I currently own a 2016 Toyota 4Runner. My husband and I are looking to purchase a travel trailer this spring. Our 4Runner has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. My question is, has anyone towed a trailer behind a 4Runner before? If so, what length and weight should we aim for? We live in CO so the air is thin. Should we factor that in when we look at the towing capacity of our vehicle? Also, what other factors should we consider when purchasing a trailer?
Thanks!
With the right hitch setup you could pull a small trailer up to about 20 feet long with an empty weight of 3,000 to 3,500 pound. Anything over that will be a challenge. It's all about cargo capacity. Check you door sticker for the weight you can haul in the vehicle. You will have to find a trailer with a tongue weight of 500 pounds or less.
There will be several on here that tell you it is unsafe to tow anything other than a small pop-up with a Forerunner. I just got out of a Forerunner and they are great vehicles.
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They hold their value and even the longest one is light enough for your 4 Runner as long as you don't overload your cargo weight.
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I just wonder why a website that deals with all different matters of towing doesn't have a stickified thread regarding some of the basics of towing?
Edit: Maybe assumed wrongly about towing information. There is some info in the "RV'ing FAQ" title on the Forum. here
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This is the thread about towing with a 4Runner.
Bottom line, if you want to tow with a late-model V6, you will have to replace the OEM hitch with one that bolts to the frame.
Also, check out the location of the pigtail, and make sure it is a 7 pin plug and not just 4. The location sucks.
* This post was edited 03/01/17 02:39pm by coolmom42 *
Single empty-nester in Middle TN, sometimes with a friend or grandchild on board
If you're fairly light in the passenger compartment then around 4K loaded weight should be comfortable with room to spare. I would keep it under 23' total length due to the vehicles short wheelbase. We towed a 19' hybrid at 3800lbs with our older V6 without issue.
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coolmom42 wrote:
I've looked hard at 4Runners and was really interested in one for a while. The problem is that the OEM hitch is not mounted properly for use with a weight distributing hitch. And you will definitely need a WDH.
This is the thread about towing with a 4Runner.
Bottom line, if you want to tow with a late-model V6, you will have to replace the OEM hitch with one that bolts to the frame.
I've looked hard at 4Runners and was really interested in one for a while. The problem is that the OEM hitch is not mounted properly for use with a weight distributing hitch. And you will definitely need a WDH.
This is the thread about towing with a 4Runner.
Bottom line, if you want to tow with a late-model V6, you will have to replace the OEM hitch with one that bolts to the frame.
Yeah. That.
I am one of the unfortunate ones who found himself with a 4Runner that was unable to handle the towing task that I expected of it. Believe me, I have looked into this in great detail. For the 2010 model at least, and probably more recent ones as well, there is no way the 4Runner can tow with a weight distribution hitch system, and a trailer that is near that 5000lb towing limit will absolutely need weight distribution. It's a *itch of a problem. I ended up having to trade my 4Runner in.
-Speak
It's just Mrs. SpeakEasy and me now (empty-nesters). But we can choose from among 7 grandchildren to drag along with us!
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SpeakEasy wrote:
Yeah. That.
I am one of the unfortunate ones who found himself with a 4Runner that was unable to handle the towing task that I expected of it. Believe me, I have looked into this in great detail. For the 2010 model at least, and probably more recent ones as well, there is no way the 4Runner can tow with a weight distribution hitch system, and a trailer that is near that 5000lb towing limit will absolutely need weight distribution. It's a *itch of a problem. I ended up having to trade my 4Runner in.
-Speak
Yeah. That.
I am one of the unfortunate ones who found himself with a 4Runner that was unable to handle the towing task that I expected of it. Believe me, I have looked into this in great detail. For the 2010 model at least, and probably more recent ones as well, there is no way the 4Runner can tow with a weight distribution hitch system, and a trailer that is near that 5000lb towing limit will absolutely need weight distribution. It's a *itch of a problem. I ended up having to trade my 4Runner in.
-Speak
It's a fact of reality - not a problem. It's almost amusing to see how people try to fudge things. One recent poster said he was only going to use a half a tank of gas in calculating tongue weight.
Glad you saw the light!
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COGirl wrote:
We have two small children so passenger weight isn't so much an issue.
We have two small children so passenger weight isn't so much an issue.
Well that's a fallacy as any kid I know grows like a weed right before your eyes. They also tend to require a LOT of "kid stuff", all of which adds weight. Been there, done that.
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/awink.gif "awink")
JnJnKatiebug wrote:
With the right hitch setup you could pull a small trailer up to about 20 feet long with an empty weight of 3,000 to 3,500 pound. Anything over that will be a challenge. It's all about cargo capacity.
