Hitch cover question

Somewhat of a silly and frivolous question. I want to throw an American Flag hitch cover on my ‘21 ORP.

However the ones I’ve tried so far do not sit flush in the receiver and would rattle around if left in. I have had to return them. Like this for example:

$33 Xprite Aluminum Trailer Hitch Cover, Heavy Duty 2" Tow Hitch Covers, USA American U.S. Flag Metal Emblem Guard, Trailer Hitch Accessories for Pickup Trucks Cars SUV - Black

Xprite Aluminum Trailer Hitch Cover, Heavy Duty 2" Inch Tow Rear Receivers Plug Covers, USA American U.S. Flag Metal Emblem Guard for Pickup Trucks Cars SUV - Black



I realize I could start drilling into the receiver, but would prefer not to. Does anybody know of any good brands or companies for this type of thing that fit well with Toyota?

Thanks.

 

Almost anything you get metal with rattle.

Nothing to do with Toyota its just metal on metal. Also the cover is light and not heavy like a normal hitch so it will probably more around more.

You can try wrapping it in tape or something to stop the metal and metal noise.

 

Yeah I suppose I could wrap it, that’s true.

I guess I was curious as to any companies that had this type of item I am seeking with the factory drilled pin-holes set differently as to properly fit the receiver flush. I have to imagine that other receivers fit these products better. Maybe I am wrong though.

 

The 4Runner has a short receiver, and the holes seem to hold a ball mount further out than normal.

I would customize the insert if anything in order to not weaken the receiver. Or, use tape or some sort of wedge like @Dillusion mentioned.

 

This might help for the rattle

Anti-Rattle Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches - 3-1/2" Span
Item # 63232

(
Retail:$54.99
Our Price: $40.99
You Save: 25%
Orders above $50 qualify for FREE SHIPPING
Estimated delivery to New Jersey

 

Well look at that. Have you used it?

 

Here’s what I got……. Have to try real hard to make it rattle.

 

Two of of the three bushings in this kit

3 Pack - 2 Inch Hitch Receiver Silencer Pad for Adjustable Ball Mounts - Reduce Rattle, Eliminate Noise and Provide Cushion Between receivers and Tow hitches - Fits Any 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver

$15 Mission Automotive 3 Pack Silencer Pads for 2" Ball Mounts - Reduce Rattle and Noise Between Receivers and Tow Hitches - Fits Any Trailer Hitch Receiver

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V57Z6NP onto…..

Carr 183032 HD Hitch Step

$82 Carr's 183032 HD Hitch Step

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DI2Y9D6

Step folds up and down when needed/not needed.

just push hard against hitch when pushing pin in and the rubber cushion combined with tight fit keeps it from rattling almost completely.

 

Me, I'd would drill a hole using a #7 or 13/64th bit in the side to the receiver - then use a 1/4 20 tap. Would then screw in a short bolt to snug up the slack. Done.

 

No i just found it on the etrailer web site

 

Well jeez, that kinda seems complicated compared to tape lol. Even if we were just talking about mild steel.

Those rubber isolators seem to be the simplest way to go. The spring loaded pin is kinda neat too.

I doubt you’ll find a high quality, perfectly clearanced, chinese made american flag hitch cover.

 

Lol finding an American made one is ideal obviously.

Now that I see the spring loaded pin and rubber isolator options, I’m gonna seek out an American made company for the product.

The obvious irony of owning a Japanese vehicle isn’t lost on me…

 

Eh, Japan is on the “they cool”list.

That said, it seems like etsy tends to have a lot of crafted stuff. That could be a cool place to check out and maybe find an an american personal/individual business to support.

Edit: oh yeah, the chinese thing was half in jest. I think anything that goes into a hitch will not be perfectly tight, probably by design. I have a factor 55 hitch shackle that is us made and expensive, and it is still slightly smaller that the receiver.

 

I went to the local Foam & Fabric store and bought some dense black foam for about $2.00, and made my own.
Works perfectly. I only did it for asthetics though to fill the gap. Back there, I could not hear it rattle even without the spacer.

 

I immediately found several Flag Hitch Covers on Etsy that are made in America. I verified with the sellers via email. Good recommendation.

 

I got this to keep my ball hitch from rattling when my trailer wasn't hooked up:

$11 MaxxHaul 50023 Hitch Tightener Anti Rattle Stabilizer for 1.25" to 2" Hitches Reduce Movement On Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Bike Rack

https://www.amazon.com/MaxxHaul-500...gid=pla-693753947949&ref=&adgrpid=68750937003

If you found a flag cover with a 2" insert (that sticks out far enough) that you liked to keep on the truck, I don't see why this wouldn't work for that.

 

I ordered the rubber isolators for now to see how they fair. I put your recommendation in my basket though. They are both very cheap. Thanks man.

 

I own many of these for our RV. I have a front hitch that I use a riser on, so 2 up front and I use one in the back from my dirt bike carrier, which is HEAVY!! These things are great!

 

Tape.