Is Aftermarket Trailer Hitch Safe to Use Over OEM Trailer Hitch for a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, even though the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 76031 only uses 6 bolts as opposed to the 10 bolts for the OEM trailer hitch it has gone through an extensive amount of stress tests to ensure that the 6,000 lb trailer towing rating is completely safe. I highly recommend going with this over the OEM for your 2017 Nissan Pathfinder so that you can add some extra components.

For a cost-effective brake controller that is reliable I recommend the Tekonsha Primus IQ # TK90160. This is a proportional brake controller that installs on your Pathfinder using the Plug-In Adapter # 3050-P If you already have a 7-Way connector at the rear of your vehicle then you are good to go, otherwise you also need the T-One Harness # 118273 to complete your wiring setup.

When it comes to suspension enhancement for your '17 Pathfinder is the Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs # F4118 are a great choice that will help to improve your ride quality under a load as you can see in the linked test video. You might consider also installing a compressor kit like the Air Command I # F2158 so that you can not only monitor the pressure in your air bags but you can also fill them right from your cab instead of having to hunt down a compressor.

It's great to see that you're already using a weight distribution (WD) system for your towing setup. A WD system is the first thing to use to help level your towing setup so all you need to do is make sure that your total tongue weight (the loaded tongue weight of your trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your Nissan) falls in the middle of the tongue weight range of your e2 WD system.

expert reply by: Jon G

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Brian B.

6/4/2019

Yes, even though the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 76031 only uses 6 bolts as opposed to the 10 bolts for the OEM trailer hitch it has gone through an extensive amount of stress tests to ensure that the 6,000 lb trailer towing rating is completely safe. I highly recommend going with this over the OEM for your 2017 Nissan Pathfinder so that you can add some extra components. For a cost-effective brake controller that is reliable I recommend the Tekonsha Primus IQ # TK90160. This is a proportional brake controller that installs on your Pathfinder using the Plug-In Adapter # 3050-P If you already have a 7-Way connector at the rear of your vehicle then you are good to go, otherwise you also need the T-One Harness # 118273 to complete your wiring setup. When it comes to suspension enhancement for your '17 Pathfinder is the Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs # F4118 are a great choice that will help to improve your ride quality under a load as you can see in the linked test video. You might consider also installing a compressor kit like the Air Command I # F2158 so that you can not only monitor the pressure in your air bags but you can also fill them right from your cab instead of having to hunt down a compressor. It's great to see that you're already using a weight distribution (WD) system for your towing setup. A WD system is the first thing to use to help level your towing setup so all you need to do is make sure that your total tongue weight (the loaded tongue weight of your trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your Nissan) falls in the middle of the tongue weight range of your e2 WD system.

Jon G.

6/4/2019

Glad to hear that we could help you make a decision comfortably! The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # 331-EBRH-ACCV2 is also an excellent brake controller that you can install in your Pathfinder using the Adapter # 3050-S. Not only is the Tow-Pro Elite aesthetically pleasing (because you can mount it virtually anywhere in your vehicle), but it also features 2 different types of braking performance and it is the only brake controller currently on the market with the ability to do this. You have the proportional braking for typical towing situations but then when you are towing in mountainous areas you can switch to user-control mode for a better advantage. I have attached a review video that you can reference as well.