Recommendations to Help a 2013 Toyota Highlander Tow a Kodiak 200QB

Updated 03/24/2014 | Published 03/23/2014

Question:

I really like the Kodiak 200QB with a dry weight of about 3900 pounds. My wife and I are going to travel alone and we intend to travel a lot. I will not travel with water in the thanks unless necessary to maintain the weight as low as possible. I will install a weight distributor on my RV and anti-sway. Do you think my 2013 Highlander, V6 engine can tow that RV for long runs?

asked by: Benoit B

Expert Reply:

I looked up your 2013 Toyota Highlander V6 and it looks like the towing capacity is right at 5,000 lbs so technically you should be able to tow your Kodiak 200QB as long as when you are fully loaded an ready to tow you do not exceed this figure. A weight distribution system is recommended when the weight of the trailer weighs more than 50 percent of the weight of the tow vehicle so I think it would be an excellent idea for you.

To pick out a weight distribution system the most important figure to consider is the loaded tongue of the setup when it is fully loaded and ready to tow. This should also include the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle. I attached an FAQ article on how this is done.

A transmission cooler would be an excellent idea as well since typically factory transmission coolers are adequate at best for non-towing situations. For that check out the Derale transmission cooler part # D13503. Heat is the number one killer of transmissions and this will help keep your fluid cool to prolong the life of your transmission. I attached an FAQ on these plus an install video for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jameson C