Towing Capacity and Recommended Weight Distribution System for 2008 Toyota 4Runner

Question:

I am looking to purchase a hybrid trailer to pull with my 2008 Toyota 4Runner 6cyl and am looking for the max gross trailer weight I can pull, and the best weight distribution system to use with it. The tow limit on it according to the manufacturer is 5000lbs, but the hitch assembly is rated to 600lbs tongue weight and 6000lbs gross tow weight. It also says that with weight distribution the limits are 7300lbs max gross weight, 730lbs tongue wt. Can you help guide me on on which of your weight dist. packages to get, and how much I can realistically tow with it? THank you! :-

asked by: Steve R

Expert Reply:

Any towing system's capacity will be limited by the capacity of its lowest rated component, whether it be the hitch or the vehicle itself. Since Nissan states that the maximum towing capacity of the 4Runner is 5000 lbs, that's the maximum weight you'll be limited to, regardless of the hitch capacity or what the capacity of the hitch would be if you used weight distribution.

To choose a weight distribution system, you'll need to first determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer. To that figure, add the weight of any gear stowed in the cargo area of the 4Runner behind the rear axle. I've linked to an FAQ article that explains how to do this. These combined figures comprise the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your set-up. The TTW of your trailer should fall as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the weight distribution system you choose.

So for instance, if the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight (including the cooler in the cargo area of the 4Runner) of your trailer is about 450 lbs, I'd recommend going with the # RP66558 Reese Steadi-Flex weight distribution system. This weight distribution kit is rated for trailers with tongue weights ranging from 400-600 lbs, which should be perfect for any hybrid travel trailer your 4Runner is capable of towing. The system offers proven weight distribution performance, but also resists trailer sway caused by crosswinds and oncoming tractor trailers.

For severe sway, go with the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System, part # RP66082. Like the other system I mentioned, the Strait-Line provides proven weight distribution performance for trailers with tongue weights ranging from 200-600 lbs. However, instead of resisting trailer sway, the Strait-Line prevents sway from occurring in the first place.

Both systems include the weight distributing shank, but the properly sided trailer ball is sold separately. With the Steadi-Flex use part # 63845 for a 2 inch ball or part # 63847 for a 2-5/16 inch. For the Strait-Line use part # A-90 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.