Solution for Reducing Rear Sag on Off-Road Toyota 4Runner with Trailer Connected

Updated 02/27/2018 | Published 02/26/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6319)

$269.36

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW

(840)

$697.65

Question:

I have a 4” lift on my 2017 TRD Off-road 4-Runner with a KDSS suspension. When I tow a trailer, my rear end sags and I need to readjust my headlights. Is there a suspension system enhancement that will level my vehicle when towing but still allow for my 12” suspension travel when off-roading?

asked by: Larry K

Expert Reply:

The only suspension enhancement product available that is confirmed to fit the rear axle of your 2017 Toyota 4Runner is the Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System # TTORSEQ. These jounce-style springs will do a nice job of reducing rear sag on your vehicle, however they likely aren't the best solution for your particular application. This is because jounce-style springs like these are going to reduce the space between the axle and rubber stops, which means you will certainly feel them and it's going to be pretty uncomfortable when taking your 4Runner off road.

A better solution for reducing that rear sag, especially since it is occuring when hooking up your trailer, is with a weight distribution system. When the sag is coming from the tongue weight of a trailer, instead of simply from cargo loaded up into a truck bed or trunk, a properly rated weight distribution system will be the best option.

When picking out a weight distribution system, the most important factor to consider is the total tongue weight of your setup. This number includes both the loaded tongue weight of the trailer, along with any added cargo weight coming from behind the rear axle of your 4Runner. Ideally, this number will fall somewhere near the middle of the operating range for the system you choose. For example, the Equal-i-zer System # EQ37100ET features a tongue weight capacity of 600 to 1,000 pounds.

Using a tongue weight scale like the etrailer # e99044 is the most accurate way to determine the trailer's loaded tongue weight, however if you can tell me some information on your trailer, such as its loaded tongue weight or GVWR, I will be happy to make some recommendations. I have also attached a couple articles on weight distribution systems that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R