Recommended Tow Setup for 2014 Acura MDX and Jayco Trailer
Question:
I would love some advice on setting up my vehicle to safely tow a travel trailer. Tow vehicle: 2014 Acura MDX Travel trailer: 2018 Jayco Hummingbird 17RB The MDX is not tow-ready at this time. Thank you!
asked by: Colin
Expert Reply:
For your 2014 Acura MDX, I recommend starting with the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13146, which is an easy bolt on installation. Then for 4-way wiring, I recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118628 which plugs into your Acura MDX's junction box, which is located in your rear cargo area, behind the driver's-side trim panel in the spare tire compartment. Once connected, insert the fuse in the junction box. I've attached a video to assist.
Then you will use the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7 and a brake controller like # 90195. This Prodigy P3 controller is the most popular option due to the ease of use with preset options and the LCD screen. This will allow you to apply trailer brakes at the same time and with the same intensity as you hit the brake pedal in your MDX.
Finally, I recommend the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System # RP66082 because it will work to prevent sway before it happens and keep your lightweight trailer in line with your MDX. I've attached a video to assist. This system is rated for total tongue weights between 200 and 600 lbs. That includes the loaded trailer tongue weight as well as any weight behind the rear axle of your MDX. For a hitch ball, I recommend the 2-5/16 inch diameter # A-6 or the 2 inch diameter # A-90 to match your trailer coupler. You may also want to consider the Master Lock Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock and Coupler Lock Set # 3794DAT to secure your investment.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
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Master Lock Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock and Coupler Lock Set - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Standard Pin Lock
- Keyed Unique
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Bent Pin
- 2 Inch Span
- Master Lock
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Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
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2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
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2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
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Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 900 lbs TW
- 6000 lbs GTW
- 8000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 900 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
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Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
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