Brake Controller, 7-Way, and Weight Distribution for a 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser and 2015 Evolution E3
Question:
I just ordered a 2015 Somerset Evolution E3 popup tent camper and plan to tow it behind my 2010 FJ Cruiser. It has a tow rating of 5,000 lbs. The GVWR of the camper is 3,500 and the tongue weight is 305. I will also add an A/C unit to it. What do I need to tow this safely? Right now I just have an OEM class 3 hitch and 4-pin connector. I know I need a brake controller and a 7 pin wiring adapter/harness. But do I also need a WD hitch or sway control? If so what would be best? Thank you.
asked by: Ryan S
Expert Reply:
First, for your 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser, let's look at 7-Way connectors and brake controllers. To add both you will need 4- and 7-Way installation kit # ETBC7. Your 4-Way will plug into the 7-Way and then you just have to hardwire the remaining wires and brake controller. All the wiring you will need is included in the kit.
For a brake controller I recommend the P2, # 90885. It is easy to set up and use and it is reliable. I have included some helpful links that cover the ETBC7 installation.
For weight distribution if the trailer weighs at least half of what the FJ weighs or if the FJ sags at the back when coupled to the trailer then weight distribution is recommended.
To choose a weight distribution system you will need to go by the total tongue weight of the set up. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and ready to tow, and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.
Given the capacity of the vehicle a system such as # RP66072 would work well since it is rated for 200 to 600 pounds tongue weight. It also comes with dual-cam sway control. You will just need to add a shank and properly sized hitch ball.
I have included a link to the shanks that will fit. They are available in different rises and drops. To determine the amount of rise or drop needed take a look at the help article I have linked that explains how to measure.
For a ball use # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch.
Products Referenced in This Question
2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-3/4 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 12000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 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
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
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
more information >
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
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Strait-Line Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - No Shank - Trunnion Bar - 6K GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Shank Not Included
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 300 lbs
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Reese
more information >
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