Towing an RV? 2015 Limited

[HunterDonahue]

I have recently been looking into buying an RV, nothing huge but nothing small. More midsize. I know the 4R limiteds have a towing capacity of 5,000. How much can I really push that? I am finding that many of the RVs I am wanting are around 4,700 to 5,500 in gross weight. So I was just wondering how much I can really push the capacity? Any recommendations or personal experiences with towing an RV?

2015 Limited 2WD

 

[Bayou_Pro]

Will it tow it, yes. Will you hate towing it, YES!! Just not the right vehicle to tow much with.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[RustyAb]

I tow a small single axle trailer at about 4000lbs fully loaded. It’s not the best, but it gets me there. Just don’t go expecting to break any speed records haha. Just sit back and enjoy the ride. I put airlift bags in the rear, and a weight distributing hitch, and it ended up being much more comfortable to tow without the massive sag in the rear.

 

[Whttxtrail]

Small RV

We recently purchased a Forest River Rpod. Don’t know what you are wanting but for 2, we really like it and the Runner pulls it pretty well. We did install an Andersen WDH and I have Airbags that I haven’t installed yet. I installed the redarc brake controller also.

 

[HunterDonahue]

We recently purchased a Forest River Rpod. Don’t know what you are wanting but for 2, we really like it and the Runner pulls it pretty well. We did install an Andersen WDH and I have Airbags that I haven’t installed yet. I installed the redarc brake controller also.

Which Rpod model is that? How hard was the brake controller install? We are looking to buy an rv for cheapish and then fix it up to sell or keep. 2 people will normally use it but needs to be able to have 4.

 

[Whttxtrail]

Rv

It’s a Rpod 190, the table removes from the front dinette for an extra bed but any more than 3 would be close quarters. The brake controller is plug in play the factory plug is behind the drivers kick panel and plugs directly to the unit, no cutting.

 

[mack10]

If your truck is in top mechanical shape, rust isn't eating away critical structural components, and you have the proper brake controller, towing sway bar, I would do it occasionally. Really depends on the weight of the RV. After towing with 1/2-3/4 pickups I don't consider any 4runner a good tow vehicle unless it's for a max 1500 lb load or so. I know people tow more weight and more frequently, which is fine, but I would never want to push it in these trucks.

 

[meder24]

Do not overlook the legal ramifications should you tow over the stated capacity and be involved in some sort of accident.

 

[HunterDonahue]

It’s a Rpod 190, the table removes from the front dinette for an extra bed but any more than 3 would be close quarters. The brake controller is plug in play the factory plug is behind the drivers kick panel and plugs directly to the unit, no cutting.

Which air lift bags did you buy? I can't find any for 2015 models.

 

[Jetboy]

A few things to consider:

It's a relatively short wheel base vehicle for towing a lot. And the engine/gearing isn't ideal for a heavy trailer at higher speeds. The rear hitch is not super robust - it should be okay for a 5k lb trailer, but not much more. If you want to tow heavier, you'll need to look at an aftermarket hitch, or an OEM one for a Lexus GX460 may fit.

On the plus side; the 4runner has larger brakes than most 1/2 ton trucks. They're larger than a Suburban for example. They are significantly oversized for the vehicle. The brake feel isn't great. But the actual hardware is more than adequate for anything it'll pull.

I would also consider a transmission cooler if you're towing in the 5k lb range.

I would tow a 5klb trailer without too much worry. But, I'd make damn sure it was well balanced and I'd find the most aerodynamic one I could. I'd also count on going pretty slowly and getting passed a lot and getting poor mileage. If I were doing it regularly - I'd find a better tow vehicle. Maybe even just a GX460.

good luck

 

[WindyCity4Runner]

Do not overlook the legal ramifications should you tow over the stated capacity and be involved in some sort of accident.

I'm not your lawyer, and this isn't legal advice, but...
This is the answer. You already know it's wrong ("I was just wondering how much I can really push the capacity?") and you're posting publicly - this doesn't end well.

