Trailer Hitch and Wiring for a 2006 Honda Odyssey

Published 02/02/2018

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1381)

$91.74

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

(874)

$103.73

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3448)

$124.07

Question:

Do you think I need a transmission cooler or anything like that? I would be pulling a 4 X 8 or 5 X 8 uhaul trailer

asked by: Gordon O

Expert Reply:

For towing I recommend going with a Class III trailer hitch with a 2 inch receiver for your 2006 Honda Odyssey. The most popular option is Draw-Tite trailer hitch # 75270. I have linked a video showing an example installation. It is a very straight forward install so I am sure you can do it yourself at home.

Since you plan on towing I also recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

For a trailer wiring harness you can use # 118438 to add a 4-Way flat connector to the rear of the vehicle. If the trailer you tow has electric brakes then you will also need # ETBC7 and a brake controller. For a brake controller I recommend the P2 # 90885 because it is easy to set up and use and it is reliable. I have included some links that show and explain the ETBC7/brake controller installation for you.

expert reply by: Michael H

Gordon

2/2/2018

Do you think I need a transmission cooler or anything like that? I would be pulling a 4 X 8 or 5 X 8 uhaul trailer

Michael H.

2/2/2018

It is possible that Honda might require a transmission cooler and/or power steering cooler when towing with your Odyssey. Even if they don't it is still a good idea to have those items. The most popular transmission cooler for your van is # D13503. We even have a video showing an example installation which I have linked for you. Keep in mind that installation does NOT require taking the front clip off. We do that so it is easy to show on camera. For a power steering cooler the cores are smaller so they don't take up a lot of space under the hood. I recommend # D12213. I have linked a video showing an example installation of it as well.