Recommend Parts Needed To Tow Small Utility Trailer With 2008 Toyota RAV4

Question:

I am interested in the ertrailer Class III receiver Hitch for my 2008 Toyota Rav 4. PART # e98864. Also would need the wiring harness , ball mount and ball. I currently have a small utility trailer with no e-brakes but plan on getting a T@B or lightweight trailer Scamp / Casita or similar . Dry weight on those would be max 2200-2400lbs so I will be looking at sway bars, possibly weight distribution and e-brakes in the near future. So my question: can I easily implement these pieces off the Draw-Tite hitch and wiring 118412 that Id like to purchase now? Also, do I need to buy anything else besides the hitch, ball mount # 2923and 1 7/8 ball to haul my small utility trailer 4 x 8 ? I know Toyota recommends e-brakes over 600lbs but I only use it for hauling brush etc.... Thanks for indulging my beginner questions.

asked by: Steven B

Expert Reply:

The hitch you selected, etrailer Trailer Hitch, part # e98864, would be a good option for a hitch as it is a Class III 2 inch hitch. This is the highest capacity hitch available for your vehicle.

The etrailer # e98864 is able to be used with weight distribution system. You will be able to use a weight distribution system in the future if you decide to go with another trailer.

To complete your towing setup you will need the items that you mentioned:
Curt Ball Mount, part # C45030
Wiring, part # 118412
1-7/8 Inch Ball, part # 19260
Pin and Clip, part # PC3

Our guideline for brakes on a trailer is that anytime a trailer weighs 50 percent or more of the gross vehicle weight, trailer brakes are recommended. I would recommend following Toyota recommendations when towing over 600 lbs. You will also want to check your owners manual to see if Toyota requires a power steering cooler and transmission cooler.

To upgrade to a brake controller in the future, you would need to install, Brake Controller 7 and 4 Way Installation Kit, part # ETBC7. For a brake controller, I would recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Brake Controller, part # 90885, as it is easy to setup and operate.

You will want to make sure not to exceed the towing and tongue weight capacity of your vehicle as stated in the vehicle owners manual.

I have linked instructions and a video installation of the etrailer Trailer Hitch, part # e98864 on a 2008 model RAV4 that will help you. I have also linked an FAQ on weight distribution.