With the right hitch setup you could pull a small trailer up to about 20 feet long with an empty weight of 3,000 to 3,500 pound. Anything over that will be a challenge. It's all about cargo capacity.
Disagree. While payload capacity is certainly a most important consideration for just about anyone towing with anything less than a 3/4 ton, with such a limited tow vehicle as the OP's 4Runner they'd also want to be very concerned about the effect significant wind resistance created by any full height trailer at highway speeds that will severely tax the capabilities of their vehicle, regardless that it may "technically" fall within various weight ratings. JMO, but they'd be far better off to stick with a low profile popup and avoid this issue entirely.
SoundGuy wrote:
Well that's a fallacy as any kid I know grows like a weed right before your eyes. They also tend to require a LOT of "kid stuff", all of which adds weight. Been there, done that.
COGirl wrote:
We have two small children so passenger weight isn't so much an issue.
We have two small children so passenger weight isn't so much an issue.
Well that's a fallacy as any kid I know grows like a weed right before your eyes. They also tend to require a LOT of "kid stuff", all of which adds weight. Been there, done that.
Valid point! While neither of our kids use a stroller, they will require stuff to keep them entertained plus additional snacks, extra clothes, etc. I should know better.
SoundGuy wrote:
Disagree. While payload capacity is certainly a most important consideration for just about anyone towing with anything less than a 3/4 ton, with such a limited tow vehicle as the OP's 4Runner they'd also want to be very concerned about the effect significant wind resistance created by any full height trailer at highway speeds that will severely tax the capabilities of their vehicle, regardless that it may "technically" fall within various weight ratings. JMO, but they'd be far better off to stick with a low profile popup and avoid this issue entirely.
JnJnKatiebug wrote:
With the right hitch setup you could pull a small trailer up to about 20 feet long with an empty weight of 3,000 to 3,500 pound. Anything over that will be a challenge. It's all about cargo capacity.
With the right hitch setup you could pull a small trailer up to about 20 feet long with an empty weight of 3,000 to 3,500 pound. Anything over that will be a challenge. It's all about cargo capacity.
Disagree. While payload capacity is certainly a most important consideration for just about anyone towing with anything less than a 3/4 ton, with such a limited tow vehicle as the OP's 4Runner they'd also want to be very concerned about the effect significant wind resistance created by any full height trailer at highway speeds that will severely tax the capabilities of their vehicle, regardless that it may "technically" fall within various weight ratings. JMO, but they'd be far better off to stick with a low profile popup and avoid this issue entirely.
It greatly depends on the intended use. If the OP is planning a long distance cross country trip then the wind resistance is a big deal and that tow vehicle would be out of the question. If they intend to go down to the local campground a few times a year it is no big deal.
We camp with some friends who have a popup. Works great if it is not raining. Setting up and breaking down in the rain with wet canvas is a pain. Also they say if another camper is close by they hear everything that is going on. We made a trip to Colorado and a bear came thru the campground in the middle of the night. I don't think they slept much the rest of the trip.
COGirl wrote:
Also, what other factors should we consider when purchasing a trailer?
Also, what other factors should we consider when purchasing a trailer?
COGirl wrote:
We have two small children
We have two small children
I think you just answered your own question.
Post a picture of the door jamb sticker or post the number that states weight of cargo and occupants not to exceed xxxx lbs.
JnJnKatiebug wrote:
If the OP is planning a long distance cross country trip then the wind resistance is a big deal and that tow vehicle would be out of the question. If they intend to go down to the local campground a few times a year it is no big deal.
If the OP is planning a long distance cross country trip then the wind resistance is a big deal and that tow vehicle would be out of the question. If they intend to go down to the local campground a few times a year it is no big deal.
Disagree. The trailer and truck have no idea how far any trip is and any towing at highway speed will highlight immediately just how inadequate the OP's 4Runner really is for towing any full height trailer.
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/rolleyes.gif "rolleyes")
The OP however can eliminate wind resistance as a concern by sticking to a low profile trailer such as a popup ... OR by upgrading to a vehicle more suitable for towing a full height trailer.
SoundGuy wrote:
Disagree. The trailer and truck have no idea how far any trip is and any towing at highway speed will highlight immediately just how inadequate the OP's 4Runner really is for towing any full height trailer. The OP however can eliminate wind resistance as a concern by sticking to a low profile trailer such as a popup ... OR by upgrading to a vehicle more suitable for towing a full height trailer.
JnJnKatiebug wrote:
If the OP is planning a long distance cross country trip then the wind resistance is a big deal and that tow vehicle would be out of the question. If they intend to go down to the local campground a few times a year it is no big deal.
