Towing setup for new RP176

Originally posted by JandL •Class II Trailer Hitch mounts directly to the frame for optimum performance, strength, and security.

I should point out that the Honda Odyssey is unibody, which means that it has no frame. I would hope that some sort of reinforcement is done to prevent the hitch from "pulling through" the sheet metal.

Hot topic.  Obviously.  A lot of opinions and many different experiences.  My take is that  a whole lot of towing safety has to do with the nut behind the wheel, as they say.  If you are smart and careful and manage to stay within the limits, you'll likely be okay.  When you exceed the limits things can get wonky quickly.  Some people will say it's still doable, but at the least, there may be legal implications to you if you're in an accident, even if it's not your fault.  As GlueGuy said too, you're taking chances with your kids' well-being as well.

If you can stay within the weight limits or close enough you aren't uncomfortable with the risks, there is still the issue of wear and tear on your towing vehicle, and, quite likely, the overall pleasure (or lack thereof) of going down the road.

If you can do a heavier duty tow vehicle you almost certainly will be happier.  As someone here says, we've never heard anyone complain about having too much tow vehicle.

I'll tow one-off deals where I have to move farm equipment around the county that is clearly over the weight limit of my vehicle, but to go down the road on a pleasure trip, with my wife and kids, I'd much rather color well within the lines.

You did well to check in here.   There is a lot of good information shared here. Ask questions; listen, digest; but what you do is ultimately up to you.  As I said, you obviously touched a nerve this time!

TT

Did you get the Towing Package? A class II hitch is only rated for 3500 lbs. gross trailer weight with a 300 lbs. max trailer tongue weight. On Pages 401-402 of the owner’s manual they talk about towing a Trailer and it’s limits. It also states in the owners manual
Weight distribution hitches
A weight distributing hitch is not recommended for use with your vehicle.
An improperly adjusted weight distributing hitch may reduce handling, stability, and
braking performance.

Fits: LX, EX, EX-L, EX-L RES, EX-L RES & NAVI, EX-L Touring RES & NAVI
You can haul trailers weighing up to 3,500 pounds with the Towing Package. Check out your Owner's Manual for more details on towing with your new Honda.
•Class II Trailer Hitch mounts directly to the frame for optimum performance, strength, and security.
•A choice from 1 7/8" or a 2" receiver designed to support a variety of trailer coupler designs.
•Trailer Hitch includes draw bar, retaining pin, and retaining clip.
•Automatic Transmission Fluid cooler (ATF) helps prevent wear to your transmission while towing.
•Power Steering Fluid cooler (PSF) is designed to keep your vehicle operating at peak performance even under the increased demands of towing.
•Specifically designed cooler air duct assist in directing air flow over the cooler.

I agree that you need to be very aware of the limits of your TV. If your TV is rated at X, and your trailer weighs X + 10%, then you are clearly in an undefined territory. Can you get away with it. Possibly. What's your life, your family, and your equipment worth to you?