Weight Distribution Hitch for 2012 Toyota Sienna Towing Trailer with 400 lb Tongue Weight

Question:

I have a 2012 Toyota Sienna with a tow package. I can tow 3500 lbs and have been towing a popup for some time with no problems basic hitch with sway bar. I decided to purchase a larger trailer Coachman Viking 17BH. It has a weight of 2818 lbs so should be ok for dry weight. However I noticed the hitch weight is 406 lbs. This is significantly higher than the pop-up I had before. I believe I should still be able to tow the trailer with my Sienna if I get a Weight Distribution Hitch. Do you agree and can you recommend one for me? Thanks,

asked by: Michael C

Expert Reply:

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use.

For a loaded tongue weight of 400 lbs the Reese Strait Line System part # RP66082 would be your best option. It has a tongue weight range of 200-400 lbs and features only sway control on market to fight sway before it starts.

For a 2 inch ball you would want part # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286.

expert reply by: Jameson C