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Topic ClosedTowing vehicle - Event Date: 12 Oct 2016 - 25 Dec 2016

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Chuckfsc View Drop Down
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Joined: 04 Oct 2016
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Direct Link To This Post Calendar Event: Towing vehicle
    Posted: 14 Oct 2016 at 2:30pm
Hello Stephen
Thanks for the good advice. I knew about the weight distribution hitch. Do you think I also need an oil cooler and electronic brakes? Also would you recommend a larger radiator and fan installed?
Thanks
Chuck

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StephenH View Drop Down
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Joined: 29 Nov 2015
Location: Wake Forest, NC
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 13 Oct 2016 at 10:08pm
Since your Sienna does not have a factory tow package, but an add-on hitch instead, there are a couple of things to note.

First, the hitch may be rated at 4500 lbs, but the vehicle is still rated at 3500 lbs. That is your limit. A heavier-duty hitch does not increase the vehicle's tow capacity. Second, since it is an aftermarket hitch, you should also get a transmission cooler installed. Third, while not strictly necessary, a heavy-duty alternator would not be bad to install either. Fourth, with this vehicle, a weight-transfer hitch with stability is going to be essential. One of these three should be purchased: Equal-i-zer 4-way stabilization hitch; Fastway E-2 hitch; or Andersen No-Sway weight distribution hitch. There are others also, but make sure it combines sway control with weight transfer.

One other thing that we have found that helps. We added an AeroPlus wind deflector from PurpleLine USA. Another one is the AeroShield by Icon. These improve the airflow between the tow vehicle and trailer. Our experience is that it increases our mileage significantly. This is optional though.

I don't think the Sienna's engine is turbocharged. You will find it works okay on flat land and hills. However, it would probably struggle at higher elevations and mountains. This is not to say it won't work. Just understand that you won't be going up 10% inclines at normal highway speed.
StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

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Leo B View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 13 Oct 2016 at 7:56pm
We tow our 179 with our Dodge Grand Caravan have for years. We tow in Vermont and New Hampshire and up and down the east coast. We are quite happy with its power and we average 13.5-16.5 mpg when towing depending on the wind.
Leo & Melissa Bachand
2025 Ford Transit Camper van
2017 Ford F150
2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk
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2015 Rpod 179
2010 Rpod 171
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Chuckfsc View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 13 Oct 2016 at 7:11pm
Hello Everyone:
I am thinking to purchase a new Model 179. I have a new Toyota Sienna Minivan. It is rated at 3500 lbs. It has a heavy duty uhaul hitch rated at 4500lbs with 2 in receiver, but it does not have the factory trailer towing package. Lots of people tell me I should not use it to tow the RPod. The RPod has a dry weight of 2640. Has anyone had experience with a minivan pulling their RPod? I would appreciate any guidance on this issue. 



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