How good is the stock trailer hitch?

[GarySp]

On the FJ Forum it was often suggested to replace the factory hitch especially if using a weight distributing hitch, how good is the stock hitch on my 2020 T4R?

 

[fkheath]

Since the max trailer weight of the 4Runner is 5000 lbs, there is no need for a weight distribution hitch. The stock trailer hitch is more than capable of doing that.

 

[Pedro367]

Since the max trailer weight of the 4Runner is 5000 lbs, there is no need for a weight distribution hitch. The stock trailer hitch is more than capable of doing that.

From my towing experience with my 4R, if I had to tow 5k on a regular basis I'd buy a new tow hitch....attached to a better tow vehicle.

 

[jmcelroy]

From my towing experience with my 4R, if I had to tow 5k on a regular basis I'd buy a new tow hitch....attached to a better tow vehicle.

Ah, come on . . . who doesn't love pulling mountain passes in third gear at 35mph while the engine absolutely screams at 4k rpms?

Good times.

<we cross the Sierras with a pop-up behind our 4R many times per year>

Jason

 

[baldrik78]

Your tow hitch is rated for 5k lbs. It says that right in the manual. If you need to tow more, you need a different vehicle. I regularly tow my 3500 lbs boat/trailer. It does just fine, as long as I'm not trying to go over the pass - even then it still tows, just slowly.

4k RPM @ 35 MPH sounds about right lol

 

[djeepin]

uphill and towing, 4k RPM @35 MPH sounds about right in 2nd gear, not in 3rd.
4K is close to max torque. doing it in 3th gear just burning transmission. I bet tranny fluid is black now. You may love sound of screaming engine, but it is transmission that is dying.

 

[Whippersnapper02]

On the FJ Forum it was often suggested to replace the factory hitch especially if using a weight distributing hitch, how good is the stock hitch on my 2020 T4R?

The OEM hitch is fine. The weight distribution portion can be added and is simply used to control tongue weight so you don't have too much or too little on the towing vehicle. It will not increase towing capacity.