2017 Toyota Sienna - What Hitch Can Be Used With Weight Distribution And Why?

Updated 01/05/2026 | Published 09/09/2024

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Question:

2017 Toyota Sienna Can you please explain the reason hitch e98837is usable with a weight distribution hitch and why hitch e98853 is not? Is it the 4 inch approximate distance from hitch pin to bumper vs the 5 inch hitch pin to bumper. Thanks. The more information you can provide the better.

asked by: Scott

Expert Reply:

Hey good question, Scott. The etrailer Class 3 Round Tube Hitch # e98837 is compatible with a weight distribution (WD) system because the receiver is welded directly to the crosstube. This allows the hitch to withstand the additional stress added by a WD hitch. The only downside of this design is the crosstube will be visible underneath the bumper of your Sienna.

The etrailer Class 3 Hitch # e98853 is designed so the crosstube is hidden behind the bumper. The receiver is attached beneath the crosstube with two metal plates. This design is strong, but it is not intended to handle the additional stress from the WD hitch.

I used to have a 2013 Sienna XLE and we had a "WD approved" style hitch like the # e98837. It was visible but I didn't mind the way it looked at all. We only ever used it for a bike rack and cargo carrier and there were no issues with ground clearance or anything like that. The Siennas are very stout so I have no doubt it can handle quite a bit more weight.

If you plan to tow with a WD hitch you may want to think about addressing the rear suspension to help with the sagging. Take a look at the Air Lift 1000 Air Helper Springs For Coil Springs # AL60732. These insert inside the OEM coil and will beef them up quite a bit. This will help to keep the van level when you are towing which will make long trips a lot more enjoyable. Air bag suspension will complement the WD hitch nicely.

If you plan to tow a trailer, you will also need a wiring harness. Use the Curt # C56106 if your Sienna is the SE model, or for non-SE models use # C56261. These will give you a 4-flat connector. To upgrade that to a 7-way use the Universal Installation Kit # ETBC7. A good brake controller to go with that is the Tekonsha P3 # 90195.

I linked install videos below for all of the parts I mentioned. Feel free to comment below with any other questions.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Jesse M.

1/5/2026

Hey Scott, how did things go with the etrailer hitch on your Sienna? Did the setup with the weight distribution hitch and air helper springs give you the support you were looking for? Your update could make it easier for others comparing those two hitch styles.