1999 Towing Package

[Otter526]

I bought a 99 4runner SR5 without the factory installed towing package. I now need to tow a small trailer. What do I need to do so that my truck is safe while towing?

1. Any suggestions on a brand of hitch?
2. I have been reading that I may need a transmission cooler. Is this really necessary? If so, suggestions on brand?
3. Anything else.

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[Brian757]

Just go with a trusted brand. You honestly get what you pay for, so keep that in mind while shopping. Brands like U-Haul, Reese, Curt, Hidden Hitch, Smittybilt, etc.

In terms of preparation for towing, some useful modifications would be:

• Upgraded Front Disc Brakes (199mm or 231mm Tundra Calipers/Brakes)
• Trans Cooler (Tranny will be undergoing more work, so ruling out pink milkshake is a must)
• Air-Lift System in the Rear Coils (Prevents Bottoming Out while towing)
• Complete Inspection of front/rear suspension systems
• Complete Inspection of front/rear braking systems
• Onboard utility chain (For one reason or another -- would be useful for wrapping tow mount or tying down material)

I'm sure there's more, just can't think of anything else at the moment.

 

[4x4mike]

If you have an auto a tranny cooler is a good idea even without towing.

I've got a '99 with an aftermarket Hidden Hitch. I use it for my cargo basket and bike rack (non-towing duties) so think of it as money well spend. Most receivers (factory and aftermarket) will most likely be bolt on units that don't require drilling holes. Since we have a exposed frame it is a pretty easy task.

Tapping into the brake lights for wiring is easy and there are good youtube videos showing you how to do it.

I have a 450 pound, empty, utility trailer that I pull with my '99, 5 speed, 4runner. I've got a manual transmission so I can tailor my rpms with the street, highway, terrain. With an auto you pretty much run with it but I'd probably push the ECT button but I don't have much experience with that.

If this is occasional, flat and light towing I would just make sure you brakes and cooling system are in good working order. No real modifications are necessary.

 

[T4R2014]

Turn overdrive off while towing.

 

[98OzarksRunner]

You need to go to the junkyard and buy a factory hitch for $50 and then buy this trailer wiring harness kit for $29 shipped. You now have the factory towing package.

Amazon.com: Hopkins 43415 Plug-In Simple Wiring Kit for Toyota 4Runner 1996-2002: Automotive

For less than $100 and two hours work you're done. (Be sure and get the 'nut stick' things that go inside the frame rails for the factory hitch or you'll spend a lot more time trying to rig something up. These are the nuts that the hitch bolts into, but they are mounted on a bar since you can't get a wrench inside the frame to hold them.) A transmission cooler is a good idea too (add another $75 and another two hours).