Towing Set Up for a 2017 Toyota Sienna

Question:

I have a third generation Sienna. I have decided on the Draw Tite hitch #76112 because it appears to be the only concealable hitch with Weight Distribution compatibility, which I know nothing to little about. How likely is it that I will need the Weight Distribution feature? And sway Control? And a brake controller? And which wiring harness? For now I am only going to use the hitch to carry the Yakima Exo system and accessories. But I will potentially eventually tow trailers. How likely is it that I will need a brake controller and these other things that will require a 7 pole? I see multiple 4 pole options, and at least one 7 pole option. I also see adapters for 4 pole to 7 pole, and conversely, 7 pole to 4 pole adapters. Would it make more sense to go ahead with a 7 pole? I assume Ill need both, ready at any time for either scenario Exo system and trailer interchangeably. I read one etrailer expert advise response that said it will be easier to run the 4 pole, then add a 7 pole adapter. That seems to add more work and additional wiring connections unnecessarily. No? What is the most efficient way to do the wiring from the start, to be ready for any scenario?

asked by: John M

Expert Reply:

I would be happy to help answer all of your questions and make some recommendations. I will start by saying that the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver item # 76112 is confirmed to fit your 2017 Toyota Sienna. It is also compatible with the Yakima Exo System Swing Away Hitch Extender item # Y82VR.

If you are going to be pulling a trailer that has brakes you will need both a 7-way connector and a brake controller. Almost all states require trailers weighing over 2,000 lbs to have brakes. The simplest way to wire your van for this possibility is to use the Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring Harness w Brake Controller Adapter - 7 Way Trailer Connector item # TK87FR. This custom-fit T-One connector plugs into your vehicle's wiring harness, which is located behind the driver's-side and passenger's-side tail lights. This kit also provides an adapter for a Tekonsha brake controller. I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller item # 90195. This is a proportional brake controller that activates your trailer brakes in proportion to your Sienna's braking action. This kit works for all models of the Sienna except for the SE.

If you end up in a situation where you need a 4-flat vehicle connector this can easily be handled by using the 7-Way RV to 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector Adapter item # HM47365. It is simple to go from a 7-way to 4-way using an adapter but you will not be able to control trailer brakes if you only have a 4-way. This set up covers every possible towing scenario you mentioned and is by far the easiest option for installation.

A weight distribution system is recommended for hauling a trailer that is 50% of your vehicles weight or more. A weight distribution system is chosen based on the tongue weight of the trailer which is between 10% -15% of the trailers total weight. I do recommend using one for towing with most vehicles, the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW item # EQ37060ET is a great option with built-in sway control.

You will want to check your Sienna's capacity before towing. You can do this by looking in your owners manual or calling a Toyota dealer and giving them your VIN.