Get tow package or not?

Not only that....but the OEM towing package is engineered with the truck and all the parts work together. PLUS, covered via Toyota warranty.

Aftermarket parts will be slapped together on a 'separate' basis, they don't work together because they weren't engineered that way. They'll be installed via DIY Or by a shop..... and separate parts & labor warranties don't always play well together if something goes wrong. Usually...aftermarket parts aren't honored for 3/36 like your OEM warranty is. And labor? Does your local shop warranty his installation for 3 years?? Doubt it....

 

Other bonuses are higher resale value, plus added protection in the back. I've been rear ended slowly and my receiver saved my bumper from getting messes up.

 

The tranny cooler is very worthwhile when you drive in the mountains even if you are not towing. Heat kills tranny fluid and dead tranny fluid kills trannys. Driving in the mountains is a lot more challenging for a tranny than driving anywhere else (on road). The tranny is more loaded on hills, and shifting a lot under load. IMHO, it's worth it to get the towing package even if you never tow anything. Also, they are in demand if you ever sell it.

 

Don't forget you will appeal to more people with the tow package for resale. I have the tow package on both of my Tacoma's and had no towing that I did with them on a normal basis but I am in the market for a bay boat and now my trucks are prepared to tow it.

 

Another vote for "Get the Tow Pkg"!!

When I was buying my 2013, I test drove a TRD Sport
& was just about to sign the papers mulling over the numbers when *bing* ....
a lightbulb dimly lit above my head
so I left the sales guy's desk & ran out & checked!
Aghast there was no tow pkg
I didn't even know some TRD models did not have it.
Went inside & told the sales guy that factory tow was deal breaker find me a truck with it.
My last 2006 had an aftermarket on it which was ok but really wanted the factory tow pk next time around.
Definitely a worthwhile option imo.

 

Yep, I didn't have a tow package on my last Yota, and this time it was priority #1. I tow all the time, and even though my last truck didn't have the factory package it did fine. But a factory hitch, harness, trans cooler... so worth it.

 

Ya, the factory tow package is kind of a no-brainer. You get a lot of bang for the buck. I'm looking at getting a hybrid travel trailer and I'm glad I have the Class IV factory setup for $600. All I need is a WDH with sway control and the trailer brake controller. Now the only question is which brand of travel trailer, Jayfeather, Starcraft, R-Pod, Dutchmen Kodiak.

 

So the dealer can install the oil/tranny cooler and upgraded alternator? Salesman said they couldn't....

 

^ He believes the salesman...

 

I think they have to come from the factory with it. Don't believe the dealer can add the pieces.

EDIT: At least not all the pieces (alternator & oil/tranny cooler).

 

Disclaimer: I didn't read anything but the OP.

Get the Tow Package. It's an extra 600 bucks and gets you a suplemental oil cooler, supplemental transmission cooler, upgraded battery, upgraded alternator, class 4 hitch, a 7 pin trailer connector thing (blanking on what that's called), and it's prewired for a brake controller.

Well worth the $600 if you ask me.

 

The tow package on my 13 SR5 was $650.00.
It came with:
-Class-IV towing reciever hitch
-Transmission cooler
-Oil cooler
-larger alternator
-Heavy duty battery
-Connector w/converter, and trailer sway control

^Read directly from my window sticker.

 

I like the tow package primarily for the bigger battery and bigger alternator. If you add a winch these are nearly mandatory. Also if you like a big stereo or an on-board compressor you need all the battery capacity (and ability to keep it charged!) you can get. The transmission oil cooler is great if actually towing, driving in the mountains a lot or slow off-roading. And having that wiring harness in place is great if you tow.