Suspension Enhancement & Brake Controller Recommendations For 2006 Toyota 4Runner Towing Trailer

Question:

Thank you for responding to my questions. One thing I forgot to mention in my questions was that my 4Runner has a Daystar leveling kit installed which consists of a spacer on top of the coil springs. How will that affect the Sumo helper springs? On the brake controller, What do you think of the Echo? like the fact that there is nothing hanging below the dash. I think my Runner has a factory tow package but honestly I don't know how to tell. It has a hitch, 7 prong connector, Transmission cooler and it is a Sport model. Is there anything you can tell me to verify that? Thank you for your time

asked by: Dave L

Expert Reply:

We can get you everything you need for your 2006 Toyota 4Runner, and let's go ahead and start with the suspension enhancement, for which there are two options, the SumoSprings # SS78DR and Timbrens # TTORSEQ. Between these two, the better option for your 4Runner is going to be the SumoSprings:

- SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs # SS78DR

The reason for that is they have a 1,800 lb capacity - which is going to be more than enough to help reduce the squat for a more controlled towing experience - and they compress progressively. This is important because it will give you a smoother ride compared to the stiff rubber of the 6,000 lb Timbrens while providing the same benefit to your 4Runner. As for the brake controller I highly recommend an option from Tekonsha:

- Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195

And then for electric brakes for 3,500 lb axles, what you will need is the Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kit # 23-26-27.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Dave L.

1/4/2022

Kyle S.

1/4/2022

Thanks for that information, and I did some checking, and since you have a spacer on top of the coil springs, you can still install the SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs # SS78DR. The reason for that is they will actually install to the sides of the coil springs on your 2006 4Runner. But whether or not they will engage depends on the amount of squat you are getting. If it is severe, more than a few inches, then the SumoSprings will still benefit you. Otherwise, since the Daystar adds height to the suspension, then the SumoSprings (or Timbrens) may not engage. If that is the case then there actually wouldn't be suspension enhancement that would work for your 4Runner, unless you removed the leveling kit. So that's really something you'll have to determine, though I can tell you that, since you have the factory 7-way and transmission cooler, you have the tow package and can use the Echo brake controller, which is the following part number: - Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller # C51180 Not having a controller hanging under the dash is really nice for ensuring you have maximum leg room, and being able to use your phone to set up and control the Echo is super convenient.