Towing with a Pilot

17 messages, Last post on Mar 01, 2009 at 7:12 PM

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What is this discussion about? Honda Pilot, SUV

#16 of 17 Hydraulic Actuator Solenoid Lockout by finalchapter Dec 20, 2007 (6:56 pm)
Hi everyone - I have a 2006 Pilot with the dealer installed tow package. I will be towing a boat and trailer weighing around 2800-3000 lbs. The electrical connection at present is a 'four-flat'. One male ground and three female power for lights, turn signals, brakelights, etc. The surge brake actuator on the boat trailer comes with a solenoid lockout that, when you place the vehicle in reverse, the solenoid engages and inserts a pin behind the coupler and prevents the actuator from engaging the brakes so you can back up. This configuration requires a 'five-flat' plug. My question is: Can I safely tie into the reverse light wiring without screwing up something in the vehicle to provide the voltage to the solenoid to engage the pin? Are there any other options? The parts guy at Honda didn't know what the term 'five-flat' meant. I found that curious though not unexpected. Thanks, FC
#17 of 17 Mileage while towing by mark960 Mar 01, 2009 (7:12 pm)
Hi, I have a 2003 Pilot that I have been happy with. Typically it gets 20-23 mpg on the highway. However, I recently was towing an 6 x 10 enclosed trailer from NY to Florida. The mileage dropped to 10 mpg for the whole trip. I kept the speed below 60 mph to reduce wind drag. Is this normal???? I had a Chevy Astro van that would get 15 mpg while towing a similar size trailer. Tx. Mark