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mariememe's avatar
mariememe
Explorer
Dec 06, 2014

towing jayco x17Z feather ultra lite with hond pilot ex 4w/d

We're now looking at the honda pilot ex 4/wd hopefully 2013 to tow our hybrid jayco17Z. Does anyone have experience with this combo?
  • Check the Hybrid section of the JaycoOwners forum. There are a number of threads discussing this very topic, with comments from Pilot/17Z owners. Definitely will need tow package, HD trans cooler, sway bars, etc.
  • I didn't think a Honda Pilot could tow anything. Might be wise to look at a different tow vehicle. Also, I wouldn't rely on what a salesman might say either. They have been known to stretch the truth a bit.
  • I see two problems. One, the dry hitch weight is nearly 400 lb and once you get loaded it will probably be 500 lb or more. Check the hitch weight rating of the Pilot, you may be over. Second, your trailer has a large frontal area (8' wide) and will push a lot of air; you could do ok if you keep your speed down around 55, but beyond that it might struggle and do a lot of shifting (which is hard on a transmission). Weightwise you are within the limit and have plenty of cushion. So the first thing to check is the hitch weight rating, and if it's ok and if you are comfortable with a slower pace, then you could get it.

    Personally, for that trailer I'd lean more toward a Lexus GX460 which has a V8, or a V8 or diesel Jeep Grand Cherokee/Dodge Durango.
  • Not a recommended row vehicle. It is designed as cuv since first introduced. Number 1 attributed: move people, number 2 carry dog in rear
    Not designed for off-road use nor towing.
  • IIRC, the Pilot is not rated for a WDH and is not recommended for towing such as your HTT. I could be wrong...it's been known to happen. Have you considered something like an Expy or a Sequoia?? Likely others will have more solid info. Thinking what you're interested in as a tow vehicle and what's suitable may not be the same thing.