What Do I Need to Equip My 2007 Nissan Xterra to Tow a Boat?

Updated 08/17/2009 | Published 08/14/2009

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(454)

$227.83

2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs

(2621)

$18.47

Plug-N-Tow (R) Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Trailer Connector

(5)

$64.04

Question:

I want the entire setup to tow a boat trailer that has its own brakes. What do I need...I do NOT have the factory towing option. 1. Hitch 2. Ball mount, ball 3. Wiring harness? which one 4. Brake controller one of those slide things? 5. Weight distributing setup? I see the VAlley or Curt are the most solid and have a step on them. What else do I need?

asked by: Kevin

Expert Reply:

Typically, a boat trailer with brakes will have a hydraulic coupler. If this is the case, you will not need a brake controller. For a hitch, I would recommend the Curt Class III Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 13514. The ballmount needed will depend on the height of your boat trailer coupler when it is level. We have an online FAQ page that demonstrates how to correctly measure for the necessary rise or drop your ballmount will need. A 2 inch ball is the most common size, such as part # 19258. You will want to check the coupler of your trailer, the necessary ball size should be stamped on it. Since your Xterra does not have the tow package, you will need the Plug-N-Tow Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Trailer Connector, part # 43605. You do not mention how much your boat and trailer weigh, but unless the weight is greater than 50 percent of the weight of the Xterra, and you are not experiencing any trailer sway you most likely do not need a weight distribution system.

expert reply by: Mike L