Hitch & Wiring for 2017 Toyota Sienna Towing Boat Trailer

Question:

I have a 2017 Sienna and want to haul a 3000 lb boat. Im looking a 75237 hitch and 118498 harness can I run the wire permanently under the vehicle and mount it to the hitch ?

asked by: Steve M

Expert Reply:

All versions of the 2017 Toyota Sienna have a towing capacity of 3500-lbs so your new vehicle is up to towing your 3000-lb boat and trailer. Do note that all auto makers recommend not towing anything for the first few hundred miles on the car to allow for proper break-in without putting extra stress on the vehicle.

Draw-Tite Class III hitch # 75237 is an excellent choice since it offers a 4500-lb capacity, providing a healthy safety margin. For a wiring harness part # 118498 is a fine choice. This harness installs both by plugging in at the vehicle taillights and by running one single 12V power wire from the battery to the harness module. This wire is typically run under the vehicle, along the frame rail. A helpful video and article are included to aid your installation. You may care to use wire loom such as # 39035 to protect that wire from the elements.

The actual 4-pole trailer wiring and plug can be mounted to the hitch using bracket # 18144 but actually the plug and wiring will hold up better if you simply store it inside the vehicle when you're not towing. Exposure to the elements will certainly cause the wiring to wear faster. If you prefer you can use a protective cap # C58200 too.

Please tell me if your boat uses electric drum brakes; in this case you will need additional components that I will be glad to help you with.