If the OP is planning a long distance cross country trip then the wind resistance is a big deal and that tow vehicle would be out of the question. If they intend to go down to the local campground a few times a year it is no big deal.
Disagree. The trailer and truck have no idea how far any trip is and any towing at highway speed will highlight immediately just how inadequate the OP's 4Runner really is for towing any full height trailer.
The OP however can eliminate wind resistance as a concern by sticking to a low profile trailer such as a popup ... OR by upgrading to a vehicle more suitable for towing a full height trailer.In your own words SoundGuy, what a load of rubbish. What experience do you have with the 4Runner to say that it is inadequate to tow any high wall tt? Have you ever owned or even towed with one? Or are you just in the boat that if it's not a V8 truck it's useless?
The 4Runner, from experience, is a very capable tow vehicle within its ratings, just like any other vehicle.
* This post was edited 03/02/17 06:20pm by IBcarguy *
SpeakEasy wrote:
Yeah. That.
I am one of the unfortunate ones who found himself with a 4Runner that was unable to handle the towing task that I expected of it. Believe me, I have looked into this in great detail. For the 2010 model at least, and probably more recent ones as well, there is no way the 4Runner can tow with a weight distribution hitch system, and a trailer that is near that 5000lb towing limit will absolutely need weight distribution. It's a *itch of a problem. I ended up having to trade my 4Runner in.
-Speak
coolmom42 wrote:
I've looked hard at 4Runners and was really interested in one for a while. The problem is that the OEM hitch is not mounted properly for use with a weight distributing hitch. And you will definitely need a WDH.
This is the thread about towing with a 4Runner.
Bottom line, if you want to tow with a late-model V6, you will have to replace the OEM hitch with one that bolts to the frame.
I've looked hard at 4Runners and was really interested in one for a while. The problem is that the OEM hitch is not mounted properly for use with a weight distributing hitch. And you will definitely need a WDH.
This is the thread about towing with a 4Runner.
Bottom line, if you want to tow with a late-model V6, you will have to replace the OEM hitch with one that bolts to the frame.
Yeah. That.
I am one of the unfortunate ones who found himself with a 4Runner that was unable to handle the towing task that I expected of it. Believe me, I have looked into this in great detail. For the 2010 model at least, and probably more recent ones as well, there is no way the 4Runner can tow with a weight distribution hitch system, and a trailer that is near that 5000lb towing limit will absolutely need weight distribution. It's a *itch of a problem. I ended up having to trade my 4Runner in.
-Speak
This really ticks me off, too.
I've towed a 4000 lb trailer with a Sequoia, and only briefly around the block without the WD bars on. About 3/4 mile convinced me that the WDH was a total necessity. The steering was obviously squirrely in even a short time.
No doubt the 4Runner will PULL 4000 lb. But not a 4000 lb RV---I wouldn't even try a low profile that weighed very much, without WDH. Toyota has trashed what would otherwise be a great tow vehicle for a lightweight trailer. And the location of the 4-pin pigtail sucks.
I'm not paying that kind of money for a vehicle and have to spend a lot more to make it capable.
Now if I already HAD a 4Runner, especially one that was paid for and wanted to keep it, I would consider adding a brake controller, an aftermarket hitch and re-working the pigtail. That would be AFTER I paid close attention to tongue weight and cargo capacity of the trailer/4Runner combo.
I've decided I want/need something more sturdy than an ultra-light single-axle trailer, so am looking at buying a Sequoia and a trailer that will work at about 5500 lb. Right now the Winnebago Micro-Minnie 2106FBS is the leading contender.
camp-n-family wrote:
In your own words SoundGuy, what a load of rubbish. What experience do you have with the 4Runner to say that it is inadequate to tow any high wall tt? Have you ever owned or even towed with one? Or are you just in the boat that if it's not a V8 truck it's useless?
The 4Runner, from experience, is a very capable tow vehicle within its ratings, just like any other vehicle.
In your own words SoundGuy, what a load of rubbish. What experience do you have with the 4Runner to say that it is inadequate to tow any high wall tt? Have you ever owned or even towed with one? Or are you just in the boat that if it's not a V8 truck it's useless?
The 4Runner, from experience, is a very capable tow vehicle within its ratings, just like any other vehicle.
Total BS. Yes, I towed (correction - tried to tow) a 21' TrailCruiser hybrid with our 4.0L V6 SOHC Explorer with ratings similar to the OP's 4Runner and it took but 2 brief weekend trips to clearly demonstrate this wasn't going to work at all. That truck towed our low profile popup just fine but for any full height trailer it was completely overwhelmed. The OP's 4Runner is no more capable.
