Can Weight Distribution System Increase Towing Capacities on a 2016 Toyota Highlander AWD

Question:

Hello. Curious what my maximums are for towing with a WD hitch. Assuming we are loaded right up with camping gear and bike rack with 4 bikes. I was looking at only 4000 ish lb trailers but thinking with a WD I can be looking bigger? Also what other components would I need for a safe tow? Brake controllers etc? Thanks a bunch.

asked by: Chris G

Helpful Expert Reply:

A weight distribution system can increase towing capacity on some vehicles. Your 2016 Toyota highlander's trailer hitch will be the deciding factor. There should be a label or tag attached to your trailer hitch that will state if your hitch is rated for a weight distribution system. If your hitch is rated for WD, then it will list the max tongue and trailer weight capacities for WD on the tag.

On most hitches the WD ratings are usually a little higher than the non-WD ratings. Looking at the owner's manual for your vehicle, it looks like the Trailer Weight Rating (TWR) for your model is 5,000 lbs. If you can tell me the tongue weight of your loaded trailer I can help you find an appropriate weight distribution system.

On your 2016 Toyota Highlander, you will also need a brake controller, 4-way harness, and a 7-way trailer connector.

First, a 4-way vehicle harness will need to be installed. The Curt T-Connector Wiring Harness, # 56042, will connect to the OEM wiring of your Highlander. The harness plugs in at the rear of your vehicle. The attached installation video will explain how to install this harness.

Then the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller, # ETBC7, will be installed at the rear of your vehicle. This kit will include a 7-way trailer connection, wiring, and hardware to allow you to install a brake controller.

The brake controller I recommend is the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, # 90885. The P2 is a proportional controller that will apply your trailer brakes at the same intensity as you apply your vehicle's brakes. The P2 is one of out most popular controllers with our customer because of its ease of use and compared to other brands.

Since you are planning on doing some towing I recommend 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 have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

I have also linked some articles on weight distribution and brake controller installation. I also have included installation videos on these products for you to review.