Additional Items Needed to Tow Sportsmen Classic with 2013 Toyota Sienna

Question

Question:

Hello, We have a 2013 Toyota Sienna XLE. As I understand this model comes standard with a transmission cooler and 3500# tow capacity. I bought and installed a Curt receiver from etrailer.com last year part number C13105. As well as a 4 pole wiring kit C56106 This summer we would like to begin pulling Camper that weights 2840 lbs unloaded and has a hitch weight of 370 lbs. Heres some info on the trailer it does have electric brakes: Here are the calculations Ive run to see if our Van is capable of pulling this trailer: Sienna GCWR: 8990 lb Curb Weight: 4310 lb Passengers: 620 lb Cargo 100# in van, 600# in camper: 700 lb 10 buffer: 336 lb 8990 - 4310 + 620 + 700 + 336 = 3024 lb Max unloaded trailer weight First of all am I calculating this correctly? Secondly, can you recommend what additional items I should use to make this a safe towing setup? Weight Distribution Hitch? Brake Controller? Conversion wiring kit from 4 pole to 7 pole? Im concerned how low my receiver hit is mounted on my van. There is only a 9inch clearance. Would you also recommend air helper springs? Thanks for your guidance,

asked by: Pete R

0

Expert Reply:

It looks like you have done your research!

According to the information found on page 801 in the owner's manual, for trailer's with brakes the 2013 Toyota Sienna has a Trailer Weight Rating (TWR) of 3,500 lbs. The TWR includes the actual weight of the trailer as well as the weight of your cargo. Toyota also states that the gross trailer weight should be distributed so that the tongue weight is 9 to 11 percent of the trailer's weight.

With this being said, the Sportsmen Classic that you described comes very close to exceeding the maximum tongue weight capacity of 385 pounds for your vehicle. I recommend using extreme caution when loading your trailer to ensure that you don't go beyond this limit.

When it comes to the additional items needed for your towing setup, I recommend the following:

Weight Distribution Hitch - We always recommend using a weight distribution hitch when your trailer's weight is greater than 50 percent of your vehicle's weight. Using a weight distribution system helps to reduce the sag that is typically experienced when towing a trailer. I have attached an article for you that answers common weight distribution questions. The system that I recommend for you is the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System with Sway Control, # RP66082. This system evenly distributes weight over the axles of tow vehicle and trailer for stability and control, creates a more level ride for both tow vehicle and trailer, and includes dual-cam sway control that works to stop sway before it starts. To complete the system you will just need to add a hitch ball, # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch.

Brake Controller - I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, # 90885, because this brake controller is highly rated by our customers and is a proven performer. The P2 is easy to set up and includes features like built-in diagnostics, auto-leveling and the flexibility to be used with either electric or electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes.

Wiring Kit - To add the 7 way connector required for the brake controller, you will need the Universal Installation Kit, # ETBC7.

Air Helper Springs - Using a set of air helper springs for your Sienna would be a great idea. Springs like the AirLift 1000, # AL60732, reduce the strain on your OEM suspension by providing added support when hauling heavy loads and also improve steering and braking performance.

I have attached a few articles which are loaded with helpful information.