Parts Needed to Tow a 2016 Forest River R-Pod with a 2015 Acura MDX

Question:

Was reading your recommendation for towing package on a 2015 Acura MDX. Mine is rated to tow 3500lbs with 350 lbs tongue wt. I need the hitch, brake controller, 4 and 7pin wiring harness and transmission cooler. Looks like all the parts you suggested for the 5000# setup should work for mine too. I have an Equalizer hitch. I do not have a spare tire or jack setup. My trailer, is a 2016 Forest River R-Pod. Will weigh in at about 3200# with a 260# tongue wt. Do you foresee any issues I might have? Thanks

asked by: Mark C

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch # C13146 along with the Curt T-Connector # C56192, the Wiring Kit # ETBC7, and a brake controller like the Prodigy P2 # 90885 or the P3 # 90195 is exactly what you need to tow with your 2015 Acura MDX.

For a transmission cooler, the Derale # D13503 is a great option. You just need to make sure that you have room for it under your hood. This part measures 11" wide x 8-3/4" tall x 7/8" deep and has mounting locations that are 8" tall by either 5-1/4" or 6-3/4" wide. I have linked a picture showing this for you to check out. The best place to install a transmission cooler is between your grille and the AC condenser core. I have linked a few helpful articles that will help you to install a cooler.

Please note that the Derale Insta-dapt radiator adapter fits most Acura MDXs with 5/16" transmission lines, but not all. In some cases, additional fittings or alteration of the OEM lines or hoses may be required for installation.

Really the only thing that you need to be mindful of is that your Weight Distribution (WD) system is rated properly. You need to make sure that the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your towing setup falls in the Tongue Weight (TW) range of your WD system.

To find your TTW just add the TW of your fully loaded trailer with the weight of any cargo that will be sitting behind the rear axle of your MDX. If your TTW is outside of the range of your current WD system just let me know and I can help you find the best WD system for your application.

I have linked some review videos and helpful articles for you to reference.