Will Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver 13394 Allow for Full Size Spare on 2018 Toyota Highlander

Question:

In the body of the response to my question you recommended use of the harness 5604. You had suggested use of a Draw Tite hitch in a previous paragraph. Does the 5604 wiring package go with the Curt 13394, if the car has existing tow package wiring?

asked by: Margaret W

Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13394 will fit with a full size spare tire stowed under vehicle unless the spare is on an aluminum rim, which is too wide. If you're concerned about the fit of the hitch with your spare tire I recommend the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # DT84MR which doesn't have this restriction.

The Draw-Tite is also a Class III hitch with a 2" receiver. It has the same gross towing weight of 5,000 lbs and max tongue weight of 500 lbs. It also comes with an integrated mounting point for a 4-way or 7-way wiring connection.

If you need wiring, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118449 if you don't have the factory tow package. This plugs into existing wiring, providing you with a 4-way to power a trailer's signal lights. If you do have the factory tow package you need the # 56042 instead.

If you're in need of a ball mount, check out the etrailer Ball Mount Kit # 989900. This kit has two ball mounts, one with a 3/4" rise or 2" drop and the other with a 2-3/4" rise or 4" drop. It also comes with a 1-7/8" and 2" ball, as well as a ball mount bag to store everything in.

I have attached some review and installation videos for your reference.

expert reply by: Robin H

Margaret W.

4/6/2022

Robin H.

4/6/2022

If you already have a 4-way then you don't need to add the # 56042. If you're saying you have the tow package with the port for the 4-way, then the # 56042 is the correct choice to add a 4-way connection at the back. The hitch doesn't matter. You can use the Curt or the Draw-Tite hitch with any wiring harness. I gave the Draw-Tite # DT84MR as an additional option because it will work if you have the aluminum rim or if you aren't sure what kind of spare you have.