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/frown.gif "frown")
SoundGuy wrote:
Total BS. Yes, I towed (correction - tried to tow) a 21' TrailCruiser hybrid with our 4.0L V6 SOHC Explorer with ratings similar to the OP's 4Runner and it took but 2 brief weekend trips to clearly demonstrate this wasn't going to work at all. That truck towed our low profile popup just fine but for any full height trailer it was completely overwhelmed. The OP's 4Runner is no more capable.
camp-n-family wrote:
In your own words SoundGuy, what a load of rubbish. What experience do you have with the 4Runner to say that it is inadequate to tow any high wall tt? Have you ever owned or even towed with one? Or are you just in the boat that if it's not a V8 truck it's useless?
The 4Runner, from experience, is a very capable tow vehicle within its ratings, just like any other vehicle.
In your own words SoundGuy, what a load of rubbish. What experience do you have with the 4Runner to say that it is inadequate to tow any high wall tt? Have you ever owned or even towed with one? Or are you just in the boat that if it's not a V8 truck it's useless?
The 4Runner, from experience, is a very capable tow vehicle within its ratings, just like any other vehicle.
Total BS. Yes, I towed (correction - tried to tow) a 21' TrailCruiser hybrid with our 4.0L V6 SOHC Explorer with ratings similar to the OP's 4Runner and it took but 2 brief weekend trips to clearly demonstrate this wasn't going to work at all. That truck towed our low profile popup just fine but for any full height trailer it was completely overwhelmed. The OP's 4Runner is no more capable.
How is that even close to comparable? The 4.0l V6 Explorer was pre 2000 model year and was anaemic with only 210hp and 254ft/lbs to mated to a 4speed transmission. The latest generation T4R (2010 up) is 270hp/278ftlbs with a 5 speed tranny. Big difference and would have no problem towing the htt you mention. I've done it across the country with the previous generation 4Runner with the same V6 but only 245hp/275tq and 4sp without problems. The current gen would do it even better.
Sure there are better suited vehicles but if you already own one it will work just fine. Not everyone wants/needs to buy a new vehicle when they can do just fine with what they have.
* This post was last edited 03/03/17 11:30am by camp-n-family *
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We towed with a SUV (Grand Cherokee with a v8 and a "6500lbs tow rating", and Reese weight distributing hitch) for about 10 years, then we got a full sized truck, and I'll never go back. The wheel base is too short on SUVs so you get pushed around like a rag doll. Braking was always a white knuckle event, and going through mountain passes without the air conditioning on was not fun!
If I had to do it all over again, I'd either just jump into a four door full sized truck or stick to pop up trailers for SUVs. Pulling a trailer (basically a brick), with a SUV with a 5000lbs limit is not fun. I can almost guarantee you will have exceeded your CCWR once the hitch and the tongue weight is on the back too. NO $2000 Hennessy hitch is going to change that fact
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! ! Probably not what you wanted to hear though, but like a previous poster said... let the numbers do the talking.
Have Fun,
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I previously towed the same trailer with a 2012 Tacoma which has the same engine but higher towing capacity (6,500 pounds) because the truck weighs less than the SUV.
My input:
1. You'll want more power at times, but the 4Runner will pull a trailer that meets the specs of the manufacturer, i.e. 5,000 pounds maximum.
2. The factory installed hitch is adequate for the job and will handle a WDH just fine.
(There is much speculation about hitches being "weak" and "bolted on", etc, but I discount this because:
A. I've looked at it. It's made with as heavy a gauge of metal as any aftermarket hitch I've ever seen;
B.The amount of weight being distributed from front to rear is on a magnitude of 250 pounds at the very most, assuming you max out the 500 pound rated maximum hitch weight of the 4Runner and assume that you need to shift half of that to the front (very unlikely);
C. The hitch is strong enough to support the lifting of the entire rear of the vehicle using a jack. This means that this so-called "weak" hitch is adequate to support at least 2,000 without deforming.)
D. Note that ALL aftermarket hitches are "bolted on".
3. The 4Runner is supplied with factory wiring and a harness for a brake controller. I use a Prodigy P3 with very good results.
4. I also installed a ScanGauge device that allows me to keep track of the temperature of the transmission fluid. If it ever gets really hot (not yet) I'll consider an aftermarket Trans oil cooler.
Your gas mileage will drop to about 10-12 MPG.
Good luck with your decision. For me, the 4Runner works fine. My trailer is a Winnebago Minnie 1801FB.
Greg
Minnie1801 wrote:
I tow a 3,500 lb travel trailer with a 2016 4Runner. My setup results in a tongue weight of just over 400 pounds, and I use an Equalizer 4 point WDH. Loaded, my rig weighs about 4,200 pounds.
