350 pounds tongue weight. Matching plug-and-play wiring completes the towing system.
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2 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 - 2018 | Toyota Avalon | Class 2 Trailer Hitch: 3500 lbs 300/3,500 lbs. Weight Carrying (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) Drilling Required Install Time is 40 minutes |
| 2012 - 2017 | Toyota Camry | Class 2 Trailer Hitch: 3500 lbs 300/3,500 lbs. Weight Carrying (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) Drilling Required Install Time is 40 minutes |
The Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Square Receiver, Black for Select Toyota Avalon, Toyota Camry 36540 (Part #DT36540) fits 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon models. The 2018 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Square Receiver, Black for Select Toyota Avalon, Toyota Camry 36540 (Part #DT36540) is designed to fit the 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon.
The Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Square Receiver, Black for Select Toyota Avalon, Toyota Camry 36540 (Part #DT36540) fits the following vehicles: 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon; 2012-2017 Toyota Camry. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The Draw-tite Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Square Receiver, Black for Select Toyota Avalon, Toyota Camry 36540 (Part #DT36540) Drilling is required for installation. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, part number 36540 is designed to fit both Toyota Camry and Toyota Avalon. However, the installation procedure differs between the two models. Camry installation requires drilling two ½" pilot holes and then a 1" hole in the frame rail. Avalon installation requires drilling one ¼" pilot hole and then a 1" hole. Both models also have different exhaust configurations and heat shield locations that affect the installation process.
Yes, hitch 36540 can be installed on a Toyota Camry Hybrid, but with a modification on the passenger side. Instead of drilling a hole in the frame, you remove the rearmost bolt from the battery bracket attached to the frame and attach the hitch using the supplied M8 x 40mm hex bolt. Drilling is still required on the driver's side of the vehicle. The same procedure applies to Avalon Hybrid models.
For Camry installation, you will need: wrenches in 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, and 11/16" sizes; drill bits in ½" and 1" sizes; a utility knife; and lubricant or soapy water. A torque wrench is required to tighten fasteners to specification. For Avalon installation, you will also need a 6" socket extension and an additional ¼" drill bit, plus straps or bungee cords to support the exhaust.
For Camry: Remove the appearance panel if it covers the driver's side frame rails. You may need to trim or remove part of the panel; obtain vehicle owner approval before trimming. For Avalon: Remove the appearance panel completely and return it to the owner. Some newer model vehicles may not require trimming. If the Camry panel is not reinstalled, there will be a ¾" to 1" gap between the hitch and fascia.
Yes, lowering the exhaust is required for both Camry and Avalon installations. For Camry: Remove two bolts at the exhaust hanger bracket and remove the rubber isolator on the forward side of the exhaust. For Avalon: Remove two bolts at the end panel and two bolts on the frame rail exhaust hanger bracket on each side. Support the exhaust with straps or bungee cords to prevent damage. Spraying lubricant or soapy water on the metal hanger rod and rubber isolator helps with removal.
Yes, the heat shield must be removed before raising the hitch into position. After drilling the frame rail hole and marking the heat shield for the 7/16" carriage bolt, the heat shield is reinstalled later in the process using M6 bolts as needed.
Yes, drilling is required on both sides of the Camry frame rail. You must drill a ½" pilot hole on both sides, then lower the hitch and drill a 1" hole in the frame rail on both sides. You will also drill the heat shield for the 7/16" carriage bolt. Drilling is permanent and cannot be avoided unless the vehicle is a Hybrid model, in which case drilling is still required on the driver's side only.
For Avalon installation, drill a ¼" pilot hole on both sides first, then lower the hitch and drill a 1" hole in the frame rail on both sides. You will also drill the heat shield for the 7/16" carriage bolt. Additionally, drill a ½" to ¾" hole for the forward rubber isolator bracket location.
Tighten all M10 CL8.8 hex bolts to 38 Lb.-Ft. (52 N·M) using a torque wrench. This applies to both Camry and Avalon installations.
Tighten all 7/16" GR5 carriage bolts to 50 Lb.-Ft. (68 N·M) using a torque wrench. This applies to both Camry and Avalon installations.
Tighten the M8 CL10.9 hex bolt to 27 Lb.-Ft. (37 N·M) using a torque wrench. This bolt is used on Hybrid models to attach the hitch to the battery bracket on the passenger side.
The maximum gross trailer weight is 3500 lbs (1589 kg) and the maximum tongue weight is 300 lbs (136 kg). However, do not exceed the lower of the towing vehicle manufacturer's rating or these specifications.
