Recommended Weight Distribution Hitch and Brake Controller for a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

Question:

I have a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL with a stated towing capacity of 6000lbs and hitch weight of 600lbs. I am looking at travel trailers and have done some research on towing. Some people suggest a mid sized SUV like the Pathfinder isnt sufficient for a travel trailer even under a dry weight of 5000lbs and that a weight distribution hitch should not be used on a unibody frame. There are also suggestions that the frontal surface areas of most trailers are too large for the Pathfinder. Any advice on how heavy of a travel trailer it would be safe to tow with this vehicle and if so, what would you recommend for brake conrollers and weight distribution and what does that system weigh?

asked by: Nate V

Helpful Expert Reply:

Unfortunately, there are many purists today in the towing world who believe only 3/4 ton and 1 ton vehicles should be used for towing and that is just simply not the case. The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder as you mentioned is rated for up to 6,000 lbs and it can pull every bit of this. In regards to the use of a weight distribution system, this is actually required for trailers over 5,000 lbs as are trailer brakes according to your owner's manual (page 10-21).

For a weight distribution system, it would be wise to go with the best and forget the rest therefore I recommend the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System part # EQ37100ET which is the most durable option on the market due to its forged head and it has the best performing sway control of any other system we offer. The system weighs 100 total but you will only be lifting 25-50 lbs max at any given time. For a brake controller, I recommend the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller part # C51180 because it is plug and play therefore does not require any modifications to the tow vehicle and it performs extremely well.

expert reply by: Conner L