I previously towed the same trailer with a 2012 Tacoma which has the same engine but higher towing capacity (6,500 pounds) because the truck weighs less than the SUV.
My input:
1. You'll want more power at times, but the 4Runner will pull a trailer that meets the specs of the manufacturer, i.e. 5,000 pounds maximum.
2. The factory installed hitch is adequate for the job and will handle a WDH just fine.
(There is much speculation about hitches being "weak" and "bolted on", etc, but I discount this because:
A. I've looked at it. It's made with as heavy a gauge of metal as any aftermarket hitch I've ever seen;
B.The amount of weight being distributed from front to rear is on a magnitude of 250 pounds at the very most, assuming you max out the 500 pound rated maximum hitch weight of the 4Runner and assume that you need to shift half of that to the front (very unlikely);
C. The hitch is strong enough to support the lifting of the entire rear of the vehicle using a jack. This means that this so-called "weak" hitch is adequate to support at least 2,000 without deforming.)
D. Note that ALL aftermarket hitches are "bolted on".
3. The 4Runner is supplied with factory wiring and a harness for a brake controller. I use a Prodigy P3 with very good results.
4. I also installed a ScanGauge device that allows me to keep track of the temperature of the transmission fluid. If it ever gets really hot (not yet) I'll consider an aftermarket Trans oil cooler.
Your gas mileage will drop to about 10-12 MPG.
Good luck with your decision. For me, the 4Runner works fine. My trailer is a Winnebago Minnie 1801FB.
Greg
I tow a 3,500 lb travel trailer with a 2016 4Runner. My setup results in a tongue weight of just over 400 pounds, and I use an Equalizer 4 point WDH. Loaded, my rig weighs about 4,200 pounds.
I previously towed the same trailer with a 2012 Tacoma which has the same engine but higher towing capacity (6,500 pounds) because the truck weighs less than the SUV.
My input:
1. You'll want more power at times, but the 4Runner will pull a trailer that meets the specs of the manufacturer, i.e. 5,000 pounds maximum.
2. The factory installed hitch is adequate for the job and will handle a WDH just fine.
(There is much speculation about hitches being "weak" and "bolted on", etc, but I discount this because:
A. I've looked at it. It's made with as heavy a gauge of metal as any aftermarket hitch I've ever seen;
B.The amount of weight being distributed from front to rear is on a magnitude of 250 pounds at the very most, assuming you max out the 500 pound rated maximum hitch weight of the 4Runner and assume that you need to shift half of that to the front (very unlikely);
C. The hitch is strong enough to support the lifting of the entire rear of the vehicle using a jack. This means that this so-called "weak" hitch is adequate to support at least 2,000 without deforming.)
D. Note that ALL aftermarket hitches are "bolted on".
3. The 4Runner is supplied with factory wiring and a harness for a brake controller. I use a Prodigy P3 with very good results.
4. I also installed a ScanGauge device that allows me to keep track of the temperature of the transmission fluid. If it ever gets really hot (not yet) I'll consider an aftermarket Trans oil cooler.
Your gas mileage will drop to about 10-12 MPG.
Good luck with your decision. For me, the 4Runner works fine. My trailer is a Winnebago Minnie 1801FB.
Greg
Not to make trouble, but, Greg - have you actually weighed the tongue? If your trailer is 4200 lb loaded, I would guess the tongue is more in the range of 600 lb. Do you have a pair of propane tanks on the tongue? A battery or two? When I was using my 4runner for towing a rig that weighed 4300 lb loaded my tongue weight was about 650 lb. When you put that 650 lb on the 4Runner, that cuts into your payload. We found that with only two people (driver and one passenger), and NO GEAR IN THE SUV, we were over on the payload rating. Just because of the tongue weight and the two passengers. So with the weight-distribution no no, the overload on the payload, the short wheelbase, we decided it just wasn't an adequate tow vehicle. It towed great, as far as I could perceive it, but mathematically it was beyond its limits.
-Speak
* This post was edited 03/06/17 08:13pm by Blatz *
SpeakEasy wrote:
Not to make trouble, but, Greg - have you actually weighed the tongue? If your trailer is 4200 lb loaded, I would guess the tongue is more in the range of 600 lb. Do you have a pair of propane tanks on the tongue? A battery or two? When I was using my 4runner for towing a rig that weighed 4300 lb loaded my tongue weight was about 650 lb. When you put that 650 lb on the 4Runner, that cuts into your payload. We found that with only two people (driver and one passenger), and NO GEAR IN THE SUV, we were over on the payload rating. Just because of the tongue weight and the two passengers. So with the weight-distribution no no, the overload on the payload, the short wheelbase, we decided it just wasn't an adequate tow vehicle. It towed great, as far as I could perceive it, but mathematically it was beyond its limits.
