Can a 6 x 12 Trailer be Towed Across Country with a 2008 Toyota RAV4  

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For towing a trailer that exceeds 2,200 lbs gross trailer weight (GTW) with your 2008 Toyota Rav4, your best option would be to go with a Class III trailer hitch like the etrailer Class III Trailer Hitch, # e98864, which is capable of towing up to 3,500 lbs GTW and 4,000 lbs GTW with a weight distribution system.

The Class II hitch that your referenced, # C12108, is only capable of towing up to 3,500 lbs and is not compatible with weight distribution systems.

Weight distribution is recommended any time the GTW is greater than 1/2 of the vehicle weight, and a brake controller and trailer brakes are also recommended in this situation.

You may find that the rental trailer has a surge brake coupler on it that would eliminate the need for the installation of a brake controller and brake controller wiring on your RAV4. Some research on the specific trailer you will be renting would be needed to determine this.

You should also check your vehicle owners manual to determine if the fully loaded weight of the trailer you plan to tow will be within the gross combined vehicle weight rating of your vehicle, to avoid damaging the vehicle in any way. Your owners manual may also recommend using a transmission cooler and or a power steering cooler for max towing capacity.

I attached some links to informational articles that you should find helpful.

expert reply by: Robert G

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