The fastener kit (36540F for Camry or 36514F for Avalon) includes: 4 M10 x 1.25 x 40 CL8.8 hex bolts, 2 7/16-14 x 1.5 GR5 carriage bolts, 2 7/16-14 hex nuts, 5 3/8" conical washers, 2 7/16" conical washers, 1 M8-1.25 x 50 CL10.9 hex bolt, 2 0.915 x 3.000 x 10GA spacers, and 2 M6 x 1.0 x 40 hex bolts.
No, the drawbar is not included. The drawbar kit (part number 36071) is sold separately. The hitch must be used in the RISE position only.
Observe safety precautions when working beneath a vehicle and wear eye protection. Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch. If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent entry of water and exhaust fumes. A hitch or ball that has been damaged should be removed and replaced.
Check the hitch frequently, making sure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened. Verify that all fasteners have been tightened to the required torque specifications: M10 bolts to 38 Lb.-Ft. (52 N·M), 7/16" carriage bolts to 50 Lb.-Ft. (68 N·M), and M8 bolts to 27 Lb.-Ft. (37 N·M).
Check the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened. The manual does not specify an exact interval, but recommends regular inspection.
For Camry: Raise the hitch into position and install M10 bolts on the driver's side first. Then remove the pull wire and install conical washers and nuts on the passenger side. Install the exhaust hanger bracket on the passenger side, then remove the pull wire and install conical washers and nuts on the driver's side. For Avalon: Install at least one M10 bolt on both sides, then remove the pull wire and install conical washers and nuts on both sides. Center the hitch and torque the 7/16" fasteners to specification.
The pull wire is attached to the carriage bolt and spacer and is used to thread the bolt through the bracket when raising the hitch into position. After the hitch is raised and the M10 bolts are installed, the pull wire is removed and conical washers and nuts are installed in its place.
Yes, the exhaust hanger bracket must be reinstalled. For Camry: Install the exhaust hanger bracket on the passenger side after removing the pull wire and installing conical washers and nuts. For Avalon: Remove the M10 bolts and install the exhaust hanger brackets through the forward weld nut on both sides. Bend the tab on the exhaust hanger to allow the bracket to lay flat on the hitch bracket.
For Camry: Yes, reinstall the appearance panel after drilling the frame rail holes and before raising the hitch into position. For Avalon: The appearance panel is removed and returned to the owner; it is not reinstalled as part of the hitch installation.
Yes, the heat shield must be reinstalled after the hitch is raised into position and the fasteners are installed. Reinstall the heat shield using M6 bolts as needed.
Yes, after all hitch fasteners are tightened and the heat shield is reinstalled, raise the exhaust back into position. For Camry: Reinstall the rubber isolator and bolts at the exhaust hanger bracket. For Avalon: Reinstall the rubber isolator brackets and bolts at the end panel and frame rail exhaust hanger bracket.
Yes, part 36540 fits both Toyota Camry and Avalon, but installation procedures differ. Camry requires two ½" pilot holes; Avalon requires one ¼" pilot hole. Both require a 1" frame rail hole.
Yes, drilling is required on both sides of the frame rail. Camry: drill ½" pilot holes, then 1" holes. Avalon: drill ¼" pilot holes, then 1" holes. Drilling is permanent and cannot be avoided except on Hybrid passenger side.
Wrenches: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, 11/16" (Camry); add 6" socket extension for Avalon. Drill bits: ½" and 1" (Camry); add ¼" for Avalon. Torque wrench required. Utility knife, lubricant or soapy water, and straps/bungee cords for exhaust support.
M10 CL8.8 bolts: 38 Lb.-Ft. (52 N·M). 7/16" GR5 carriage bolts: 50 Lb.-Ft. (68 N·M). M8 CL10.9 bolts (Hybrid): 27 Lb.-Ft. (37 N·M). Use a torque wrench for all fasteners.
Maximum gross trailer weight: 3500 lbs (1589 kg). Maximum tongue weight: 300 lbs (136 kg). Do not exceed the lower of the towing vehicle manufacturer's rating or these specifications.
Wear eye protection when working beneath the vehicle. Do not cut holes with a torch. If removed, plug all frame holes to prevent water and exhaust fume entry. Check fasteners and ball frequently. Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
Check all fasteners and tighten them to the required torque specifications using a torque wrench: M10 CL8.8 bolts to 38 Lb.-Ft. (52 N·M), 7/16" GR5 carriage bolts to 50 Lb.-Ft. (68 N·M), and M8 CL10.9 bolts to 27 Lb.-Ft. (37 N·M). The manual recommends checking the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball remain properly tightened.
A hitch or ball that has been damaged should be removed and replaced immediately. Do not continue to use a damaged hitch or ball for towing.
Spray lubricant or soapy water on the metal hanger rod and the rubber isolator. This helps ease removal of the rubber isolator from the muffler. Allow the lubricant to soak for a few moments before attempting removal again.
Total for 4 items:
$150.58
George
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May 22, 2023
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