Upgraded Suspension and Towing Package for a 2017 Sienna XLE

Question:

Im planning to use a hitch probably will be Draw-Tite 76112 for the Yakima Exo system with the License Plate and Tail Light Relocation Kit [Y74VR]. But would like to also be prepared for any potential trailer or camper towing. I removed the second and third row seats and use the interior cargo area to carry a good bit of weight in tools and equipment. The roof rack carries a good bit of weight, as well. The vehicle back end already sags with no hitch. After adding the weight of an installed hitch, Exo system and accessories, and cargo, Im sure Ill need some kind of suspension enhancement. For convenience, I want to install everything at the same time the hitch, lighting harness [leaning toward the Tekonsha 118648 or the TK87FR], brake controller [probably a Redarc] power wires, and the suspension enhancement, and possibly a camera on the rear Exo top GearLocker. What suspension enhancement options are compatible for my vehicle? Im interested in your Air Lift and Firestone air bags, and wired and wireless in-line compressors. I like the idea of not needing to run air lines into the cabin, and also having the option of manually adding air if the compressor fails. Are Timbren options compatible? Or Sumo springs? What do you recommend, and why? Also, what compressors will install/be compatible on my van, and what option is best? As far as a camera, basically Ill just need rear visibility because Ill be using the Exo SwingBase, TopShelf, and two Gearlockers Y74ZR. This will more than likely block all of my rearview mirrors visibility. Ill need some kind of monitor in the cabin to take the place of my mirror. Im open to any and all suggestions. Thank you so much!

asked by: John M

Expert Reply:

Upgrading the rear suspension in your 2017 Toyota Sienna sounds like a solid plan considering all the weight you are carrying around inside your van. Since you're using a Sienna as a platform you are going to be limited on options for upgrades. There is an air bag kit it is the Air Lift 1000 Air Helper Springs for Coil Springs item # AL60732. This system fits inside your factory coil springs to provide you with a 1,000 lbs of load-leveling support. There are no Sumo Spring or Timbren kits that fit your Sienna. For an on-board air compressor you will want to use the Air Lift WirelessAIR Compressor System for Air Helper Springs item # AL74000EZ. Air Lift's premium, wireless, onboard compressor system with Bluetooth allows you to fill your air springs at the touch of a button. The WirelessAIR also automatically maintains pre-set air pressure levels. It lets you adjust your two air springs independently with the wireless remote control. You can add in an extra set of valves to allow for manual inflation in the case of failure. You will want the Replacement No-Drill Inflation Valve Bracket for Firestone Air Helper Springs Systems item # F98ZR, the Air Line Service Kit for Firestone Ride-Rite/Sport-Rite Air Helper Springs item # F2012, and a Air Lift Union Tee for 1/4" Air Lines item # AL21838. These parts will allow you to set up a manual inflation system in addition to the air compressor so you can fill your air bags independently.

For a back up camera and monitor you will want the Rear View Safety Backup Camera System - Mirror Monitor - License Plate Mounted Camera item # RVS-778718N. This system replaces your existing rear view mirror. It provides 170-Degree viewing angle and mounts to your license plate. I have linked a review video. This will be compatible with the Yakima license plate relocation kit item # Y74VR.

The Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver item # 76112 is confirmed to fit your 2017 Sienna. You will want to use the Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring Harness w Brake Controller Adapter - 7 Way Trailer Connector item # TK87FR over the Tekonsha item # 118648 . The 7-way has a brake controller adapter built into it so you won't have to cut and splice into your Sienna's wiring. You will then be able to use the item # 331-TPH-017 adapter to connect the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller item # RED24FR. This will give you a complete plug and play installation and not require you to buy the extra wiring harness to hardwire a Redarc brake controller into your van.

The License Plate and Tail Light Relocation Kit for Yakima EXO System item # Y74VR will work great with the Yakima EXO Swing Away Storage System w/ 2 Enclosed Cargo Carriers - 2" Hitches item # Y74ZR. This will keep you from being hassled and getting pulled over because your plate is blocked.