What's in the Towing Package?

[jmb222]

One of the things I want to add to my new to me Ridgeline is a hitch. My question to the ones who know is, what's included in the OEM Towing Package? Is it the wiring and hitch or does it include more or different coolers? I've looked on here and couldn't find a definite answer.

TIA

[shovelhd]

hitch, harness, drawbar, ball, pin

[Twintym]

All Ridgelines already have a transmission cooler so no other coolers are necessary. I tow a 4K+ pound trailer and have never seen the temp needle move at all. Some dealers include the hitch ball and some don't. Just make sure what diameter ball your trailer needs. The ones Honda offers are pretty small.

[ToyTruck]

jmb--I was a bit confused at first due to the way Honda markets "tow hitch/tow package" as well. It's actually pretty simple. As Twintym said, all Ridgelines have "Tow package" in that they are ready to tow from the factory. Only the RTX includes the necessary hardware; (tow hitch receiver, ball etc.) needed to actually tow.

There are two harnesses; one for the rear wiring and one for under the dash that connects to your electronic trailer brake controller. I had the dealer do everything for $95, I installed the brake controller. A lot of guys here did all of it themselves.

You can buy the hitch harness(es) from Honda with or without the actual hitch bar. Some here have used after-market brands off eBay that saved half the cost of OEM. Lots of stuff to read here through "search". Getting everything ready "back there" can cost you anywhere from $250-500 all in....(approx).

[wrenrj1]

Originally Posted by shovelhd

hitch, harness, drawbar, ball, pin

For RTX owners, add complementary custom fitted cardboard box for the hitch...

[shamrockshooter]

That cardboard box must be quite the feature creating a monster consumer demand for the RTx. No dealer within 200 miles had an RTX in stock. I had to settle for an RT b/c they wouldn't dicker on price if they had to swap with another dealer to get an RTX in for me.

[jmb222]

Thanks all. From my research, there wasn't any additional coolers, which was my concern.

JB

[Sparkland]

What exactly do I need to purchase for my 2008 Ridgeline RTL to get the hitch installation the same as dealer.. I am starting from scratch.

Please include a description of the necessary parts.

I know I need a hitch, ball, etc. but what wiring harness do I need. I notice two different harnesses on Honda sites. One seems to be for the socket assembly. Do I need to buy that for $58.75? Not just for different years but two for system. Do I need both of them. Also do I need to install a brake controller or does that come with the kit? Are the extra fuses included in the trailer hitch kit?

Sorry about all the questions, but the dealers here in Denver want $750 (ouch).

Thanks, Brad

[Lingered_I]

Go here - http://www.handaaccessories.com/ridgeline.html
and scroll down 3/4 of the way to the bottom. You want the Trailer Hitch and the Trailer Hitch Harness. You'll also need to get the hitch ball and pin. You only need a brake controller if you have a trailer that needs one.

[Sparkland]

Originally Posted by Lingered_I

Go here - http://www.handaaccessories.com/ridgeline.html
and scroll down 3/4 of the way to the bottom. You want the Trailer Hitch and the Trailer Hitch Harness. You'll also need to get the hitch ball and pin. You only need a brake controller if you have a trailer that needs one.

Thank you for the clarification.

Appreciate it. The Honda dealer by my house still wants $500 for parts only and $738 for parts and installation.

Brad