Can A 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Tow A Rockwood GeoPro 15TB And Use A Weight Distribution Hitch

Question:

I have a Toyota Grand Highlander 2024 w gas engine + factory trailer hitch. I am trying to determine if it will tow a Rockwood GeoPro 15TB UVW ~3,100 lbs.. The vehicle is rated to 5,000lbs. Your web site indicates there is a problem using a weight distribution hitch on this vehicle. Is that because at this weight a distribution hitch is not needed? thanks

asked by: Allan T

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hey Allan,

The reason you can't use a weight distribution hitch (WDH) is because Toyota uses Unibody frames (2-piece frames) that can not handle the pressure that a weight distribution hitch would put on it and could end up damaging the frame. Your owner's manual should list your towing capacity but you can also just look up your vehicle's Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating (GCVWR) and subtract your Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) from it to determine the towing capacity.

Since you can't do a WDH you can start looking into suspension enhancement to help keep your Highlander from sagging under the tongue weight of the trailer and affecting your handling/braking power. There currently aren't any fits confirmed but if your model has rear coil springs you can measure the gap between the coils in the middle of the coil spring (pictured below) to determine a fit.

expert reply by: Kevin C