Prepping 2017 TRD OR for Towing

I am in the midst of getting a small camping trailer (~2000 lbs hiker trailer). I have a mostly stock 2017 TRD OR double cab w/ tow package. No lifts, stock tire size, suspension.

I am hoping this setup will handle forest roads and the likes. Hitch will be a lock & roll type.

Do I need to add something for my suspension? Any shop recommendations in the East Valley/Phx area to get this kind of work done?

Also not sure if I need a brake controller - I assume the truck does not have one, but probably wired for it. Recommendations?

Any other recommendations for setup?

 

Redarc controller. Simple install!

I just put Ride Rite airbags to tow my aluma trailer with quads on it. It squatted without them. Also an easy install (there are a couple of bolts on each side that take patience in tightening).

 

I just sold my jumping jack trailer, 6x8, with a lift and matched 33's for added clearance and extra tires. Ran it loaded with gear for hunts. Unloaded it ran around 1300 lbs. Trailer brakes were optional but i had them added anyway. Ended up never installing a brake controller and was fine. Just ordered a turtleback trailer and will install a redarc controller for piece of mind. In technical situations the ability to work your trailer brakes manually can make a big difference. I just added a leaf to the rear and that has worked well. SDHQ is the only east valley location I have used. I would get brake controller and research and decide on airbags or additional leaf spring. No harshness in my trucks ride with the added leaf and I also run an ARE topper so I always have weight on the bed.

 

X2 on the Redarc brake controller. I picked up one of these cnc mounts for it:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/my-redarc-tow-pro-liberty-install.773860/

Possibly air bags in the rear or some better shocks like Bilstein 5160 with an icon rxt leaf pack. Also, keep an eye on your trans temps and change the trans and diff fluids more frequently.

https://www.shocksurplus.com/produc...MIlrHV7-z1_AIVMS-tBh0anwipEAQYASABEgLPQvD_BwE

 

SDHQ (Gilbert) , State 48 Overland (Mesa) , Wescott Designs (North Phoenix) are some shop options in AZ.

 

I'm seriously looking at the Ride Rites. Seems like people love them and barely notice them unless they're in use, or they hate them. Same w/ accompanying Daystar cradles.

Have you noticed any difference in daily driving?

 

Nice. One of my options is to suck it up and buy new leaf packs for the back. I have a shell, too, although stock doesn't seem to sag much, even with a two person kayak on top. But, it's easy to underestimate the load in the truck.

Really appreciate the recommendations

 

Thanks for the link on the controller switch. That is clean.


You think the upgrade in the bilsteins is necessary or worth it with a leaf upgrade? The 4600s on the stock OR have issues?

 

The factory shocks are decent, the leaf springs tend to sag a bit with heavy loads. I'm not sure if the factory shocks are long enough to accommodate bigger leaf springs. Airbags and the brake controller are probably your best bet.

 

I have noticed the "stiffening" of the springs because of the clamping force of the bottom bracket. Not a big deal to me, but I can understand why some complain. With a little weight, it is unnoticeable.

 

Li

Shock length/ Great point that I did not think about. Living in my own bubble sometimes. I am running the Bilsteins as well, so I suppose you could run the setup stock and see and go from there. I went with the Bilsteins because I lifted the truck, the add a leaf for the cap and trailer combo. The leaf pack may cost more but at the same time it would most likely out live my system regarding the add a leaf. At 73,000 and 5 years it still works though.