Trailer Hitch, Weight Distribution, Brake Controller, Wiring, Accessories for a 2009 Toyota Sienna  

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First, we should start with a trailer hitch for the 2009 Toyota Sienna. The most popular hitch for your vehicle is the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, # 75237. This is a Class III trailer hitch rated for 400 pounds tongue weight and 4,000 pounds gross trailer weight. When used with weight distribution it is rated for 500/5,000 pounds. I have included a link to the installation details and a video showign a typical installation.

Next, you will need a ball mount, ball, and hitch pin. I recommend the etrailer Ball Mount Kit, # EBMK4, that comes with all of these items and a carrying bag. For trailer wiring, first you will need to add a 4-Way, # 118304. I have included links to the installation details and a video for the wiring as well.

To add brakes to the trailer and to use a brake controller, you will need to fit the vehicle with a 7-Way trailer connector after installing the 4-Way using kit # ETBC7. The trailer will also need to be wired with a 7-Way trailer connector. I have included a links to an FAQ and video that explain the installation of an ETBC7 kit for you.

For a brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha P2, # 90885. It is our best selling controller because it is easy to set up and easy to use.

To wire the trailer with a 7-Way trailer connector you can use # H20046. Please note the wiring code table on the product page when wiring in the new connector. The blue wire on this harness is for the electric brakes. When you wire the brake magnets for power, they will attach to this blue wire. I have included a link to a video that may help.

To add brakes to the trailer, you are going to need several parts. First, you will need to see if the axle has brake mounting flanges welded to the axle. If it does not, you will need to have some welded on by a qualified professional with experience with working on trailers because it is a precision job. There are different flanges depending on the diameter of your axle. The ones we carry fit round axles.

If you can tell me the diameter of the axle, the inner and outer bearing numbers stamped into the metal of the bearings, and the wheel size on the trailer, I will be able to tell you the correct flanges, hub and drum assemblies, and electric brakes.

For weight distribution, you will want a system that has a tongue weight capacity range that encompasses the trailer tongue weight when loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle in the van. I checked the specs on the Flagstaff 208 pop up trailer and found it to have a gross trailer weight of 2,607 pounds. Tongue weight is listed at 230 pounds but could be as high as 391 pounds.

For a tongue weight of 230 to 391 pounds I would go with the Reese Round Bar Weight Distribution Kit, # RP65509. This system is rated for 200 to 600 pounds and comes with everything you will need but a ball. You can use # 19256 (2-5/16 inch diameter) or # A-90 (2 inch diameter). I have included a link to the installation details for you.

You will want to consult the owners manual because a lot of times Toyota does require a transmission cooler and maybe even a power steering cooler when towing. However, the tow prep package on your model may include those items.

If weight distribution is used, it will most likely negate the need for suspension enhancement. But if you find you have a rough ride and/or the rear of the vehicle is sagging, you can add some. I recommend the Timbren system, # TTORSEN04, because after it is installed you will not have to worry about adding or taking out air to level the van. I have included a link to the installation details for this system as well.

expert reply by: Michael H

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