Do I need a low rider?

DurangoTaB

After owning our T@B for two years you'd think I'd know...but on a recent trip I discovered my hitch was was 15" (not 16) to the top of the ball when hooked up to my Tacoma.  BUT...the trailer still isn't level, needing even more drop than the 3-1/4" I already have.  Are there any Tacoma owners who can share their hitch configuration?  Thanks!

R&B

I have a TRD Sport model and use a 4" drop. 

DurangoTaB

Thanks...I was thinking that'd be my next hitch...disregarding the 16" advice in favor of level towing.  My Tacoma bucks when we hit bumps, esp on paved surfaces.  My hope us a more level T@B will help...

DurangoTaB

@R&B What brand hitch did you get?  I had to go to 3 places to find a 4" drop, and ended up with a Reese, forged (vs. welded), rated 5,000# instead of 6,000#.  
New: 15-1/2" off the ground, Old (3-1/4" drop): 16-3/8" off the ground.  Should make the T@B tow more level...

   

ChanW

Durango, your Tacoma isn't one with the recall for the faulty rear leaf springs is it?

A friend's Tacoma had that problem, 2010 model year I think, and Toyota replaced them, way after any warranty period. Might be other years too. Dunno.

Edit: heh, just realized you have the opposite problem. Please ignore sleepy post. 

R&B

Not sure of the brand but I believe I bought it at Menards

TabberJohn

I was wondering about the 16" rule in the manual. Seems a bit nose high.

ericnliz

TabberJohn, I think that is basically a "rule of thumb" in that you also need to take in to consideration how much the tow vehicle is loaded, and what type tow vehicle it is.

source3

Just swap in a new Dexter axle (http://dexteraxle.com/i/u/6149609/f/product_flyers/Torflex.pdf) with a 45° down angle to raise the T@B.  Ok, you may have to move the axle mounts a little so your tires do not rub...nothing that a little welding won't take care off.

Vikings

After installing a drawtite receiver on a GMC Terrain, and standing on it to lower rear end (close to trailer tongue weight) I chose a stinger for 16 inch height. 
Seems I expect perfection or can't measure...'cuz I now have 3 stingers. 

DurangoTaB

@Vikings...and as a result does the T@B tow level? 

Vikings

Perfect...depending on which stinger I choose to use...

tabasco_jim

12" drop on mine to get to 16"

leenscottfl

6 inch drop for a height of 18 inches to top of the ball on Wrangler Unlimited. Drives well and is level. I would say to do what works with your tow vehicle.