Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver for Towing With 2018 RAV4 Adventure
Question:
im looking into a trailer hitch for my 2018 Rav4 AWD Adventure. We have a Coachman Ultra-Lite camper that we want to pull and it states GVWR at 3518 and Hitch weight at 298 lbs. Not sure what is is the best hitch for my vehicle. Thanks in advance.
asked by: Maria T
Expert Reply:
For towing your Coachman Ultra-Lite camper with your 2018 Toyota RAV4 I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98864. This is a custom-fit Class III hitch with a 2" receiver. This hitch has a maximum gross trailer weight of 3,500 lbs and tongue weight of 525 lbs. From what I have found, it looks like the towing capacity of the 2018 RAV4 Adventure is also 3,500 lbs so you will want to make sure you don't exceed it.
The reason I would choose this hitch over others is the compatibility with weight distribution. Based on the weight of your camper and the GVWR of your vehicle a weight distribution system like the # BLU36FR would be a good idea. Make sure to consult your owner's manual before using a weight distribution hitch. The # e98864 also comes with a matte black powder coat finish. This does a better job hiding dirt and scratches when compared to a glossy finish.
In addition to the hitch you will also need wiring. The most reliable option is the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118578. This will provide you with a 4-way connection to power your trailer's signal lights. If you have brakes on your camper you will also need the # ETBC7 for a 7-way and a brake controller like the # RED44FR.
In order to complete your setup you will also need a ball mount. Check out the etrailer Ball Mount Kit # 989900. This kit has two ball mounts, one with a 3/4" rise or 2" drop and the other with a 2-3/4" rise or 4" drop. It also comes with a 1-7/8" and 2" ball, as well as a ball mount bag to store everything in.
I have attached some review and installation videos for your reference.
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 >
etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- 1-7/8 Inch Ball
- 2 Inch Ball
- Two Balls
- Steel Ball
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 2 Inch
- Drop - 4 Inch
- Rise - 1 Inch
- Rise - 3 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Ball Mount Kit
- etrailer
more information >
Blue Ox TrackPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - 7-Hole Shank - 6K GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 300 lbs
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Blue Ox
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 >
Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - 2 Braking Modes - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Hidden
- Up to 3 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Redarc
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
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 4000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 525 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
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