Trailer Hitch and Accessories Needed to Tow a Trailer with a 2004 Scion xA

Question:

Hi, I have a 2004 Scion XA. I am going to be moving across country towing a small rented trailer, but after that I plan on purchasing a travel trailer/camper that I might need to tow as well. I am wondering what parts I need to get in order to do this. I am seeing class I, II, III but I dont know what that refers to. It seems that I will need a piece that hooks into my car, and then a ball? Is that all or are there more components necessary? What should I consider in this venture? Parts are available online but seem to be scattered and there is no comprehensive list of what I need as a generalized towing setup. I would like this to be convertible to a bike rack situation if needed, though that is not something that is a necessity at this time if it would add cost to the item. I do think that a bike rack can fit into the mail body piece, am I correct? Do certain brands matter, or is it just towing capacity that matters? Thank you for your time.

asked by: Tiffany

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are a few basic items you will need to tow a trailer. First, you will need a trailer hitch. For a 2004 Scion xA I checked with Curt and they do list trailer hitch # C11488 as a fit. Next, you will need a ball mount, hitch pin, and clip. The recommended ball mount is # C45521. For a pin and clip use # PC2.

For a ball it will depend on what the rental trailer coupler requires. For a 1-7/8 inch ball use # 19256 and for a 2 inch ball use # 19258. For trailer wiring use # C56175. I have linked instructions for the hitch and wiring for you.

The hitch that fits is a Class I hitch. This means that it has a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening and it is rated for 200 pounds tongue weight and 2,000 pounds gross trailer weight. But you will want to check the vehicle owners manual to determine that the vehicle capacity is and go by whichever is lower, the hitch or vehicle. I have included a link that covers the other Class hitches. There is only a Class I hitch for your vehicle.

You can also use this hitch for a Class I compatible bike rack and you will be limited to a maximum of 2 bikes. Trailer hitch mount bike racks have a square shank that fits into the receiver on the hitch. For a low-cost compatible rack you can use the Curt # C18085. To use a bike rack with this hitch Curt does require the use of stabilization strap # 18050.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical mens bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # Y02531. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wifes bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my sons bike at all.

I have linked some videos and FAQ articles for you that will help you with towing.