Tow Package

Is an after-market two package worth looking into? I'm not necessarily talking about just getting a hitch from, say, U-Haul, but something a little extra. A friend told me that the dealership nearby would add a 'tow package' for around $650 which includes the hitch, a large transmission coolant resevoir and some other additions that I can't recall right now. Largely, I don't think I'll be towing that much weight. At most, I only forsee myself towing maybe one of those U-Haul trailers when I PCS in the future. Any opinions?

 

I would definitely add a transmission cooler, one with a thermostatically controlled fan would be the way to go. I saw some pretty high pan temps going through Colorado mountains. I was towing a camper.

The factory hitch is class IV, vs the typical aftermarket which is class III. I think the class III is good for as much as the tacoma is.

The factory package also has an oil cooler, which is a bit more difficult to add aftermarket.

Lastly there's the 130 amp alternator, but I don't think that's a huge issue. Especially with uhaul type trailers, since they don't have electric brakes.

 

I would get the package, because you never know.

 

Does yours have the transmission cooler?

 

I wouldnt really worry about it to be honest. Im pretty sure the base package already has the stock into the radiator transmission cooler. (correct me if im wrong)

How much do you plan on hauling, id say just stick a ball on the stock bumper and call it good.

 

If you are not going to be using or needing the full package I would not spend the money. Put a ball on the bumper when the time comes and pull with that if you need to.

 

The factory tow package includes a larger alternator, a larger battery, an oil cooler, a transmission fluid cooler, the 7pin round wiring harness and a class IV hitch which bolts to the frame and the bumper. Is that what would be installed?

 

I would do it. Heck, I did it.
Added the oem oil cooler (wasn't cheap, but was worth it)
Added a B&M trans cooler. Definitely helped this summer with the 100*+ weather.
Also added the toyota 4flat trailer wire kit, and added the other wires to make a 7way work.

At some point, I may add the higher amp alternator and battery, but for regular towing, it really doesn't matter.

 

If your buying a new one get the package it won't add $650 to the price if your dealing on a new one. It's well worth what ever the price for the piece of mind and the quality is a lot better than aftermarket.

 

Yes, I have the factory tow package. I'll have to double check all of my old posts, I only towed the camper once.

Sticker weight on the trailer was 4900lb, and I carried it as dry as possible. (Empty tanks). We drove from north of Salt Lake to Salida. I saw pan temps of over 230 on the steeper and longer grades.