Recommended Parts to Tow a Trailer with a 2002 Toyota Highlander
Question:
I need a hitch and wiring for my 2002 Toyota Highlander by Tuesday next week if possible. I saw wording about a tow package, but cant seem to figure out if there is a package deal, or what that means. Id like to discuss what all is involved and ask questions to make sure Im not missing anything. Thank you.
asked by: Ben S
Expert Reply:
You're certainly not leaving yourself a lot of time.
The trailer hitch receiver I recommend for your 2002 Toyota Highlander is the Draw-Tite Class III # 41541. The 2 inch receiver will have give you the full capacity of the Highlander and also give you a lot more variety in accessories that will fit.
If your Highlander has a wiring connector just behind the rear bumper then you have the factory tow package. In which case I recommend using # 118245 for the wiring harness. If you don't have that connector then use # 118413 which plugs in behind trim panels on each side in the rear cargo area. I've linked videos of both installs for you to see.
You'll also need a ball mount and hitch ball. I've attached link of our selection of ball mounts for a 2 inch hitch receiver as well as an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop you may need. Once you choose a ball mount you can then choose a hitch ball to fit it.
One way to make choosing a ball mount easier is to go with an adjustable ball mount like the B&W Tow & Stow # BWTS10038B. It features the ability to be flipped under the hitch when not using it and will provide up to 5-1/2 inches of rise or 5 inches of drop.
For a pin and clip to fit you can use # PC3 or if you'd like to have a locking pin you can use # BX8858.
I've also included links to some articles on towing that you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
B&W Tow & Stow 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 5" Drop, 5-1/2" Rise - 7.5K - Black
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Adjustable Ball Mount
- 1-7/8 Inch Ball
- 2 Inch Ball
- Two Balls
- Steel Ball
- Steel Shank - Matte Black
- Drop - 5 Inch
- Rise - 5 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- B and W
more information >
Blue Ox Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Standard Pin Lock
- Keyed Unique
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Flush Pin
- 2-3/4 Inch Span
- Blue Ox
more information >
Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-1/4" Span
- Hitch Pins and Clips
- Standard Hitch Pin
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- 5/8 Inch Diameter
- 4 Inch Span
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
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