Towing a Pop-Up Camper with 2014 Toyota Sienna
Question:
Hi, I currently am new to this trailer thing so Im looking for advice. We will be pulling a pop up camper which will weigh less than 3500. Our vehicle is a 2014 Toyota Sienna van. I am looking for hitch and wiring recommendations. thanks
asked by: Bernie W
Expert Reply:
Hi and welcome to the adventure of pop-up campers. Please note the attached links below for the product reviews, installation instructions and helpful articles that etrailer.com has published.
First for your trailer hitch, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98837. This is a confirmed fit for your 2014 Toyota Sienna (installation video attached below). This is a Class III hitch with a tongue weight of 350 lbs. and a maximum gross trailer weight of 3,500 lbs but when used with weight distribution system, (I recommend) it is rated for up to 5,000 lbs.
You will need a wiring harness, I suggest the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118498. With this you can quickly and easily install a 4-way trailer connector on your 2014 Toyota Sienna the T-One connector plugs directly into existing wiring. Powered ModuLite reduces strain on wiring system and provides a 4-way flat trailer connector at the back of your vehicle to power your trailer's signal lights.
I suggest you use a weight distribution system, WDS, with sway control; even though you expect your trailer weight to be less than 3500 lbs. Based on your statement of weight, I recommend the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 4,000 lbs GTW, 400 lbs TW # EQ37040ET. This includes the shank and a 2" ball. If you choose to not use a WDS such as this, you will need to purchase the ball and ball mount. I've attached a helpful guide article to assist your selection.
Most pop-up campers do not have brake axels but some do. If yours is equipped then I suggest you take advantage of their use. I suggest you purchase a proportional brake controller, such as the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195. You will need to upgrade the flat-4 pin wiring for trailer lights to a 7 pin to provide power for the brakes. You will first need to install the 4-pole, there is not a 7 pin for the 2014 Toyota Sienna directly available. You can then use our trailer brake controller install kit, part # ETBC7. This includes all parts needed to convert the 4-pole to a 7-way (no adapters will be needed) that will carry all the signals for your trailer.
The only other thing you may need to safely tow your pop-up camper is suspension enhancements. If after you have your hitch, wiring installed and the camper properly arranged you decide this to be something you want help with, please let us know. Happy camping.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 4,000 lbs GTW, 400 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 200 lbs
- 300 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 500 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
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