Tacoma 2003 and 19 foot Escape: good combo?

[moto]

We have a 19 footer on order, delivery in May (upgrading from a Fleetwood Bayside pop up- which at 3700 lbs is a heavy unit).

Our tow vehicle will be a 2003 Toyota Tacoma Xtracab, Prerunner TRD. It has the stiffer suspension (TRD) and the tow package (harnas, 7 pin connector, Prodigy brake controller, transmission cooler, heavy duty fan clutch), all rated for 5000 lbs towing capacity.

So, here are my questions:
Will I be OK pulling the Escape 19?
Do you think I need a weight distribution hitch, or will a sway bar do?
Anything else I should take into consideration with this rig combo?

Please chime in. Tnx!

[RickM]

I pull a 19 Escape with a Toyota Highlander that, like your Tacoma, is also rated for 5,000 pounds. No problem towing! I do use a WDH. You will not have any problem towing with your Tacoma.

Rick

[Mountain Mike]

We tow our 19' escape with a 2005 Tacoma, it pulls well. Our tongue weight is about 440#, so I have to watch our gross weight of the truck. I don't use a w.d. hitch, and haven't had a problem. It's important to have the trailer level for towing because of the torsion bar suspension of the trailer. When you get your trailer, spend some time getting the right hitch combination to get the ball height correct.

The other advice I have is don't be afraid to let engine rev up when climbing hills as torque gets you up and over the hills. The optimum rpm for torque on my truck is 3800 rpm. It seems high, but I find I'm climbing at about 1/2 throttle in a lower gear, compared to climbing the hills in a higher gear with my foot punching through the floor. Your engine and cooling system will love you, and you'll burn less fuel!

I think you'll be OK with this combination, but make sure you check the engine and towing specs of your truck!.

[Garand]

I am a firm believer in a WDH and sway bar. Anything you can do to more firmly connect your vehicle with the trailer enhances your family's safety. Lots of folks don't use them, I wouldn't tow without one. I had a blow out with our old Casita and there was no (repeat NO) change in our stability or tracking. Spend the extra money for the hitch. It's worth it for the peace of mind.

Dave