Anyone towing a Micro Minnie 2108TB with Toyota Sequoia?

[Camp11053]

We have not bought a trailer yet, but before making that purchase my first step is to address our tow vehicle.

We have a 2018 Sequoia SR5, 5.7 with tow package, 7,400 pound rated tow capacity, 7,100 GVWR, 790 lb max tongue weight. The curb weight is 5,700 pounds. 6 speed tranny with 4.30 rear-end.

Trying to stay around 80% of tow capacity the 2108 series seems to fit that bill. As to tongue weight we should ok when loaded assuming something close to 600 lbs, but our GVWR is getting close though after adding 3 people and some gear.

I plan on adding a brake controller, and Power stop brake package. The handling can be a bit swishy on winding roads when loaded up so I'm wondering if the rear suspension will be ok with a WDH or if I need to add air bags or increase spring rate?

Reaching out to see if anyone has a similar tow veh and if so how it has performed.

Thanks!

 

[creativepart]

Without limiting your question to the Micro Minnie 2108TB you can see a lot of responses over on our sister website IRV2.com

https://www.irv2.com/forums/f50/is-anyone-using-a-toyota-sequoia-to-tow-a-travel-trailer-485911.html

 

[eatSleepWoof]

I tow with a 2014 LX570, with the same engine that you've got, and a slightly shorter wheelbase, plus significantly heavier vehicle (I'm at about 6500lbs empty).

On power: there is generally plenty for a 2108, and mine is loaded heavier than most (typically 100-140L of extra water/fuel on the tongue, plus anywhere from 200-400lbs of firewood on the back). On very, very, VERY steep grades and high elevation you'll be in 2nd gear if you want to keep 100kph/60mph, but otherwise there's plenty of power to tow this trailer. Expect fuel economy to be abysmal while towing (way more so than normal!).

On brakes: I'm not sure about the Sequoia, by my LX's rotors are somewhat undersized. They're certainly smaller than what's in the Tundra, as the switch to Tundra rotors is a fairly common vehicle mod. With a RedArc trailer brake controller installed, I have no issues slowing down the trailer, even in emergency situations. I'm not sure what your "Power stop brake package" refers to, but I wouldn't change the brake setup without first towing for a while and confirming that it's really necessary. Stick with quality, OEM rotors. I'm a fan of Tundra TRD pads, but they're becoming impossible to find. I wouldn't bother with slotted/drilled aftermarket rotors.

On suspension: my AHC handles the load with ease, but your Sequoia's conventional suspension will likely sag under the tongue weight. A WDH (and anti-sway) hitch is 100% required, but I would go a step further and add airbags. That's a cheap & relatively simple mod which will help significantly while towing, without affecting your day to day ride. I'd pass on stiffer springs - that'll likely result in a noticeably harsher ride when not towing.

 

[Camp11053]

Thanks for the helpful information. The Power Stop brakes are aftermarket rotors and pads suggested for towing, they get good reviews. My Sequoia just hit 50K miles and needs front brakes so figured I would do the swap now. But will do a deeper dive on OEM performance when towing. We do have a few steep grades when heading out of Southern CA, the "Grapevine" and the climb out of Bishop heading to the Sierras. Those would be the most strain on the vehicle.

Any recommendations on air bags? I read a lot of complaints that they leak and not very robust.

Thanks again for taking the time to reply, excellent information.

 

[Ak Mike]

We towed our 2108TB from Missouri to Alaska last year with our 2023 Tahoe and had no issues. Happy to discuss if you have questions. Mike

 

[Wmlunt-WO]

I tow with a Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland which has air shocks and 5.7l hemi.
Towed Maine to Cali and back thru the Rockies, no issues. Blue Ox WDH with 1000lb tow bars, bent the 750’s.
Bill