Hitch mount storage

Probably a stupid question but does anyone have any clever ideas for storing the hitch mount and ball when not in use?

I used to have all that in a tub that was strapped down in the back but now I am looking to clear the floor space back there. Thought about putting it under the driver seat but worry about all the seat electronics there.

I have most everything else moved to my molle panels and side bin but this one is stumping me. I use it quite a bit in the summer so I don't want to bury it and hopefully can reach it without climbing in. Things are stupid heavy so I want it secure.

 

Not at all stupid and agreed an issue if you remove it frequently. Well if you're pedantic with these sorts of things the ball should remain greased and you don't want that on the loose anywhere in a vehicle. And same for the 2" tongue if you shim it out and then grease the vehicle receiver to assure it seats without a struggle. i kept tossing my greased hitches in a cardboard box which keeps the thing from rolling around but that's a rather underwhelming solution. I was in the process of building a wooden case conforming to the irregular shape but figured I'd just square it up and use the extra room to store the hitch pin/clip, grease tube, and 7-to-4 wire adapter cable so that all doesn't go off in different directions.

 

Can you get a locking hitch pin and just leave it in semi-permanently? Other than that I'm not sure, shove it under one of the front seats maybe.

 

I had something like this for my hitch on my old Explorer.....I will be buying an adjustable hitch I think my 4R this week or next. Depending on size something like this may work. Also check out etrailer.com they have a lot of good accessories.

CE Smith Trailer 27481 Draw Bar Bag, 15" x 4" x 6"- Replacement Parts and Accessories for Your Ski Boat, Fishing Boat or Sailboat Trailer : Boating Equipment : Sports & Outdoors (amazon.com)

 

At the moment, I have it sitting in a Tupperware container that is pretty much a perfect fit for the bar and some accessories. The plan was to slide it under the driver seat, and it fits pretty well, but I don't want it sliding and smashing up all the connectors under there. Maybe there is some way to secure it down

I like the bag idea but wouldn't know what to do with it then. And I don't want to leave it attached, more due to running my leg into it and rusting up.

Lot of weight for the molle panel so I won't mount it anywhere there. Maybe can somehow strap it to the rear tie-down d-ring

 

You might try using these. Bolt 'em down with the 2 rear bolts of the front seat rails, and strap the receiver to them.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GZQRR2...7885-4a2c-a310-48f84ae8b686&s=automotive&th=1

For a really spendy option:
https://desertdoesit.com/products/front-multi-mount-panel

 

It may fit under the second row seats (on a non third row model). There's kind of a natural void where the bottoms fold up. If grease is an issue put it in a plastic grocery bag.

I haven't tried fitment but I've had a shotgun and a folding shovel under the seat (not together, at different times) so I think a hitch turned sideways should also fit... It'll be tight, for sure, though.

Try it?

 

I have the rhinohitch so that crap is in the hitch or at home.

That damn thing is a tank.

 

It fits and the seat still latches down. Also can't slide forward in a crash because the seat bottom mounts keep it contained.

 

I will certainly give that a go. Looks like maybe enough room for the connectors I have too.

 

Can't blame you at all for wanting to remove it when not in use. I have about destroyed my shins a couple times. Hurts like HELL!!
All I ever pull is my utility trailer with my 4 Wheeler. That is where my hitch lives.

 

I have two trailers with different size tires so ended up having two drop bars. One lives with that trailer. I would do the same with both but I like to have something with me all the time. A couple days ago it found use for pulling a large downed tree out of the way ... very useful for dropping a strap over quick

 

Very true...understood. I cannot say I have never used mine for that sort of thing. Works well with the snatch strap that I keep in the Runner.

 

To be honest, I have never owned a snatch strap in all my years of owning a 4runner. Was actually just reading about them today and how you shouldn't be using them over the ball mount. I guess I have been really bad as I usually used a length of braided marine rope to pull everything out ... usually hooked over the ball.

I don't do a lot of off-road anymore as I can't afford the fixes but it probably is time to invest in a good strap ... and snatch block .. and d-rings ... and, and ....

I tried the space under the seat and there is plenty of room. I am not sure it would stay put though. I could easily reach under and slide it out. Might be a way to snug it up a bit.

 

I've never had a snatch strap slip off or fail. Just gotta be smart!.

 

I tow often so mine is locked in the receiver at all times. The ball has "ball grease" on it and it's covered with a "doggy tennis ball" so it doesn't transfer to my clothes.
Bumping it with my shins doesn't happen very often but , a few choice words and I move on. I guess it comes from riding dirt bikes for so many years.