Reese Weight Distribution Hitch # RP65509 for Towing Aliner Classic Pop-Up with 2012 Toyota RAV4  

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Expert Reply:

First, you will want to verify that your RAV4 is one of the 3.5L-equipped versions rated for 3500-lbs maximum towing capacity. The 2.5L versions of the RAV4 carry only a 1500-lb tow rating and are not suitable for pulling your Aliner Classic Off-Road camper.

Second, you need to confirm that the hitch on your RAV4 is a 2-inch Class III unit rated for use with a weight distribution system. Not all 2-inch trailer hitches are suitable, nor are the 1-1/4-inch Class II hitches offered for your vehicle. The hitch safety sticker will indicate if it can be used with weight distribution.

Next, you will need to take a precise measurement of your Aliner camper's tongue weight (hitch weight) when the camper is fully-loaded with all supplies, including water, food, equipment, camping gear, etc. It is critical to know the actual fully-loaded tongue weight, exactly as the trailer will be loaded when you are out on the road, in order to correctly match a weight distribution system. I have included an article that offers several ways to do this. You also need to add the weight of anything behind the rear axle in the tow vehicle to the trailer tongue weight.

A system rated too low will not provide the correction required; one rated too high will result in stiff and erratic handling. Once you know your actual fully-loaded tongue weight you can select a system. Since the dry hitch weight of your camper is 190-lbs, your fully loaded tongue weight should be somewhere in the vicinity of 300-400-lbs. In this instance I would recommend the ProSeries system # PS49901 that includes a sway control arm and a 2-5/16-inch hitch ball. Note your Aliner needs a 2-inch hitch ball that can be ordered separately, part # A-90 from Curt. The ProSeries system includes a adjustable shank to help you level your trailer when it is hitched.

Please note that when you back up your camper you must remove the sway control arm. When towing during slippery conditions such as on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads or on loose gravel, turn on/off handle counterclockwise until all tension is removed from the sway control arm. Generally speaking, an appropriately-selected and properly set-up system should provide rear end lift in your tow vehicle of 1 to 2 inches and result in the tow vehicle being level or close to level when hitched.

For reference I have linked you to an article on weight distribution systems that will provide a lot of useful background to help you consider your needs.

expert reply by: Adam R

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