Trailer Hitch and Brake Controller Recommendation for 2000 Nissan Xterra

Question:

I am looking at getting a set up for my 2000 Nissan Xterra. I am towing a 3500lb Aluminum boat on a tandem trailer with electronic trailer brakes and a 7 pin connector. I have read that I require frame stiffeners for my year of xterra. I understand the factory nissan hitch system included these. Also I cannot see a 7 pin wiring harness for my truck? Do I need a brake controller as well? Best,

asked by: Jason S

Expert Reply:

For your 2000 Nissan Xterra the Curt hitch part # 13183 would work well as as confirmed fit. However we do not offer any frame braces or anything similar. If your vehicle does require those you would need to contact a Nissan dealer for them.

You will need to start with a 4-way (if you do not have one). For that you would want the # 118244.

From there you would need to convert the 4-way to a 7-way so that you can install the brake controller. For that you will want the Brake Controller Install Kit and 7-Way Adapter part # ETBC7. I attached installation instructions and an install video for this product as well.

For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup. You do really need a brake controller since you that close to the towing capacity of your vehicle.

Since you wanted to do some towing you might be interested in etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not include a ball mount with the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, check out the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.