Can 2008 Toyota 4Runner Tow 4,000 Pound TrailManor Travel Trailer

Question:

Hello, I have a 2008 Toyota 4 runner which has a towing capacity of 5000 lbs and a tow package. I would like to buy a Trailermanor travel trailer which has a gross vehicle weight of 4000 lbs dry weight is 3200 approx. I have old man emu shocks giving a 1.75-2 inch lift Is 4000 too much weight to safely tow with my 4 Runner? I want to be safe and don't want to do anything that could damage 4 Runner. I cant get a straight answer from the Toyota dealership or from any of the RV dealerships that I've visited. Thank you

asked by: John L

Helpful Expert Reply:

As long as you do not exceed the towing capacity of your vehicle or your trailer hitch you will be able to tow the TrailManor travel trailer without any issues. I recommend checking your owner's manual to verify your 2008 Toyota 4Runner's towing capacity.

Based on the weight of the trailer I highly recommend using a weight distribution hitch. You will also need to verify that your trailer hitch is compatible with a WDH. All of the hitches we have available for the 2008 4Runner like the # 75155 are compatible with weight distribution.

You also want to choose a system based on the tongue weight of your trailer. Using the information you gave me, I'm guessing you are looking at the 3124 series from TrailManor. This has a dry weight of 3,200 lbs and a tongue weight of 448 or 490 lbs depending on the features. With the trailer fully loaded you're looking at 600-700 lbs of tongue weight. Assuming that is the case, I recommend the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW # FA92-00-0800. This WDH works for 400-800 lbs of tongue weight.

Also, using that same information, you will need to figure out the tongue weight capacity of your vehicle and hitch as well. Although a trailer hitch receiver like the # 75155 would be able to handle that tongue weight if you're using weight distribution, your vehicle may not be able to. Keep in mind, tongue weight is also the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle.

I have attached an installation video along with some helpful articles for your reference.