my 1999 4runner limited with factory hitch. the bottom of
the hitch crossmember is now 100% 'structural rust'. big chunks
falling off every time I close the hatch


no worries, just posting up that age, and snowbank crashing for
the lifetime of a 4runner in New England, will surely turn parts to dust

 

The hitch on my 98 limited was rusted clear through on the bottom as well. I think it was the factory One. Truck started off in New York but made its way over to the pnw. Found a good used one on cl to replace it. I'm guessing a few people have this problem. I only noticed it by chance cause it looked fine from the top.