Complete Towing Package For A 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan

Question:

We have a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan w/ stow and go that we will be using to tow a 14 to 16foot camper trailer havent decided on exact model with a dry weight of about 2500 lbs. The trailer will likely have electric brakes. The minivan doesnt have the tow package, but I will be adding a transmission cooler and was thinking about air bags in the rear. What do you recommend for the hitch, whether a WD hitch is needed, whether an anti-sway hitch is needed, and any other upgrades for towing. Thanks.

asked by: Joe K

Expert Reply:

Although not always necessary, it is always a good idea to upgrade the vehicle for towing a heavy load for an extending period of time. In order to tow a 16' camper that weighs roughly 2,500 lbs. when dry, with a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan, I recommend using suspension enhancements, upgraded transmission cooler, Class III hitch receiver, sway control, brake controller, and weight distribution if the gross trailer weight (GTW) is more than 50% of the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). I will attach my recommendations for the following products for you below.

Lets first start with the vehicle and work our way back to the trailer. For a trailer hitch receiver that is compatible with your Dodge Grand Caravan, I recommend using the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 75305 as this is a Class III hitch receiver that provides an entirely bolt on installation.

You will also need a trailer wiring harness to go from the vehicle to the trailer, For this, I recommend using the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector part # 118300 as this is a complete plug and play kit that will not require you to splice or cut any wires. However, as this will only give you a 4-flat trailer connector, you will want to add a 7-way trailer connector using our Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller part # ETBC7 to allow for trailer brakes to be controlled from the vehicle. For a brake controller, I recommend using the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller part # TK90160.

In order to ensure the transmission fluid temperatures remain at a safe level, I recommend using the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets part # D13503 because this is one of the largest coolers we have listed as a fit for your vehicle.

To prevent vehicle sag and reduce strain on the rear suspension components, I recommend using a set of Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System part # TDVR05096 over a set of airbags like the Air Lift Ride Control Air Helper Springs part # AL59547 because the jounce springs will provide similar features at a much more cost effective price.

As previously stated, "if the gross trailer weight (GTW) is more than 50% of the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)" you will want to use a weight distribution system. In order to choose the correct system, you will first need to determine the total tongue weight of your loaded ready to tow trailer in addition to any weight stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I have attached our help article that will further explain tongue weight and weight distribution for you. The typical tongue weight of a trailer is generally 10-15% of the gross trailer weight (GTW).

For a total tongue weight between 100-400 lbs, I recommend using the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System part # EQ37040ET. For a total tongue weight between 300-600 lbs, I recommend using the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System part # EQ37060ET or part # EQ37100ET for a total tongue weight between 700-1,000 lbs.

I have attached a review video in addition to a few installation videos of my recommendations for you.