2013 Toyota 4Runner Weight Distribution Recommendation for Towing an Aluminum Horse Trailer  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

The key factor to consider when choosing a weight distribution system is the loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your towing system. This includes the tongue weight of the trailer as well as any cargo that you may have loaded in your 4Runner behind the rear axle.

As you have indicated you estimate the total weight of your trailer will be right at the maximum for your Toyota, please check your owners manual to ensure that your hitch is rated for towing using a weight distribution system. Please keep in mind that is it always recommended to abide by the lowest rated component of the towing system.

Also before you purchase your all aluminum horse trailer please check with the manufacturer and make sure that the trailer is rated for use with a weight distribution system. Some trailer manufacturers indicated that the trailer is not compatible with weight distribution systems

If you anticipate that your loaded and ready to tow weight will be 5,000 pounds then an estimate of 10 to 15 percent of your 5,000 pound towing capacity would be 500 to 750 pounds of tongue weight. This is key information that is used to determine the correct weight distribution system for you.

I recommend the Pro Series Weight Distribution System Sway Control # PS49583. This system is rated for up to 1,000 of tongue weight and up to 10,000 pounds of maximum towing weight. So this would work when loaded to the max, with both horses and gear, and will also work for you with only one horse and gear. You might experience a slight difference in ride depending if you have both horses loaded.

This Pro-Series weight distribution system included is compatible with your factory Toyota tow package. It also includes all the components that you would need for a complete weight distribution system including: head assembly, adjustable shank, spring bars, sway-control brackets, hitch ball (2-5/16 inch diameter), lift handle, pin and clip, and the necessary mounting hardware.

Additionally if you do not already have a brake controller, I recommend using the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885 with the direct plug in wiring harness # 3040-P. This will work great for you if you have a factory installed 7-way, which is typically included with a factory tow package.

The P2 is an extremely user friendly, proportional brake controller and we have a had great feedback for this product. The direct wiring harness # 3040-P will plug into your vehicle and the back of the brake controller. All you will have to do, is secure a ground wire to an appropriate metal surface.

I have included links to the parts referenced above, several helpful articles, and a couple of videos for your reference.

expert reply by: Rachael H

1