Will Load Extender Match the Truckbed Height of 2016 Toyota Tacoma With Factory Hitch?

Question:

I need to know if the height will match my tailgate height on a 2016 Tacoma with factory installed hitch. I tried an Erikson extender and , at the lowest setting, it was two inches too high. I'm trying to match the bed. I compared my hitch with an after market receiver. The aftermarket was two inches lower than one that is part of a factory installed tow package.

asked by: Mike H

Expert Reply:

The lowest setting of the Erikson Big Bed Load Extender # EM07600 is 18" in height while the lowest setting of the Yakima LongArm Truck Bed Load Extender # Y01149 is measured at 17" high. That will still bring you at an inch higher than your truck bed.

If you're carrying a kayak, you can put down some foam blocks like Malone RackPads # MPG314 to lift the kayak up on your truck bed and you can reuse the blocks when you store your kayak in your garage or on the ground. The blocks are 3-1/2" so they would pair best with the Erickson in the highest setting.

There are also hitch adapters like # RM-077-4 that give you a rise/drop, but you'd have to deal with the extra 10" extension as well as figure out the 2" rise or 4" drop along with your load extender. It's not the most elegant solution, but it's an option especially with your Tacoma factory hitch which is notorious for not playing well with other aftermarket accessories.

expert reply by: Evangeline M