What is Included in Tow Package on a 2008 Toyota Highlander

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Question:

Hi, I have a question about what is actually included in a towing package. I have a V6 2008 Highlander which, it appears, has a 5000 lb towing capacity with the tow package. What I am unclear about is what is all included with the tow package. I had a brake controller installed and had a few people suggest I should add a transmission cooler, but I cant find anything about a transmission cooler on-line. Any thoughts? Also, I have a Valley Hitch 2 inch on which is stated do not use with a weight distributing hitch. The trailer owners forum repeatedly suggests the use of a weight distribution hitch, so I dont know if I should get rid of my existing hitch and , if so,what I should get in its place to accommodate a weight distributing hitch.

asked by: James K

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Expert Reply:

The features and equipment that constitute an auto maker's OEM "tow package" can vary by vehicle manufacturer, vehicle model and model year. Auto makers may change the elements of a "tow package" for any number of reasons. The best way to determine exactly what your particular Highlander's equipment and capacities are is to contact your local dealership with the VIN number. They can then determine exactly how it is equipped.

If you have need for a weight distribution system for your trailer, you will need to select a new hitch that is specifically rated for such applications. Not all hitches are so rated. We offer the Draw-Tite Hitch # 75726 which is a 2-inch Class III unit that can be used with weight distribution. The linked article will help you determine if such a system is necessary in your application and also how to select a system tuned properly for your trailer.

The transmission cooler supplied with a typical tow package may not offer sufficient capacity for some towing applications so an aftermarket supplemental cooler is a good idea. Coolers are not vehicle-specific so you can use the largest one that will fit in the space available.

I suggest one of the following Class III transmission coolers. Derale Transmission Cooler, part # D13503, is a universal-fit design that measures 11W x 8-3/4H. Derale also offers a slightly smaller Class III cooler, part # D13502, which measures 11W x 7-1/4H. Both coolers are designed for Toyota Highlanders with late-model, electronic overdrive transmissions. You will need to measure the space in front of your radiator to determine which of these two coolers will be the best fit. I have attached videos on both of these products, as well as an installation video for part # D13503. For maximum cooling, you might consider a high-efficiency Class IV transmission cooler, such as the Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ NPT Inlets, part # D13613. Note that this product is thicker than the other two coolers recommended (1-1/4 inch versus 7/8 inch).

expert reply by: Adam R

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Answer 1

You will need to check your vehicle owners manual, the drivers side door jamb, and the trailer hitch itself, to determine the maximum towing capacity for your specific vehicle. I did some research on the internet and found that the 2008 Toyota…

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Answer 2

If your 2008 Toyota Highlander has a converter box under the dashboard already then you have the factory tow package. To give you an idea of what to look for I've attached a video of the trailer wiring being installed onto a Highlander without…

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Answer 3

For your application I recommend checking out the Curt RockerBall Shock Absorbing 2" Hitch Ball which comes with a 3/4" diameter shank as part #C94CR or with a 1" diameter shank as part #C40047. This unique hitch ball absorbs the shock…

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Answer 4

Great news! I can help you find the brake controller harness on your truck. Since you have a factory tow package on your 2016 Toyota Tacoma you will have a plug for a brake controller in your dash. According to the instructions on the #3031-P harness…

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Answer 5

I do recommend you use a weight distribution system on the Intech Explore Travel Trailer while towing with your 2018 Toyota Highlander. The reason for this is because the weight of the trailer will be over half the weight of the vehicle which is the…

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Answer 6

If you have a vehicle specific wiring harness for a brake controller then that would indicate that you have a factory tow package and subsequently would already have a 7-way at the back of your vehicle. The universal 7-way connector #ETBC7 is meant…

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Answer 7

Yes, the red light on the Hayes Syncronizer Trailer Brake Controller #HA81725 will come on whenever you apply your tow vehicle's brakes, even when no trailer is connected. However, no power is used when there isn't a trailer detected.

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What is Included in Tow Package on a 2008 Toyota Highlander

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