Recommended Weight Distribution System for 2019 Toyota 4Runner

Updated 02/26/2019 | Published 02/24/2019

Products Featured in This Question

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(2605)

$21.64

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3807)

$19.92

Question:

We are considering purchasing a 2019 Toyota 4Runner and we have a travel trailer that weighs around 3500 lbs loaded. The 4Runner is rated to tow 5000lbs. Some say the hitch receiver is not designed for a weight distributing hitch while some say it is. Have y’all had any experience with this? We really like the 4Runner but I want to make sure this is doable and safe before we buy it. I currently tow with a Tundra but would also like to have the ability with the 4Runner as well. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner comes with a factory installed trailer hitch receiver and wiring. There is no information in the owners manual considering weight distribution system use but it does state to distribute the tongue weight as you can see in the attached photo of that owners manual.

I recommend using a system that within the 9-11% distributed tongue weight of the trailer as outlined in the owners manual with the hitch receiver rated for 5,000 lbs towing capacity. This would put your tongue weight at 550 lbs, but you also need to account for any cargo behind the rear axle of your vehicle when determining the best weight distribution system as this is part of the total tongue weight of the WD system. My recommendation is the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW # RP66083 or the round bar # RP66087 you asked the question from. The difference between these is simply ground clearance at the hitch. These systems are rated for total tongue weight between 400 and 800 lbs. I've attached an article to help further.

You will need hitch ball # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch diameter ball or # A-90 for a 2 inch diameter ball whichever matches your trailer coupler.

expert reply by: Jason S