Towing Capacity and Recommended Weight Distribution Hitch for 2006 Toyota Tundra

Question:

We are looking at buying a travel trailer. We have a 2006 Toyota Tundra Double Cab TRD 4x4. It has the tow package with frame mounted class 4 hitch. We have tried looking it up, but keep finding conflicting information We would like to know what the hitch capacity is for it ? Also if a weight distribution system would increase the hitch capacity and / or towing capacity ?

asked by: Sharon T

Expert Reply:

Thank you for that information; according to the owner's manual a 2006 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 4WD with the towing package has a 6,700 lb towing capacity. It also says that if you are towing a more than 2,000 lbs it is "necessary" to use a sway control device such as a weight distribution system. I do recommend verifying this in your copy of the owner's manual.

We do not have any type of information regarding OEM hitches in terms of capacity so that would be something you would need to contact your local Toyota dealer with. If you give them your VIN when you call they can tell you what hitch you have and what the capacity is.

There is not any equipment, whether it is a hitch or weight distribution system, that will increase the overall towing capacity of your truck so the limit is going to be 6,700 lbs no matter what the capacity of your hitch or weight distribution system is.

In regards to a weight distribution system with sway control I recommend the Equal-i-zer # EQ37100ET because this system prevents sway instead of just manages it via 4 points of sway control via friction in the spring bars. It also uses clamp-on brackets so you won't have to drill along your trailer frame, and allows you to back up with the system on. This system will work great for your truck's capacity because it is designed to be used with total tongue weights between 600 lbs and 1,000 lbs. Total tongue weight is your fully loaded trailer's tongue weight plus the weight of any cargo behind your rear axle.

Our customers who have used this system regard it very highly, with well over 400 reviews it has averaged nearly 5 out of 5 stars, as you can see on the product page. This system comes with everything you need for installation though it is recommended you use thin-walled socket # EQ70-00-4800 to help install the hitch ball.

I've added a link to a video review of this system for you to check out as well as a couple articles on weight distribution systems for you to take a look at.