What Trailer Hitch Is Recommended For Towing A Boat With A 2005 Toyota Sienna

Question:

I was wondering if you can help me narrow down a hitch for my 2005 Toyota Sienna Minivan. I will be towing boats in the 1,500-2,000 lb range. I formerly had a 1998 Chevrolet Venture which had a 1 1/4 hitch and it handled the boats just fine. My requirements for a hitch are as follows: Id like the hitch to be as hidden as possible so it isnt very noticeable when the hitch is not in use. Id like as much clearance as possible because Ive heard that the Sienna hitches sit pretty low due to the recessed 3rd row seat storage compartment on the van. Ive heard sometimes the hitches drag. I wont be pulling real heavy trailers so maybe this isnt going to be an issue? Id like a good quality finish that wont rust. If possible, I might like to stay with the 1 1/4 tube since I already have a ball mount from my previous van. If the 1 1/4 is available, Id like the strength rating to be 3,500 instead of 2,000 if possible just to be on the safe side. Based upon the above, if you could make a recommendation I would appreciate it. Perhaps if you can tell the advantages and disadvantages of the various brands/models I can make a better decision.

asked by: Gary B

Expert Reply:

I will be glad to help you with your hitch selection. The Draw-Tite Class III 2 Inch Hitch # 75237 would be an excellent choice for the towing situations you have described. With the 2 inch receiver you will have a wider selection of accessories available that you may need in the future such as bike racks and cargo carriers. It has a towing weight capacity of 3,500 lbs. and a tongue weight capacity of 350 lbs.

At this time, there is not a Class II receiver with the 1-1/4 inch hitch opening available for your Sienna.

The Recommended hitch will install just under the rear fascia and should not give you any problems with clearance unless your tongue weight is heavy causing the van to sag. I am sending a link to a picture of the Draw-Tite installed on a Toyota Sienna van.

The hitches we offer feature a durable powder coat finish. Touch ups can also be done easily with normal spray paint, just protect the vehicle finish when spraying.

The only real advantage that any hitch manufacturer has over another is how they test the hitch for capacity ratings. Reese and Draw-Tite are physically tested unlike others that do computer aided design, CAD, testing. If you would like the safest hitch that is designed based on physical testing I would recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Round Tube Hitch # 75237.

Some items you may need with your new selection are listed below.

Drawbar # 2753
Wiring # 118304
Hitch Ball # 19260 or # 19247
Hitch Lock # e98880

I have included a picture that shows how a few of the hitches for the Sienna mount below the rear bumper.