Suspension Enhancement Options for Towing With 2004 Acura MDX

Question:

I own an 2004 Acura MDX and I intend to pull a trailer not exceeding the cars towing capacity . Please make it clear to me with of those three products you recommend or if you know something better for this SUV to recommend me. 1. Timbren Vehicle Suspension for the Acura MDX, 2004 - THROD2 2. Firestone Vehicle Suspension for the Acura MDX, 2004 - Code: F4138 3. Firestone W237604138 Coil-Rite Air In some websites thy are recommended for this car in some, they are not even available. I am confused and I need your expertise please.

asked by: Florin

Expert Reply:

The Firestone # F4138 and # W237604138 are the same part. 4138 is the part number, and W237604138 is the SKU number that Firestone uses internally.

Both the # F4138 and the Timbren # THROD2 are compatible with MDX models that have the coil spring rear suspensions only. It will not work on models equipped with the Coil-Over-Strut suspension.

The Timbren springs will suspend up to 2000 lbs loaded in your MDX, while the Firestone Air Suspension is good for up to 1000 lbs. Neither system will increase the load bearing capacity of your vehicle. Although the Firestone system has a lower capacity, in my opinion it would enjoy a slight edge due to the fact that you can add or subtract air in the springs as needed in order to fine-tune the ride.

Both products are designed to suspend weight that is actually carried in the vehicle, but to counteract the rear end squat experienced when a trailer is hitched to the vehicle, using a weight distribution system would be a more effective solution.

In order to choose the correct weight distribution system for your needs, you will first need to determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of the trailer. The weight of any gear carried in the rear of your MDX behind the rear axle also needs to be included with the tongue weight figure. I will link you to an FAQ article showing how this is done.

Weight distribution systems are usually effective on a range of tongue weights. Ideally, the tongue weight of your trailer will fall as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the system you choose.

If you decide you are interested in a weight distribution system, I would be happy to make some recommendations if you would reply with the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer.