Recommended Weigh Distribution for a 2015 Toyota 4Runner Towing a 2018 Winnebago Micro Minnie

Question:

I have a 2015 Toyota 4Runner Trail edition - Canadian model with 5000lb Trailer Weight Rating, 6295lb GVWR and total of 11100lb GCWR, the curb weight on the vehicle is 4750lbs and max tongue weight 500lbs. I have firestone airbags in the rear, a tekonsha P3 and going to install a aftermarket transmission cooler - it has a factory supplementary cooler but I am told its not sufficient. I also have a ToyTec 3 lift, about adjusted to around 2.5 front, the rear is 1. The gross trailer weight should be distributed so that the tongue weight is 9 to 11. Tongue weight/Gross trailer weight x 100 = 9 to 11 - all my numbers above are taken directly out of the 4Runner owner’s manual. I have purchased a 2018 Winnebago Micro Minnie - model 2108DS - exterior Length 225, dry weight 3900lbs and dry hitch 410lbs with double 3500lb axles. Based on the dry weights 410/3900 x 100 = 10.51 First question, when I put weight in the trailer does that increase my tongue weight? I see in another Experts Answer with a similar question on a 2016 4runner towing a Lance travel trailer it was suggested to use a Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point - 92-00-0800. My second question is would the newer Equal-i-zer 4-Point hitch be a better option as its a Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control as opposed to 2-Point in the E2 - 92-00-0800. If the 4-Point is a better/safer option, there does not seem to be a comparable Equal-i-zer to the E2 92-00-0800. There is only two options 90-00-0600 or 90-00-1000. Based on my configuration what would you recommend?

asked by: Tom

Helpful Expert Reply:

I appreciate all the information you have given. That makes things much easier to make a recommendation for you.

The dry weights will increase as you add cargo to your trailer. So as you add the camping supplies, your clothes, etc, the weight of the trailer and the trailer tongue weight will increase. Using a weight distribution system will help as you are able to disperse the weight for a more stable ride.

When looking for the best weight distribution system for your trailer and vehicle, you want to consider the total tongue weight. The total tongue weight is the loaded and ready to go tongue weight of your trailer along with any cargo behind the rear axle of your 4Runner. That cargo weight in your vehicle is also used by your system. The Firestone air springs in your vehicle will help with stability and will keep your vehicle from sag, but the weight distribution system will also help minimize trailer sway.

For your system, I recommend the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control # EQ37060ET. This will be a better system than the Fastway due to the extra 2 points of friction sway control in the head of the unit. This system is rated for total tongue weights (loaded tongue weight and cargo behind rear axle) of 200 to 600 lbs. This will be an excellent system for your trailer. I've attached an article to help further.

You will need a thin walled socket like # ALL643216 or the brand name # EQ70-00-4800 to install the hitch ball that comes with this system.

For your transmission cooler, I recommend the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13503. This is a confirmed fit for your 4Runner and it can be used in line with your factory cooler.