What is Included in Tow Package on a 2008 Toyota Highlander

Question:

Hi, I have a question about what is actually included in a towing package. I have a V6 2008 Highlander which, it appears, has a 5000 lb towing capacity with the tow package. What I am unclear about is what is all included with the tow package. I had a brake controller installed and had a few people suggest I should add a transmission cooler, but I cant find anything about a transmission cooler on-line. Any thoughts? Also, I have a Valley Hitch 2 inch on which is stated do not use with a weight distributing hitch. The trailer owners forum repeatedly suggests the use of a weight distribution hitch, so I dont know if I should get rid of my existing hitch and , if so,what I should get in its place to accommodate a weight distributing hitch.

asked by: James K

Expert Reply:

The features and equipment that constitute an auto maker's OEM "tow package" can vary by vehicle manufacturer, vehicle model and model year. Auto makers may change the elements of a "tow package" for any number of reasons. The best way to determine exactly what your particular Highlander's equipment and capacities are is to contact your local dealership with the VIN number. They can then determine exactly how it is equipped.

If you have need for a weight distribution system for your trailer, you will need to select a new hitch that is specifically rated for such applications. Not all hitches are so rated. We offer the Draw-Tite Hitch # 75726 which is a 2-inch Class III unit that can be used with weight distribution. The linked article will help you determine if such a system is necessary in your application and also how to select a system tuned properly for your trailer.

The transmission cooler supplied with a typical tow package may not offer sufficient capacity for some towing applications so an aftermarket supplemental cooler is a good idea. Coolers are not vehicle-specific so you can use the largest one that will fit in the space available.

I suggest one of the following Class III transmission coolers. Derale Transmission Cooler, part # D13503, is a universal-fit design that measures 11W x 8-3/4H. Derale also offers a slightly smaller Class III cooler, part # D13502, which measures 11W x 7-1/4H. Both coolers are designed for Toyota Highlanders with late-model, electronic overdrive transmissions. You will need to measure the space in front of your radiator to determine which of these two coolers will be the best fit. I have attached videos on both of these products, as well as an installation video for part # D13503. For maximum cooling, you might consider a high-efficiency Class IV transmission cooler, such as the Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ NPT Inlets, part # D13613. Note that this product is thicker than the other two coolers recommended (1-1/4 inch versus 7/8 inch).