Many people like the idea of owning horses and need to transport them but they do not want to own a full-size truck. There are a number of options available when it comes to hauling a horse trailer with a 4Runner.
Can you pull a horse trailer with a 4Runner? Yes, you can pull a horse trailer with a Toyota 4Runner.
The 4Runner is a great vehicle for pulling trailers because it has a lot of power for a mid-size SUV and can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Given that the 4Runner tow capacity is 5,000 pounds and that you should leave extra weight capacity for the actual horse, you should look at some of the lighter weight horse trailers available on the market.
One big clarification, 4Runners with the proper setup will only be able to tow a single horse. If you are looking to tow two or more horses then you will likely need a larger tow vehicle that can handle the extra weight capacity.
What Do Light Weight Horse Trailers Weigh?
Most lightweight horse trailers weigh between 1,800 and 3,000 pounds. The average horse trailer weighs about 3,500 pounds. The average weight of a full-size horse trailer is around 4,000 to 5,000 pounds.
There are a few lightweight horse trailers that weigh under 2,000 pounds but they are not as common. If you are looking for a lightweight horse trailer, you might have to search a little bit harder to find one that meets your needs.
Most lightweight horse trailers are made from aluminum which is why they are so lightweight. If you are looking for a lightweight horse trailer, be sure to check the weight of the trailer before you buy it. You don’t want to end up with a trailer that is too heavy.
Brenderups horse trailers are around 1,800 pounds empty for the 2 horse model, which is the lightest weight horse trailer on the market. Unfortunately, Brenderup quit producing trailers in the United States and as of the writing of this article, it appears no dealers of Brednerups remain in the US. If you search on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or eBay you can often find used Brenderup trailers for sale.
Consider Modifications To Your 4Runner To Make It Safer and Tow Better
Consider installing airbags on your 4Runner. They will help keep the rear of the 4Runner from sagging.
When towing a trailer, airbags can be a great way to improve stability and safety. By inflating the airbags, you can level the vehicle and prevent it from having too much weight on the rear of the vehicle. This is especially useful on uneven terrain or when making turns. Additionally, airbags can help to absorb some of the shock from bumps and potholes, making the ride quality within the vehicle better. If you frequently tow a large load, investing in airbags may be a wise decision.
Another modification that is worth the investment is purchasing a weight-distribution hitch. A weight-distribution hitch is a device that helps to distribute the weight of a trailer evenly over the axles of the towing vehicle. This can help to improve handling, braking, and overall stability. In some cases, it can also help to reduce wear and tear on the tires. If you are considering purchasing a trailer, be sure to ask about the benefits of a weight-distribution hitch.
Lastly, consider the installation of sway bars. Sway bars are an essential component of any towing setup. Also known as stabilizer bars, sway bars help to keep your trailer from swaying back and forth as you travel down the road.
Without a sway bar, your trailer would be constantly moving from side to side, making it difficult to control. Sway bars work by connecting the trailer to the frame of your tow vehicle. As the trailer moves side to side, the sway bar transfers the movement to the frame of the vehicle, which helps to stabilize the trailer. Sway bars are particularly important when traveling on windy days or in areas with high traffic. By keeping your trailer stable, sway bars can help to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth ride for both you and your passengers.
Another area you may want to investigate is installing mirrors better suited for towing. The 4Runner has mirrors that are pretty large compared to most of the mirrors on SUVs today but sometimes you may want to enhance this aspect of your vehicle too.
When towing a trailer, it is important to have mirrors that give you a clear view of both the trailer and the road behind you. Many mirrors on the market today are designed specifically for towing, and they can be a great addition to any vehicle. While some mirrors simply attach to the existing mirrors on your car, others replace them completely. Some mirrors even come with features like extendable arms, so you can adjust them to get the perfect view. No matter what type of mirror you choose, be sure to test it out before hitching up and hitting the road.
Conclusion
Wrapping up, it is possible to tow a horse trailer with a 4Runner, but there are some modifications that should be made first. Installing airbags, a weight-distribution hitch, and sway bars can help make towing safer and more stable. Additionally, it may be wise to invest in mirrors designed for towing. By making these modifications, you can ensure a better towing experience.
