Tacoma Travel Trailer Towng: Read If You Consider Buying An RV

That's what I was wondering. The Sport tow package comes with the transmission cooler and engine cooler but I didn't know if that was enough or if I still needed to upgrade. It has a 6800 lb tow capacity so wasn't sure if it was fully equipped to actually work that hard. I see many references to a braking system, of course the trailer itself has a braking system that I recently had inspected but would that benefit from any upgrade? And I'm already looking into several of the apps mentioned here to monitor tranny temps. Just wanting to be sure we stay safe so thank you for the info!

 

Minimum you need is a brake controller and a weight distribution hitch.

I towed 5,500 lbs for several years using just the OEM aux transmission cooler but the temps were getting higher that I liked (I monitor them using an ultragauge) so I installed a larger aux cooler in line with the factory cooler.

 

Sorry, stupid question.... how does a brake controller work and what is the overall effect of having/not having one?

We have an Andersen WDH, big difference!

And what size tranny cooler would be sufficient for towing (considering I already have the tow-package cooler). Is it easier to link two or change out?

 

Read through this thread, it will answer a lot of your questions.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/the-tacoma-towing-bible.4031/

 

A brake controller basically senses when you push the brakes on your truck and applies them at the same time on the trailer. There is also usually a manual lever or button you can push to use just the trailer brakes (good if it is starting to sway as just applying the trailer's brakes can pull back on it and help straighten it out).

I'm not saying don't get another tranny cooler if that's what you feel, but honestly that is the first time I've seen someone saying you need another on top of the factory one. Maybe before you spend that much extra time and money just get something to monitor the temps and see if they get really bad and then go from there. It's up to you though and what you feel comfortable with.

 

Gearcruncher is considered one of the gurus around here when it comes to transmissions.
Here is a great thread that will answer a lot of questions about adding a cooler
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...l-toyotas-write-up-with-many-pictures.526283/

 

OK well I'll stick with my 6MT and let you guys sort out the AT then.

 

That's the spirit...go MT or go home

 

I guess I'm confused, isn't there already a brake controller through the cord that plugs into the truck?

 

The wiring is there, but you need a device to actually run it. There is a harness behind the driver's side kick panel you can plug one into.

 

Yep.... prewired for a controller, but it doesn’t come stock like some of the big boys. My favorite is the redarc, super clean install if you get the right parts. Tekonsha is another really popular controller.

 

Yep, almost looks factory!

 

I went with the Tekonsha Primus IQ. Install was super easy, just needed to order the harness for my truck, and now I just need to get the settings entered.

 

I have read through all the replies and it helps, thanks all. I have a 2022 2wd SR5 3.5L. I am about to pickup an inTech camper that will max out just under 2k. It will be just me with camping gear and maybe a kayak. My biggest concern was whether I should have a trans cooler installed. I mostly plan on east coast sized mountains but not all the time. I guess it would be prudent to have a trans cooler installed. I drive like an old man because, well, I am an old man so there is no worry about towing at excessive speeds. I am in no hurry.
Just wanted to say thanks for all the input, it helped narrow down what I will do.
I am used to towing large TT's (30ft) but with full sized trucks. Now I am downsizing everything since it's just me.

 

Definitely add a trans cooler. Your trans will appreciate it.

 

Thanks Scott, I will add one. The price for a trans cooler far outweighs a new tranny and since I plan to drive this till I will it to a grandkid, I will take care of it. I appreciate your reply.
Not being too mechanically adept, I will have someone else install it.

 

There’s a third party kit being sold on TW that’s pieced together out of solid parts and controller. It’s a little pricey, but a solid upgrade from what I recall. You could probably have someone do the install.