Weight distribution and brake control

Hmmm. It says for the fastway e2 I need to tighten the ball to 600 ft lbs. that could be a problem unless I buy a 200 dollar torque wrench. Then I'm into the higher cost of the Andersen which appears to be easier to install. 

Originally posted by cjscinta Hmmm. It says for the fastway e2 I need to tighten the ball to 600 ft lbs. that could be a problem unless I buy a 200 dollar torque wrench. Then I'm into the higher cost of the Andersen which appears to be easier to install.

The manual for my 600/6000 E2 calls for 450 lb-ft on the ball and 250 lb-ft on the shank bolts. I bought a torque wrench because I didn't have one and have never bought a tool I regretted, but you don't have to. The entire hitch installation and setup can be accomplished without the final torquing. Once you get everything tweeked you can get someone to supply the final tightening. For that a trailer shop or auto garage can torque it for a few bucks. Some auto parts stores like Autozone will rent tools for a nominal fee. 

The Andersen has its own set of issues. It is good for sway but not so good for weight distribution, but you don't need that much weight distro. Just enough to suppress the bounce. Andersen has had a lot of trouble with their cone material. So far they've been good about replacing the cones, but the long term jury is still out.

What is the Tow rating on your truck? Could be as High as 6500lb.  Even at 5000lb  it's good enough to tow it home. Tell the dealer to pound sand and do it yourself for less than half that. I recommend it for the Tacoma, and wouldn't tow with a fully loaded trailer (and truck) without it, You never know what some moron will do that makes you do an evasive maneuver. 

Charlie or anyone: Does anyone know the difference between the techshioma P 2 and P 3 brake control?

Ok Charlie. The p3 it is. I am buying a new 179 from the dealer and I decided against paying for all the dealer prep fees which would have been almost 2000 extra.  Therefore I don't get a battery with it or a walk through, wash, systems check, or a full tank of propane. I can deal. But what is the best battery to buy for it? I thought I read something about a golf cart battery? Are there any other concerns I should have when I pick it up?