Forum Discussion

mastee's avatar
mastee
Explorer
Mar 01, 2017

2004 V8 4runner with 7K frame mounted hitch

Hello,

So we are considering a long distance move from atlanta to seattle, I have a 04 v8 4runner with a frame mounted hitch receiver that is WDH compatible, t4r also comes with leveling rear airbags.

I am looking at slightly used trailers 22' or 24' in length and planning to get rid of all items but the necessities i.e. no furniture or other big items but we will have all our other stuff with two people, if I get something around 4000-4500 dry weight then fully loaded we should not exceed 6000 lbs at the very max

How much is a reasonably prized WDH and sway bar system for the trailers of this size?
Also What about electronic brakes, do they come pre-installed or something I should look for?

sounds reasonable, what brands to consider?
  • sch911's avatar
    sch911
    Explorer
    Mar 01, 2017
    Better consider the 4Runner's remaining payload capacity as the added hitch weight will most likely be the limiting factor and not the weight of the trailer.
  • rexlion's avatar
    rexlion
    Explorer
    Mar 01, 2017
    Most travel trailers have brakes, but you need a controller in the truck. Tekonsha Prodigy is a good one.

    An Equal-i-zer brand WD hitch with built-in sway control can be had for about $450. Or an Andersen No-Sway would work; I think they're about the same or a bit more.

    You must not be keeping much stuff if you think it won't weigh more than 1500-2000 lbs. You will want to weigh the trailer and the tongue when packed to ensure proper front-to-back weight loading; you want 10% to 15% of total trailer weight on the hitch.
  • wcjeep's avatar
    wcjeep
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    What about renting a large uhaul and towing the 4runner. Let uhaul equipment take the stress.
  • mastee's avatar
    mastee
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    I have this crazy idea to just relocate and find new employment in Seattle (3 times more sw development positions in Seattle vs Atlanta), so I will probably stay in it for 2-6 months. At the moment wife is not willing to stay behind but that is still under discussion.

    I am leaning towards a lighter trailer so fully loaded with all my items it is around 5500 lbs. I am going to take out any unnecessary beds, benches and probably leave a few heavier items to be shipped later like books, pans etc but I want to be able to independently live in it until I find something

    I have visited couple of rv dealers and even the 18' is ok for myself for short term stay but a 20-24 would be better if wifey decides to join..
  • camp-n-family's avatar
    camp-n-family
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    We had the same year and model T4R. Towed a 26' tt @ 5500lbs. Handled the weight no problem, the length was starting to push the short wheelbase though. You should be ok with the size you mention but I would try to keep it under 5500lbs. Any heavier and the tongue weight will exceed the receiver limits. The T4R had more payload than my Tundra.

    Properly set up, any wd hitch should be fine. Cheap ones can be found for $200. I would suggest spending a little more though on something with built in sway control like the Equil-I-zer or Blue Ox.

    A trailer that size will have brakes. You will need a brake controller installed to use them. With the right harness it is an easy plug and play install. The tekonsha models are good and popular.
  • camp-n-family's avatar
    camp-n-family
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    Jebby14 wrote:
    Rent a uhaul. this plan has bad idea written all over it.


    Why? Where's the problem? Well within the 4Runners capability if the numbers are as posted.
  • Jebby14's avatar
    Jebby14
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    planning on buying a camper that's at or over capacity and butcher it to get into spec only to add a bunch of weight back in (likely more than you remove) to move seems like its not going to be easy, affordable, efficient or fun. with enough time and money nearly everything is possible but not necessarily a good idea. renting a large enough truck and being done with it will likely put OP ahead in nearly all aspects.
  • MSchu's avatar
    MSchu
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    How about just loading your stuff in the 4Runner, driving to Seattle, and buying the trailer there? You should be able to check out Craigs List and local RV dealers ahead of time and have a few possibilities ready to inspect. and save a lot of wear and tear on a 13 year old car.

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