-Speak
Minnie1801 wrote:
I tow a 3,500 lb travel trailer with a 2016 4Runner. My setup results in a tongue weight of just over 400 pounds, and I use an Equalizer 4 point WDH. Loaded, my rig weighs about 4,200 pounds.
I previously towed the same trailer with a 2012 Tacoma which has the same engine but higher towing capacity (6,500 pounds) because the truck weighs less than the SUV.
My input:
1. You'll want more power at times, but the 4Runner will pull a trailer that meets the specs of the manufacturer, i.e. 5,000 pounds maximum.
2. The factory installed hitch is adequate for the job and will handle a WDH just fine.
(There is much speculation about hitches being "weak" and "bolted on", etc, but I discount this because:
A. I've looked at it. It's made with as heavy a gauge of metal as any aftermarket hitch I've ever seen;
B.The amount of weight being distributed from front to rear is on a magnitude of 250 pounds at the very most, assuming you max out the 500 pound rated maximum hitch weight of the 4Runner and assume that you need to shift half of that to the front (very unlikely);
C. The hitch is strong enough to support the lifting of the entire rear of the vehicle using a jack. This means that this so-called "weak" hitch is adequate to support at least 2,000 without deforming.)
D. Note that ALL aftermarket hitches are "bolted on".
3. The 4Runner is supplied with factory wiring and a harness for a brake controller. I use a Prodigy P3 with very good results.
4. I also installed a ScanGauge device that allows me to keep track of the temperature of the transmission fluid. If it ever gets really hot (not yet) I'll consider an aftermarket Trans oil cooler.
Your gas mileage will drop to about 10-12 MPG.
Good luck with your decision. For me, the 4Runner works fine. My trailer is a Winnebago Minnie 1801FB.
Greg
I tow a 3,500 lb travel trailer with a 2016 4Runner. My setup results in a tongue weight of just over 400 pounds, and I use an Equalizer 4 point WDH. Loaded, my rig weighs about 4,200 pounds.
I previously towed the same trailer with a 2012 Tacoma which has the same engine but higher towing capacity (6,500 pounds) because the truck weighs less than the SUV.
My input:
1. You'll want more power at times, but the 4Runner will pull a trailer that meets the specs of the manufacturer, i.e. 5,000 pounds maximum.
2. The factory installed hitch is adequate for the job and will handle a WDH just fine.
(There is much speculation about hitches being "weak" and "bolted on", etc, but I discount this because:
A. I've looked at it. It's made with as heavy a gauge of metal as any aftermarket hitch I've ever seen;
B.The amount of weight being distributed from front to rear is on a magnitude of 250 pounds at the very most, assuming you max out the 500 pound rated maximum hitch weight of the 4Runner and assume that you need to shift half of that to the front (very unlikely);
C. The hitch is strong enough to support the lifting of the entire rear of the vehicle using a jack. This means that this so-called "weak" hitch is adequate to support at least 2,000 without deforming.)
D. Note that ALL aftermarket hitches are "bolted on".
3. The 4Runner is supplied with factory wiring and a harness for a brake controller. I use a Prodigy P3 with very good results.
4. I also installed a ScanGauge device that allows me to keep track of the temperature of the transmission fluid. If it ever gets really hot (not yet) I'll consider an aftermarket Trans oil cooler.
Your gas mileage will drop to about 10-12 MPG.
Good luck with your decision. For me, the 4Runner works fine. My trailer is a Winnebago Minnie 1801FB.
Greg
Not to make trouble, but, Greg - have you actually weighed the tongue? If your trailer is 4200 lb loaded, I would guess the tongue is more in the range of 600 lb. Do you have a pair of propane tanks on the tongue? A battery or two? When I was using my 4runner for towing a rig that weighed 4300 lb loaded my tongue weight was about 650 lb. When you put that 650 lb on the 4Runner, that cuts into your payload. We found that with only two people (driver and one passenger), and NO GEAR IN THE SUV, we were over on the payload rating. Just because of the tongue weight and the two passengers. So with the weight-distribution no no, the overload on the payload, the short wheelbase, we decided it just wasn't an adequate tow vehicle. It towed great, as far as I could perceive it, but mathematically it was beyond its limits.
-Speak
No trouble at all!!
Yes, I have weighed the tongue; its 420 pounds.
The cargo capacity of the 4R is 1,165 pounds. So, after the 420 pound hitch is subtracted, I have 745 pounds remaining for occupants and other items in the vehicle.
Greg
The combined vehicle weight rating is 11,300 pounds, max trailer weight is 5,000, and the max hitch weight spec is 500 pounds.
