Eliminating Rear End Squat in 2016 Toyota Highlander When Towing Camper

Updated 05/23/2020 | Published 05/20/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Round - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(175)

$506.50

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(2621)

$23.85

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3870)

$21.44

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW

(169)

$567.04

Question:

We have a 2016 Highlander and have installed an aftermarket hitch. Towing a 2165 lb dry weight camper with two adults and a toddler, the car sags quite a bit. Overall, we don’t have 3,000 lbs in cargo/passengers/camper. Is this normal? If not, what’s the solution?

asked by: Jason A

Expert Reply:

What you're describing is pretty common. Judging by the fact that you've already looked at the # FA94-00-0600 Fastway e2 weight distribution system, you seem to already have a good handle on what you're needing to do. We typically recommend weight distribution systems for trailers that weigh 50% or more of the vehicle weight. Once loaded, you trailer weight will surpass that benchmark so I'd certainly recommend getting a system.

A weight distribution hitch will transfer a portion of the trailer's tongue weight from the rear to the front vehicle axle, which levels out the ride height, and will allow the headlights to once again point in the correct direction (not up in the air). This will also improve your braking and steering response as well.

In order to choose the correctly rated system, you'll need to determine as-towed trailer tongue weight. If the dry weight is 2165, the as-loaded tongue weight will likely be in the neighborhood of 350-500 lbs, but it's best to conclusively confirm that for yourself, you can use a tongue weight scale like # e99044 or one of the methods mentioned in the article I'll link for you. If you find the tongue weight to be under 600 lbs, the # FA92-00-0600 would be perfect for you. In the unlikely event that the fully loaded tongue weight is greater than 600 lbs, use # FA92-00-0800. The trailer ball is sold separately, for a 2 inch ball use # A-90 or a 2-5/16 inch ball, use # 19286.

I'll also link you to an installation video for the Fastway e2.