 

[Whttxtrail]

These

Which air lift bags did you buy? I can't find any for 2015 models.

These are the ones I ordered but haven’t installed them yet.

 

[rb92673]

On the plus side; the 4runner has larger brakes than most 1/2 ton trucks. They're larger than a Suburban for example. They are significantly oversized for the vehicle. The brake feel isn't great. But the actual hardware is more than adequate for anything it'll pull.

I pull a car on a flatbed regularly. It pencils out to about 5k total load. I have a dual axle trailer with one axle of trailer brakes. It pulls and stops adequately. When time to get a new vehicle, I will probably get something bigger for towing. I don't know how well it will do with something with a much greater profile such as a camping or box trailer. No airbags or weight distribution hitch. I don't get much squat, maybe the limited x-reas has something to do with it.

Recently after leaving a race with car on trailer, the trailer connector didn't seat all the way. I always check before I get on the road, but I didn't this time. A few miles down the road traffic came to a sudden stop and that's when I discovered my trailer brakes were not working. Pretty exciting code brown four wheel lockup, not something I want to experience again.

Point being, the 4Runner brakes are pretty good, but you must have trailer brakes and a decent controller if you are pulling much. I have never had any fade going down grades, but I did go through all four sets of pads in under 40k miles.

 

[Lostsoul]

Which Rpod model is that? How hard was the brake controller install? We are looking to buy an rv for cheapish and then fix it up to sell or keep. 2 people will normally use it but needs to be able to have 4.

I dig the Redarc mounting as well. I have a Curt 51170 with included 2 side tape - on steering column for now. Some day I will work up the courage to drill a hole in the console for seamless mounting.

I pull a similar sized 1780 Winnie with an '18 SR5 and it's plenty capable. You won't forget it's back there though

 

[Fern]

Depends on if you will be towing up and over hills or mountains. If yes to mountains, I would say keep it under 4K loaded. Swaying and braking should be your primary concern. I have towed around 9k without trailer breaks locally on flat ground. I was surprised as to how well it did, but I wouldn't want to do it for too long a distance for obvious reasons. Fortunately, I have a 3/4 ton diesel for towing.

 

[jbjones85]

We tow a ~3800 lb (loaded) 20 foot travel trailer. Trailer is a Geo Pro19FBS and is perfect for a week or two with 2 small dogs. We started out looking at larger units but this one was perfect for us and the way we use it.

The mods are in my sig but it tows fine with a WDH and air bags. It's a bit slow going but gets there just fine. Will probably down size to 275/70's when it comes time to change tires out instead of the 285's and possibly look to unload some of the heavier mods that are not being fully utilized. Also carry couple hundred pounds of additional gear in the back of the truck.

To be 100% honest I don't think I would push the 5K limit on these things unless you are completely stock. It would not be a very enjoyable experience. If you want to push that limit and plan on towing it often and/or long distances I would consider a different vehicle. Just my 0.02.

 

[GuardianAgent]

I have a 2005 4R V6 with 100K on it. In 2018, I purchased a Salem Cruise Lite 201BHXL 24ft dry weight 4233lb dual axle travel trailer.

Upgrades for towing:

#1 - Draw-Tite 75155 Max-Frame Receiver which increased the towing capacity from 5K to 6K or 7300K with WDH.

#2 - Tru-Cool - Max LPD47391 47391 Low Pressure Drop Transmission Oil Cooler

#3 - Andersen Mfg 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch

#4- AIR LIFT 60809 1000 Series Rear Air Spring Kit with AIR LIFT 25592 Load Controller II On Board Air Compressor System

#5 - Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control

#6 - Prime Products 30-0104 Clamp-On Tow Mirrors

#7 - BAFX Products 8523900508 for for iOS Devices OBDII Reader

The OBD reader is to monitor trans temp and coolant temp since my 4R has a dummy gauge. If I see the numbers getting too high I can always pull over and let it cool down. Since adding the external trans cooler those temps average 175-185 with 200 max on a steep incline. So far I have towed about 4K miles since I purchased the trailer. After the first few trips my gas mileage was 8-9 mpg. After plenty of research, I added a wind deflector which increased my MPG to 11.5 - 12.5. I know the deflector is ugly and expensive ($350) but increasing my MPG keeps me going longer and eventually will pay for itself.

