Why are Your 2" Hitches Rated for 3,500 Pounds but My 2013 Toyota RAV4 is Rated for 1,500 Pounds?
Updated 07/12/2022 | Published 07/11/2022
Question:
Hello, I own a 2013 Toyota Rav4. The car manual says the Gross Trailer Weight must never exceed 1500lb. Then on the info of hitches you sell shows numbers of 3500lbs and more. Why is that? Also, why not three fastener points on each side when others have only two? Is two better than three? Thank you
asked by: John R
Expert Reply:
As far as the maximum gross towing weight rating of your 2013 Toyota RAV4, you are correct that it is only rated for 1,500 pounds.
For the hitch construction, the particular 2" hitches that are available for a 2013 RAV4 also fit newer models of RAV4 that have a 3,500 pound maximum weight rating. This is the reason for the big difference between the hitches and your 1,500 limit.
As far as the fasteners on the hitches, manufacturers construct to get the most capacity out of the bolt connections. With that being said, they determined that the amount of bolts that attach to the frame are at the ideal number.
I went ahead and attached a video that shows the installation on a 2015 model. The process is virtually the same for your 2013 model.
For the best option, I recommend using the Draw-Tite 2" # 76134. This hitch fits both EV and non-EV models and includes a simple installation that takes only about 50 minutes to complete. It is important to note that if you have the SmartKey antenna equipped, it will need to be relocated.
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