Can 2016 Toyota 4Runner w/ 4700lb Tow Rating Tow 4550lb Lance Travel Trailer

Question:

I have a 2016 Toyota 4 runner which has a towing capacity of 4700 lbs. I would like to buy a model 1995 Lance travel trailer which has a gross vehicle weight of at least 4550 lbs. Is 4550 too much weight to safely tow with my 4 Runner? I want to be safe and dont want to do anything that could damage 4 Runner. I cant get a straight answer from the Toyota dealership or from any of the RV dealerships that Ive visited. Thanks

asked by: C. D

Expert Reply:

As long as the fully loaded and ready to tow weight of the trailer is less than the 4700 lb towing capacity of your 4Runner, you can tow the trailer as long as the factory installed hitch has sufficient capacity. The hitch should have a ratings sticker affixed to it that lists its capacity.

I'd strongly recommend you install a transmission cooler like # D13503 to provide protection for the transmission. Since you're so close to the towing capacity of the vehicle itself, I'd do my best to tow on terrain that's as flat as possible to avoid extra stress on the vehicle's drivetrain.

Toyota recommends using a weight distribution/sway control system for trailers weighing more than 2000 lbs. To choose the correct system, you'll need to know the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of the trailer combined with the weight of any cargo carried in the cargo area of your 4Runner behind the rear axle. Given the weight of the trailer you described, the tongue weight is likely between 500-700 lbs. I'll link you to a FAQ article that explains how to find the trailer tongue weight. Fastway offers their E2 system, part # FA92-00-0800 that's effective on trailers with tonbue weights ranging from arount 400-800 lbs, which would be absolutely perfect for your trailer.

You'll also need to install a brake controller in your 4Runner. I'd recommend going with a proportional controller like the Tekonsha Prodigy, part # 90885. A proportional controller can sense how quickly the tow vehicle is braking, and will send the correct amount of voltage to the trailer brakes so the vehicle and trailer stop at the same rate. Time delayed controllers will always send the same amount of voltage to the trailer brakes (according to how you've adjusted it) whether you've tapped on the pedal or having a full out panic stop. A proportional controller provides safer, more predictable braking. You'll also need a brake controller wiring harness, part # 3041-P.

I've also linked you to an FAQ article that explains how weight distribution works.