#8 - ICON 01216 Wind Deflector

I live in TN and purchased the trailer in AL. I towed it from AL back home without the use of the Andersen WDH and I noticed some sway but since adding the WDH I have not seen any sway of any kind. I have yet to drive in high cross winds so I will have to wait and see. I drive in 4 and travel 60 MPH when towing the trailer.

The 4R doesn't like towing up steep inclines and usually drops my speed down to 45-50 mph unless I kick in OD which I rarely do. The only issue that I have to deal with is when passing or being passed by large vehicles (semi's or other travel trailers) which causes a wind vortex which pushes me away or pulls me towards that vehicle. Other than that issue, I am very happy with my 4R towing my travel trailer.

 

[HunterDonahue]

I have a 2005 4R V6 with 100K on it. In 2018, I purchased a Salem Cruise Lite 201BHXL 24ft dry weight 4233lb dual axle travel trailer.

Upgrades for towing:

#1 - Draw-Tite 75155 Max-Frame Receiver which increased the towing capacity from 5K to 6K or 7300K with WDH.

#2 - Tru-Cool - Max LPD47391 47391 Low Pressure Drop Transmission Oil Cooler

#3 - Andersen Mfg 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch

#4- AIR LIFT 60809 1000 Series Rear Air Spring Kit with AIR LIFT 25592 Load Controller II On Board Air Compressor System

#5 - Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control

#6 - Prime Products 30-0104 Clamp-On Tow Mirrors

#7 - BAFX Products 8523900508 for for iOS Devices OBDII Reader

The OBD reader is to monitor trans temp and coolant temp since my 4R has a dummy gauge. If I see the numbers getting too high I can always pull over and let it cool down. Since adding the external trans cooler those temps average 175-185 with 200 max on a steep incline. So far I have towed about 4K miles since I purchased the trailer. After the first few trips my gas mileage was 8-9 mpg. After plenty of research, I added a wind deflector which increased my MPG to 11.5 - 12.5. I know the deflector is ugly and expensive ($350) but increasing my MPG keeps me going longer and eventually will pay for itself.

#8 - ICON 01216 Wind Deflector

I live in TN and purchased the trailer in AL. I towed it from AL back home without the use of the Andersen WDH and I noticed some sway but since adding the WDH I have not seen any sway of any kind. I have yet to drive in high cross winds so I will have to wait and see. I drive in 4 and travel 60 MPH when towing the trailer.

The 4R doesn't like towing up steep inclines and usually drops my speed down to 45-50 mph unless I kick in OD which I rarely do. The only issue that I have to deal with is when passing or being passed by large vehicles (semi's or other travel trailers) which causes a wind vortex which pushes me away or pulls me towards that vehicle. Other than that issue, I am very happy with my 4R towing my travel trailer.

Do you know if it would be possible to install on a 5th gen?

 

[[email protected]]

We recently purchased a Forest River Rpod. Don’t know what you are wanting but for 2, we really like it and the Runner pulls it pretty well. We did install an Andersen WDH and I have Airbags that I haven’t installed yet. I installed the redarc brake controller also.

Did you install the brake controller yourself? And how hard was it to install? Thanks in advance. I'm seriously looking at buying a 4000lbs trailer for use a few times a year and towing with a 2017 Trail edition.

 

[TheWraith]

We recently purchased a Forest River Rpod. Don’t know what you are wanting but for 2, we really like it and the Runner pulls it pretty well. We did install an Andersen WDH and I have Airbags that I haven’t installed yet. I installed the redarc brake controller also.

You have a link to the redarc brake controller