Hitch, Weight Distribution, Wiring, Transmission and Power Steering Cooler for 2003 Honda Odyssey  

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For your 2003 Honda Odyssey in order to have a connector that will provide a maintenance charge to the trailer battery you will first need to install a 4-Way, # 118336. Then you will need to install a 7-Way using installation kit # ETBC7. This kit comes with all the parts you will need to add the 7-Way and make it able to provide a 12 volt circuit for the trailer. If the trailer has electric brakes then you will also need a brake controller. I recommend the P2 # 90885 because it's easy to set up and use and it is reliable.

I checked the owner's manual for your 2003 Odyssey and it is rated for a maximum of 3,500 pounds if there are only 2 people in the van and the van is equipped with a transmission cooler and a power steering cooler. The capacity starts to drop with more people in the van. Take a look at page 275 in the manual for more information.

Also in the manual it states that if the trailer weighs more than 1,850 pounds you will need to use a weight distribution system. To choose a weight distribution system you will need to go by the total tongue weight of the set up. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and ready to tow, and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

When using weight distribution you will not need to use rear helper springs. If the vehicle maxes out a 3,500 pounds and 350 pounds tongue weight then that is the limit you need to go by even if the weight distribution system is rated higher. I recommend Fastway system # FA92-00-0600 rated for 250 to 600 pounds tongue weight.

This system has built in sway control, comes with a shank, and the trunnion style bars have better ground clearance than round bars. You will just need to add a ball: # EQ91-00-6080 for a 2 inch ball or # EQ91-00-6100 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.

For a trailer hitch that is rated for use with weight distribution and has the capacity you are looking for I recommend # 75270.

For a transmission cooler for your van the most popular option is # D13503. There are no special fittings required to install the cooler and this kit comes with everything you will need.

For a power steering cooler # D13212 is a popular option and it won't take up a lot of space. I have included some helpful links showing example installations of the various products listed above that will help with installations on your van.

expert reply by: Michael H

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