Weight Distribution Hitch for a 2017 Toyota Highlander

Updated 08/25/2017 | Published 08/24/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(858)

$850.00

Question:

Im thinking about getting a 2017 toyota highlander limited with the factory hitch installed including beefed up cooler, etc That said, it says that it has a max tow capacity of 5000. and tongue of 500lbs. If I where to get a weight distributed hitch, what would be the max tow / tongue rating? Also, what model of weight distribution hitch would you recommend? Thank you for your time!

asked by: Jason J

Expert Reply:

Even with a weight distribution hitch, the maximum towing capacity of a 2017 Toyota Highlander would still be 5,000 lbs with a maximum tongue weight of 500 lbs; a weight distribution system would not change the amount of weight the vehicle would be able to tow.

In order to choose the best weight distribution hitch, you will first need to know your total tongue weight. That weight is going to be the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2017 Toyota Highlander.

To determine total tongue weight you can use a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining tongue weight I've linked for you. The ideal system would be one in which your total tongue weight would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity.

For example, if your total tongue weight was 400 lbs, you would want a weight distribution system with a tongue weight capacity between 200 lbs and 600 lbs, the Equal-i-zer # EQ37060ET.

I have adde

expert reply by: Kyle S