Recommended Trailer Hitch And Trailer Wiring Harness For 2008 Honda Odyssey

Question:

Need some guidance on what I need to pull a small pop-up 1500 lbs dry weight with 2008 Honda Odyssey. The camper Im currently looking at has 190 lb tongue weight. For sure need a receiver, which it looks like you spec very clearly. Also need ball mount and ball. Any thoughts on length//raise for ball mount? Would also need a trailer wiring harness. Looks like you spec the harness pretty clearly. Any weight distribution or sway control needed with this type of vehicle/trailer?

asked by: Nathan

Expert Reply:

The trailer hitch I recommend is the Draw-Tite # 75270. This is a Class lll hitch and it has a 2-inch receiver opening.

Selecting a ball mount can be a little tricky. Since it sounds like you plan on doing 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.

The trailer wiring harness I recommend is part # 118438. This is a simple installation. You just plug the harness into the Odyssey's harness located behind the trim panel on the passenger side in the rear cargo area. You then insert the included fuse as you can see in the attached installation video.

When working with electrical connectors I recommend using dielectric grease like part # 11755. This keeps dirt and moisture out of the electrical connections and helps prevent corrosion.

With the weight of the trailer you described, a weight distribution system is probably not necessary. Typically, a WD system is used when the loaded trailer weighs more than 50 percent of the towing vehicle weight or if the tongue weigh causes the back of the towing vehicle to sag. My recommendation is to hook the trailer up and take it out to see how everything handles and feels. If you feel you need the system let me know and I will be glad to make some recommendations that will work for you.