After-market hitch, etc.

[fongster]

I got a quote from a local U-haul to install a hitch with mount and ball, wiring, and a trans cooler for about $460 if I remember correctly. They did a hitch on my Subaru Outback--no probs with it. How complicated is the trans cooler install? I guess they do them all the time. Am I messing with my factory warranty by adding an after-market cooler? Thanks.

EDIT: I read on E-trailer.com that the Drawtite and Hidden Hitch won't fit with a full-size spare under mounted...it doesn't say that about the Curt..Will the Curt fit carrying the full-size alloy spare?

[edge3333]

What year and model is your Highlander? Does it have the tow prep package?

[dirtraven1]

Originally Posted by fongster

EDIT: I read on E-trailer.com that the Drawtite and Hidden Hitch won't fit with a full-size spare under mounted...it doesn't say that about the Curt..Will the Curt fit carrying the full-size alloy spare?

I have a Curt with the 19" spare and fits fine. +the Curt's bar goes above the tailpipe and not under it so it's less noticeable.

[fongster]

Originally Posted by edge3333

What year and model is your Highlander? Does it have the tow prep package?

It's a 2011 SE and it came w/o tow prep pkg hence me wanting to add the cooler. My boat and trailer are pretty light--just a 15 foot aluminum with a 15 hp outboard, batteries, etc. I probably don't need the cooler but figured it couldn't hurt during summer going up hills, etc. or if a friend with a fiberglass boat like a Whaler (but under the 3500 lb limit) needed me to tow sometime.

[edge3333]

Originally Posted by fongster

It's a 2011 SE and it came w/o tow prep pkg hence me wanting to add the cooler. My boat and trailer are pretty light--just a 15 foot aluminum with a 15 hp outboard, batteries, etc. I probably don't need the cooler but figured it couldn't hurt during summer going up hills, etc. or if a friend with a fiberglass boat like a Whaler (but under the 3500 lb limit) needed me to tow sometime.

The $460 quote seems reasonable considering you don't have the tow package. My 2010 SE had the tow package, and the Valley hitch and harness (Etrailor) cost a little over $200. I installed it myself...took all day because of some knuckle busting/file-to-fit problems. But overall I'm satisfied. The Highlander pulls my 18 foot bass boat in Phoenix, AZ heat with absolutely zero problems. You are going to love your Highlander. I've had mine for just about a year, and it has exceeded my expectations.

[fongster]

Originally Posted by edge3333

The $460 quote seems reasonable considering you don't have the tow package. My 2010 SE had the tow package, and the Valley hitch and harness (Etrailor) cost a little over $200. I installed it myself...took all day because of some knuckle busting/file-to-fit problems. But overall I'm satisfied. The Highlander pulls my 18 foot bass boat in Phoenix, AZ heat with absolutely zero problems. You are going to love your Highlander. I've had mine for just about a year, and it has exceeded my expectations.

Thanks. With the Valley, are you about to mount/access the full-size spare?

[edge3333]

Originally Posted by fongster

Thanks. With the Valley, are you about to mount/access the full-size spare?

My Valley hitch did not interfere at all with the full size tire. ZERO problems with that! My only problem with Valley was a misalignment with the mounting holes. Took a bit of filing,

[lispeej]

My 08 doesn't have a tow pkg. I installed an oem hitch myself. All you need is the basic tools. If you are just towing your small boat, I wouldn't think you need a trans cooler. I tow my small 14' aluminum boat with no problem. I love the look of the oem hitch. It fits nice.