No tow package

Hi, So I have a 2017 Tacoma 4x4 sport which did not come with a tow package. The sales guy told me I could add the tow package at my local U-Haul for much cheaper. I actually like the clean factory look where the 7pin/4pin connector is in the bumper. Has anyone installed an aftermarket wiring harness and wired it to the factor connector? If so, could you share any tips, parts # of what you bought and how you ran the wires? Thanks, LK

 

The tow package also includes the cooler which does NOT come from U-Haul.

 

The tow package cannot be added at a Uhaul for cheaper. A tow package is not just a hitch it includes a larger battery, bigger alternator, cooler, etc. Adding a true tow package after market would cost substantially more. Probably a few thousand if you paid for someone to install everything. Factory tow package is like $750.

The difference in tow capacity on a truck that has a factory tow package to one that doesn’t is 6,500 and 3,500 respectively.

Never trust a car salesman. Ever.

 

Best answer

 

O.P.

The tow package "transmission cooler" is a big deal if you are towing a lot and heavy. The tow package also has an "oil cooler" for the engine oil. Most states have a 3 day contract back out period. How long have you had the truck? Is a tow hitch is all you really want and need?

P.S. Welcome to the TW

P.P.S. I am assuming you have a automatic transmission. I don't know what a MT comes with.

 

This.

I'll also add.... Always get the tow package if available. Even if you don't tow. It usually comes with extra stuff that helps promote engine/transmission longevity.

 

Class-IV towing hitch receiver, ATF cooler (not available on M/T), engine oil cooler, power steering cooler, 130-amp alternator, 4- and 7-pin connector with converter, and Trailer-Sway Control (TSC) (V6 only)

 

Ouch.

 

Thanks for your replies. I plan on towing a small boat to the river probably 4 times a month so the aftermarket hitch and harness should suffice. I just called the dealership and they cannot add the tow package to the vehicle. This is something that has to come from the factory so I sh*t outta luck on adding the tow package. Damn sales man and to think I was getting a deal.

 

We need pictures of the truck and boat.

 

Weclome to the TW circus.....!!

 

Tow package is a deal and nice to have.

The hitch and trans cooler are arguably the two most important. Brake controller is a plus too. An aftermarket trans cooler has the benefit of not being routed through the radiator with potential for failure and contamination of fluids.

Etrailer is a good source.

Here's a search link on what other members have done.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/search/...ler&t=post&o=date&c[title_only]=1&c[node]=186

 

I'm about to pull the hitch off my truck when I install my new bumper. If you would like it let me know, I'm sure I can ship it to you via grey hound pretty cheap.

 

Sad. The towing package was only like a $700 add-on IIRC on the Sport/ORs. I hate the sales guy didn't treat you right and perhaps just sold you what he had in your options (that didn't have a towing package) on this b/c I don't think you'll come out cheaper going aftermarket.

Interested in the outcome so let us know how it turns out for you and good luck!

 

Good advice. I don't really tow and only do light to medium hauling. I got the tow package for the overbuilt components.

 

Ok, reality talking here... all of you are freaking him out about the factory tow package which he just does not need. Yes, nice to have, especially on a TRD, but it's not needed for light duty hauling for most weekend warriors. For a small, light fishing boat you do not need the trans cooler, bigger alt/battery or a brake controller pre-wire. You can simply buy a hitch at yes- U-haul would be fine, and a plug and play wiring harness. I towed with my first Tacoma for 220k miles a small aluminum boat in the summer and single place snowmobile trailer in the winter and it was fine. Cheaper than you can buy the tow package. As long as we are talking less than 1000lbs or so you can buy a $160 Class IV hitch and a $50 plug and play harness and be absolutely fine. To be honest, I towed my first 2 place clamshell with exactly that setup and even that was fine and it was close to 2200lbs.

 

She*

When she initially asked the question she didn’t state what/how often she was towing. She still has not told us gross weight.

It is incredibly easy to go close to or over 3,500lbs with a boat. A nice bass boat for river fishing could put her right at capacity.

She might be just fine and not need the tow package at all. Although it is really important to note what a full tow package is for the future.

 

Not to hijack the thread but i have a question, i know about the tranny cooler in a manual taco But does the manual come with the other stuff?

 

Yes the manual does get the goodies too, also the tow package used to come with a bigger battery on the 2nd Gens

 

Good info in this post. Salesman told me the same BS and just assumed it was true. I ended up getting the tow package anyway.