* This post was edited 03/06/17 08:40pm by Minnie1801 *
Blatz wrote:
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
You cant find it in the manual because it isn't there. I believe the "no WDH" argument either applies to an earlier version of the vehicle or may be a bit of internet lore. My first post basically says that I don't agree with those who make that claim.
I'm really only giving my personal experience, and I think its fine to use a WDH on the 2016 4Runner.
Greg
Blatz wrote:
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
I e-mailed the factory directly with this question, and here is their response:
Dear {Mr. Speakeasy}
Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., and thank you for having owned multiple Toyotas.
We apologize for any confusion that may have been caused by the other manuals.
We appreciate the opportunity to clarify that Toyota does not recommend using a weight distribution hitch for the 2010 4Runner.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters. If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us.
Sincerely,
James F.
Toyota Customer Experience Center
-Speak
SpeakEasy wrote:
I e-mailed the factory directly with this question, and here is their response:
Dear {Mr. Speakeasy}
Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., and thank you for having owned multiple Toyotas.
We apologize for any confusion that may have been caused by the other manuals.
We appreciate the opportunity to clarify that Toyota does not recommend using a weight distribution hitch for the 2010 4Runner.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters. If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us.
Sincerely,
James F.
Toyota Customer Experience Center
-Speak
Blatz wrote:
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
I e-mailed the factory directly with this question, and here is their response:
Dear {Mr. Speakeasy}
Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., and thank you for having owned multiple Toyotas.
We apologize for any confusion that may have been caused by the other manuals.
We appreciate the opportunity to clarify that Toyota does not recommend using a weight distribution hitch for the 2010 4Runner.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters. If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us.
Sincerely,
James F.
Toyota Customer Experience Center
-Speak
Speakeasy,
I'm going by what the manual with my 2016 4Runner states and my direct experience. Your 2010 4Runner was the first year of the 5th Generation. Maybe there have been changes over the last several years?
Greg
Minnie1801 wrote:
Speakeasy,
I'm going by what the manual with my 2016 4Runner states and my direct experience. Your 2010 4Runner was the first year of the 5th Generation. Maybe there have been changes over the last several years?
Greg
SpeakEasy wrote:
I e-mailed the factory directly with this question, and here is their response:
Dear {Mr. Speakeasy}
Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., and thank you for having owned multiple Toyotas.
We apologize for any confusion that may have been caused by the other manuals.
We appreciate the opportunity to clarify that Toyota does not recommend using a weight distribution hitch for the 2010 4Runner.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters. If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us.
Sincerely,
James F.
Toyota Customer Experience Center
-Speak
Blatz wrote:
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
I e-mailed the factory directly with this question, and here is their response:
Dear {Mr. Speakeasy}
Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., and thank you for having owned multiple Toyotas.
We apologize for any confusion that may have been caused by the other manuals.
We appreciate the opportunity to clarify that Toyota does not recommend using a weight distribution hitch for the 2010 4Runner.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters. If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us.
Sincerely,
James F.
Toyota Customer Experience Center
-Speak
Speakeasy,
I'm going by what the manual with my 2016 4Runner states and my direct experience. Your 2010 4Runner was the first year of the 5th Generation. Maybe there have been changes over the last several years?
Greg
Here is the actual e-mail I sent to Toyota to pose my question. You will note that my question to them is very much like the question you are posing.
Here it is:
"I am the owner of a 2010 4Runner SR5. I have a question about the proper use of the factory-installed trailer hitch for towing a travel trailer. My question has to do with the use of a weight-distribution system on my trailer. I have learned that in some 4Runner owner’s manuals there are statements that a weight-distribution system is not to be used and can cause damage to the vehicle. I have not been able to find such a statement in my owner’s manual. My question is, is it safe for me to use a weight distribution system with this hitch? If so, what have you changed, in terms of the engineering, from the earlier models where the use of weight distribution was a problem.
Thank you."
I guess you will draw your own conclusions. I know what conclusions I drew.
-Speak
Since you have an active contact at Toyota, why not specifically ask about the 2016 year model which is the one in question. Tell them you are considering upgrading to the 2016 model year.
Blatz wrote:
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
Seems like Minni 1801 is the only one posting who has experience with a 5th gen 4Runner. I'm just curious where does it say not to use a WDH on a 5th gen 4Runner? I don't see it in the manual, I haven't read any official Toyota statement, and I even asked a certified Toyota mechanic and he hasn't herd that either.
