Towing Safely With A 2004 Toyota Tacoma

Question:

I have a 2004 Toyota Tundra with tow package from the factory. The hitch itself has no sticker on it so I dont know any tow ratings and neither does the dealer when I checked with them. The manual says gross trailer weight max is 6700 lbs, tongue weight on weight carry hitch is 670 lbs and with a weight dist hitch it is 1005 lbs. Im looking at a trailer with a dry tongue weight of 709 lbs. Would I be correct in saying that I could not tow the trailer with the ball hitch alone, but Id be ok with a weight distribution hitch? Would the Blue ox Blu47FR be correct? Also, it appears that if I wanted a stronger hitch or at least one that I definitely know the ratingthat Id have to remove the factory bumper, as you hitches wont fit with the factory bumper in place. Also need a recommendation on a brake controller. Supposed there is a harness connection near the emergency brake. Thanks

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

Always go by your owners manual. If we were to give you a higher rated hitch, your Tundra will still be the limiting factor. I would encourage you to measure your tongue weight using this scale # e99044. Watch the video to get a closer look as to how it works! I always triple check the tongue weight to make sure I have an accurate number so I can make the right decisions moving forward.

On that note, a trailer with a DRY tongue weight of 709 lbs will be too much for your truck once you load anything on there, even with a weight distribution hitch.

I recommend grabbing the Blue OX SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch # BXW1000 just because it is rated for what your trucks max tongue weight with that sort of hitch. This way you're not limiting your truck if you ever needed to haul something a bit heavier. The one you're looking at would work # Blu47FR but will limit your truck a bit.

As far as brake controllers I would go with the Curt Echo # C51180 as it is the EASIEST way to control your brakes on anything you're hauling in my opinion.

You should be all set! Be sure to check out the videos I've attached for you so you can get a closer look at all these products.