Can anybody shine light on use of Weight Distribution systems when towing with Toyota Prado , I have been told Toyota recommend not to use them , I feel it would be safer to use them

Where did you hear that Toyota don't recommend a weight distribution hitch?
You may need air bags fitted or better springs which is common practice on a Prado.

IMHO only a fool tows without a WDH especially if the caravan in the picture is the caravan you are towing.

Mate I have been talking to people with Toyota Prado at caravan parks who say you void your warranty with you use weight distribution hitch , and last night rang a mate who has a Prado who is on the road who has been told he should not be using his hitch but his wife wont let him not use it , I agree with you I wouldn't not use one but am thinking of buying a Prado , I have just sent an email to Haymans hitch and will wait for there reply and post it when I get it

-- Edited by brickies on Sunday 29th of August 2010 09:18:43 PM

Toyota warranty requirements leave towing owners damned if they do and damned if they don't

Cracked Toyota cross member

Toyota is confusing owners who tow with ambiguous towbar and Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) requirements. For warranty to apply Toyota requires a genuine Toyota towbar for its LandCruiser. 

It recommends a WDH when towing caravans and trailers. Toyota does not make a WDH. If a non-genuine WDH is used warranty cover can be denied. 

If a non-genuine Toyota towbar is fitted then owners have no warranty on the chassis from Toyota. 


-- Edited by brickies on Sunday 29th of August 2010 09:55:47 PM

Like yourself I wouldnt consider towing without a WDH. If this is going to void your warranty by using it towing with a Prado, I for one would be looking for an alternative vehicle. Just my thoughts.

Hi Brickies, could your friend have a Grande or Kakadu Prado as I believe these top spec models have self-leveling suspension, same drama as with the Discovery

Grande, I know they are self leveling but dose the hitch do more than just leveling

Who told you that Toyota recommend not to use them? I think you should use some better information. What does your vehicle handbook say in the towing section? I have just consulted the RACQ Towing Mass Limits guide. There are two entries for the Parado. One for 96 - 03 models and one for 2003 on. In both year range it says "all models." Under the conditions it states "Load level hitch req." I do not think that they would not be stating things like this unless it was supplied by Toyota or gleaned from Toyota literature. I suggest you check further and do not except waffle you picked up at happy hour or anywhere else from people who do not back up their info with written evidence.

Hi Guys I drive 2005 prado with WDS had it serviced yesterday and talking to the guys regarding towing aspects with prado they never mentioned anything about that to me ( maybe its the new modle prado )
I personaly would not tow with out it.

currently in Carins

Hi All, We have a disco with self leveling and have had no problems in 120th. I watch the LR forum and have not heard of any problems? Its the best thing all round. Have never had sway even when we were pushed on to the side of the road @ 100ks. Make,s life easy when hooking on and unhooking the van.. Have hooked up and it looked bad, drove 10mts and level as.. Very under rated tug..I dont know how this would be if there was no SL fitted.?Or anti sway built in..Just drive with in your limits, easy.. BobnBev