Towing Package for a 2008 Honda Odyssey

Question

Question:

Im looking to use my 2008 Odyssey to tow a boat. 1 I would like to buy a trailer hitch receiver kit - was wondering which product is recommended - Curt, Hidden, Draw-tite etc? 2 Is there a difference between Power steering coolers and transmission coolers? Ill need one of each. Ive watched some of your videos on taking off my front grill. 3 My trailer will have surge brakes, but wiring harness? 4 Im planning on using a load distribution hitch, is there anything to look for between brands? Is this all fairly easy to install if someone is good with tools? Thanks in advance!

asked by: Jake S

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

The trailer hitch I recommend for your 2008 Honda Odyssey is the Draw-Tite Max-Frame # 75270 because it doesn't require any fascia trimming (like the etrailer and Curt might). This, as well as the other trailer hitches, exceeds the weight ratings of your Odyssey so you can be confident that you are getting the most out of the trailer hitch. Be sure to check the weight ratings of your Odyssey in your owner's manual and keep from exceeding it.

To finish out your towing setup I recommend the Tekonsha T-One # 118438 because it uses the OEM fuse location and is still an easy install. This gives you a 4-Way Flat connector that will be compatible with your surge brakes unless you have an electric lockout which would then warrant the installation of the adapter # 20036 as well.

The key with coolers is to get the biggest one that will fit under your hood so that you get the most out of it. The most popular transmission cooler is the Derale # D13503 which measures 11" wide x 8-3/4" tall x 7/8" deep while the most popular power steering cooler is the Derale # D13212 which measures 8-1/8" wide x 5" tall x 3/4" deep. I am linking some sample installation videos as well as some helpful articles that you can reference to ensure these are the best options for your towing application.

The weight distribution (WD) system that I recommend going with is the Equal-i-zer # EQ37040ET which has a max tongue weight (TW) of 400 lbs. You just need to be sure that the loaded TW of your trailer plust the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle doesn't exceed this rating. Since the max TW your Odyssey can handle is 350 lbs (with one 150 lb occupant) this gives you 50 lbs of cargo you can add behind the rear axle of your Odyssey. This comes with a 2" hitch ball but it is recommended to use the thin-walled socket # EQ70-00-4800 to install it.

I have attached some other videos and articles for you to check out but you also need to be sure to follow any guidelines in your owner's manual (which it sounds like you are already doing). If you are handy with tools then you should be able to install all of this equipment just fine.

expert reply by: Jon G

1

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Answer 1

Any time a vehicle is not moving or if there is extra weight in the vehicle or because the vehicle is towing it makes it harder for the power steering components to do their job (because of the extra weight or lack of motion). This extra stress…

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Answer 2

So what you need is the correct ball mount rise/drop that will allow your trailer to be towed level. If you did need a ball mount with a 6 inch rise we have the #C45090 though. For hitch balls you would want part #63845 for a 2 inch ball or #63847…

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Answer 3

Hello Paul. Yes, we have replacement hardware kits for the trailer hitches that we offer. You will want to order the #RHK, above the add to cart button you will see a place where it says "Hitch Item Number" that is where you are going to…

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Answer 4

All of the etrailer and Curt Class III trailer hitches that fit your 2020 Honda Odyssey either meet or exceed the max towing capacity for your vehicle, so it really boils down to the design of the trailer hitch and what you plan on using it for. I…

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Answer 5

Thanks for reaching out, Roy! The term "best" can be a little subjective since everyone has their own experiences and needs/wants, but in regards to which bike rack has the best features it is the Thule Epos Bike Rack #TH99XE hands-down…

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Answer 6

Equal-i-zer is a brand that makes weight distriubution systems. But just like with Kleenex and tissue, people use the term equalizer to mean any weight distribution hitch. The actual Equal-i-zer systems do have built in sway control so I would assume…

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Answer 7

The safest way to carry bikes is by using a trailer hitch and hitch mounted bike carrier. Trunk mount carriers only go up to 3 bikes, any more than that and it would put way too much stress on the attachment points on the vehicle. And the roof is…

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Answer 8

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 9

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 10

There is only one difference between the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C13176 and etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e98909 that fit your 2020 Chevrolet Colorado, which is the finish. The Curt trailer hitch has a glossy black finish while the etrailer…

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Answer 11

Hey Ian, the "no-step" you saw on the tandem axle fender kits we carry like the part #HP32VR is in reference to whether or not the fender setup has a step built into the top of it. These don't have that but in general they are strong…

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Towing Package for a 2008 Honda Odyssey

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