It doesn't anymore. It did for the previous generation (pre 2010)
Blatz wrote:
Obviously I own a 4runner a 2015 to be exact. My situation is almost identical to the OP. My new TT is a Riverside Retro 180R with an actual dry weight of 3560 lbs. I've researched the hell out of whether my 4Runner will work with that TT. What I've found is the people who just look at the numbers say it's not a good TV for that TT. Then the people who have actually towed with their 4Runner in a similar situation say they've had no issues at all. Maybe the 4Runner is underrated? I don't know that answer. I can give my assessment in a couple of weeks on how it works.
Yeah, I think you'll have to decide for yourself just how good the 4 runner does as a tow vehicle. Since you will be within the vehicle's ratings, there is nothing to keep you from trying it with fairly good confidence. Obviously I own a 4runner a 2015 to be exact. My situation is almost identical to the OP. My new TT is a Riverside Retro 180R with an actual dry weight of 3560 lbs. I've researched the hell out of whether my 4Runner will work with that TT. What I've found is the people who just look at the numbers say it's not a good TV for that TT. Then the people who have actually towed with their 4Runner in a similar situation say they've had no issues at all. Maybe the 4Runner is underrated? I don't know that answer. I can give my assessment in a couple of weeks on how it works.
What I've seen on this Forum and with direct conversation with other RV'ers is that a vehicle operated at it's limits may seem like an adequate combination but owners typically upgrade that vehicle, finding that a larger truck makes towing much more enjoyable. Of course, not everyone is a situation where buying a larger truck is an option or needed. A lot of this is, indeed, "in the eye of the beholder". That may be some of the reason you are discovering different information about the 4 runner as a tow vehicle.
2012Coleman wrote:
Speakeasy - I can't see how asking about your 2010 model answers a question about the 2016 model owned by both the OP and Minnie1801. That's 5 - 6 years different.
Since you have an active contact at Toyota, why not specifically ask about the 2016 year model which is the one in question. Tell them you are considering upgrading to the 2016 model year.
Speakeasy - I can't see how asking about your 2010 model answers a question about the 2016 model owned by both the OP and Minnie1801. That's 5 - 6 years different.
Since you have an active contact at Toyota, why not specifically ask about the 2016 year model which is the one in question. Tell them you are considering upgrading to the 2016 model year.
Well the current "generation" of 4Runners began in, I believe, the 2009 model year. In any event, the 2010 is considered the same generation as the 2015 and 2016 models.
It's not my problem any more. I made my decision and traded my 4Runner. I didn't want to, but I felt that I needed to. If anyone else wants to contact Toyota they are certainly capable of doing so.
-Speak
"Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
We appreciate you taking time to e-mail us with your inquiry.
Toyota does not have any restrictions on the use of a weight distributing hitch for towing a small travel trailer. We do apologize as there is no literature available which prohibits the use of this component.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters. If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us.
Sincerely,
Erik A.
Toyota Customer Experience Center"
" Customer By Web Form 03/06/2017 08:16 PM
I have a 2016 4Runner Limited. I occasionally tow a small travel trailer and use a weight distributing hitch. The owner's manual is silent on using one of these weight distributing hitches. The total tongue weight and trailer weights are all within the specs in my owners manual.
Is it permissible??"
Clearly, this is different information than was given to Speakeasy a few years ago. In any case, I hope this helps to put the matter to rest regarding WDH use on the current generation of 4Runners.
Greg
* This post was edited 03/11/17 07:29pm by Minnie1801 *
Before I bought the WDH I called Toyota Customer Service and spoke with 2 Engineers on separate occasions and both Engineers said there was no problem using a WDH.
My Inquires are on file with a case number so I feel totally confident using one hearing it from the experts.
2016 Coachmen Clipper 17BH
2016 Toyota 4Runner SR5
Blatz wrote:
Obviously I own a 4runner a 2015 to be exact. My situation is almost identical to the OP. My new TT is a Riverside Retro 180R with an actual dry weight of 3560 lbs. I've researched the hell out of whether my 4Runner will work with that TT. What I've found is the people who just look at the numbers say it's not a good TV for that TT. Then the people who have actually towed with their 4Runner in a similar situation say they've had no issues at all. Maybe the 4Runner is underrated? I don't know that answer. I can give my assessment in a couple of weeks on how it works.
Looking forward to that. good luck.
Obviously I own a 4runner a 2015 to be exact. My situation is almost identical to the OP. My new TT is a Riverside Retro 180R with an actual dry weight of 3560 lbs. I've researched the hell out of whether my 4Runner will work with that TT. What I've found is the people who just look at the numbers say it's not a good TV for that TT. Then the people who have actually towed with their 4Runner in a similar situation say they've had no issues at all. Maybe the 4Runner is underrated? I don't know that answer. I can give my assessment in a couple of weeks on how it works.