What Do I Need To Tow 1,800 lb Pop Up Camper With 2014 Honda Odyssey

Question:

Do I need a transmission cooler? If yes, recommendations?

asked by: John

Helpful Expert Reply:

First you will need Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75270. This hitch has a maximum tongue weight rating up to 675 lbs and gross trailer weight rating up to 4,500 lbs. If the towing capacity in your Odyssey owner's manual is lower that the capacity of this hitch, tow according to the weight limits in your manual.

Some models of the Odyssey have plastic panel covering the driver side frame. Remove this panel to install the hitch and leave the panel off or trim it to fit and reattach. There is no drilling required for installation.

Next, you will need 4-way Flat Trailer Connector # 118521. The purpose of this item is to control and allow the basic hookup of the three lighting functions (running, turn, and brake lights) plus one pin is provided for a ground wire. Most standard light duty trailers will use a 4-pole flat connector. This custom-fit T-One connector plugs into your Honda Odyssey's wiring harness, which is located behind the driver side trim panel. You may have to remove the tail light assemblies to access this harness. Once installation is complete, the 4-way flat connector will be stowed beneath your Honda Odyssey, near the trailer hitch. A mounting bracket # 18144 may be needed to keep the connector secure.

The etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches 7,500 lbs # 989900 is an excellent product to consider. It includes two ball mounts, two hitch balls and pin & clips. If your hitch or trailer has a different towing capacity, if you contact me back, I can make tailored recommendations according to those specifications.

If you are towing a trailer with electric brakes, the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller 7-Way # ETBC7 will work with your Honda Odyssey. This kit includes everything you need to install an electric trailer brake controller and 7-way connector.

If you need a brake controller, Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 is one most popular items. This proportional brake controller will activate your trailer brakes in a proportion to your vehicle's braking action. It'll automatically adjust your trailer's braking based on the deceleration of the tow vehicle and it activates immediately so there's no pausing like with your time delay brake controllers. It does have an automatic leveling ability because there's an internal sensor on the inside which will detect deceleration even if the controller is not mounted flat.

If you need an air conditioner without a heat pump, the Advent Air Command Rooftop RV Air Conditioner # ACM135C prides itself on allowing less turbulence and noise than other AC models. It includes a wall-mount thermostat, remote, and vent.

expert reply by: Timothy G

John

5/22/2018

Do I need a transmission cooler? If yes, recommendations?

Timothy G.

5/23/2018

It is never a bad thing to add a supplemental cooler to your vehicle when towing. You cannot cool your transmission fluid too much.One of our most popular fan/cooler combinations is the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets, # D13502. This fan measures 11" Wide x 7-1/4" tall x 7/8" deep. if you have enough room to mount this cooler, this would be a great option for you. The ideal location for a transmission cooler is where it can get the maximum airflow in front of the AC condenser. If there isn't room there the next best location is between the condenser and the radiator and the last place is behind the radiator. The cooler installs on the transmission return line. I checked a manual for the 2014 Honda Odyssey and it did mention install an additional ATF (automatic transmission fluid) cooler to help prevent the transmission from overheating, and damaging.