Recommendations for 2014 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited Towing a 5x8 Hiker Highway Deluxe Trailer

Question:

Thanks again for helping me out. I’m good with theTrailer Hitch Receiver (e98847), 2” Hitch Ball (63845), and the 4-Pole Wiring Harness(118467). I’ve confused myself on the Weight Distribution and Sway control system components. Do I need each of these components, or some combination? Is the Reese Steadi-Flex the integrated solution? Draw-Tite Sway Control Tab (7390) Reese Sway Control Bracket (RP26003) Reese Steadi-Flex w/Sway Control (66557) Curt Friction Sway Control (17200) Once I have the right components for my shopping list, I’m getting ready to load up the cart. Thanks again for helping me.

asked by: Jim

Helpful Expert Reply:

Trailer Brakes are not required on most trailers under 3,000 lbs unless otherwise stated by the local authorities. This should not be an issue with safety behind your 2014 Subaru Outback, but you can add them if desired. I would just need you to pull a hub and let me know the number on the grease seal and the face of the 2 bearings in that hub. With that info I can get you the parts needed for the upgrade.

The bigger issue with a trailer this size and weight is sway caused by wind or passing traffic. I recommend using a friction system like the Curt Friction Sway Control for Weight Distribution Systems # 17200 with ball mount adapter bracket # RP26003.

expert reply by: Jason S

click to enlarge

Jim

2/28/2019

Thanks, Jason. I need a soup-to-nuts recommendation for a receiver and electrical combination, plus the friction system you recommend. Would you be able to work up a quote for me? I appreciate you & eTrailer. Thanks, again.

Jason S.

2/28/2019

From start to finish for your Hiker Highway Deluxe, I recommend starting with your 2014 Subaru Outback. For your trailer hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite # 76227 to give you a clean look and 2 inch receiver. For your trailer wiring, I recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118467 which is an easy installation to your factory wiring. I've attached videos to assist. Then for your trailer, I recommend the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 4K GTW, 400 TW # 66557. This system is rated for total tongue weights between 250 an 400 lbs. This includes the loaded tongue weight of your trailer as well as any cargo behind the rear axle of your Outback. This system will help a ton with sway control and then you can use hitch ball # 63845 to work with a 2 inch coupler. This is all you will need for your trailer to be towed behind your Subaru. If you want the basic friction sway bar and ball mount for your trailer due to it's light weight, you can absolutely use the Ball Mount Adjustable with Sway-Control Tab, 6,000 lbs # 7390 to tow level and have the integrated friction sway bracket. Then you will use a hitch ball like # 63845. Finally you will use the Curt Friction Sway Control for Weight Distribution Systems # 17200 we've previously discussed. I've attached an article on sway control to assist further.

Jim

3/6/2019

I was looking at the installation instructions for the Draw Site you recommended. Looks like a solid choice, but it involves cutting the car. Are there any options that do not require the car to be cut?

Jason S.

3/6/2019

You are correct the Draw-Tite # 76227 requires trimming the fascia so I understand not everyone wants to do that. For a hitch that will not require fascia trimming, I recommend the etrailer.com Trailer Hitch Receiver # E98847. I've attached a photo to assist. This installation will require drilling into your frame for two holes and you'll need to trim the heat shield underneath which is very common for hitch installation. You will not need to trim any fascia pieces so your trim won't be impacted with this hitch. This installation is similar to all the other options for your vehicle that don't require fascia trimming and this is the highest capacity hitch from any of our manufacturers.