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Setting up a Pickup to Tow a Travel Trailer
by Jennifer Alger
(Everett Wa)
How to Setup a Pickup to Tow a Travel Trailer
I need to find out what I need to do to my Dodge Durango 2001 RT so it can pull a Wildwood Trailer.
ANSWER: Hi Jennifer, your year and model Durango R/T has a Maximum Towing Capacity of 7,350 lbs. That means that the Travel Trailer you buy must have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of less than 7,350 lbs. If this information is confusing to you please read this: Trailer and RV Weight Demystified.
If your Dodge Durango is equipped with the factory towing package, then it is ready to tow a Travel Trailer if you don't have the tow package read the recommendations below.
Trailer Brake Controller
Minimum Recommendations: Hitch Receiver, Hitch Receiver Ball Mount, Tow Ball, Tow Vehicle Wiring, higher output Alternator, Trailer Brake Controller (pictured above) and Towing Mirrors.
Recommended Setup: In addition to the items mentioned above you should get a higher capacity radiator, engine oil cooler and transmission cooler. Depending on the weight of the Travel Trailer upgraded suspension to include Air Bags or Air Shocks should be installed.
I would also strongly suggest that you also purchase a weight-distribution hitch and a trailer sway bar (if your weight-distribution hitch does not include a sway control), which will keep your trailer stable when you have side winds or when you are passed by a big rig.
Now that you have your truck setup for towing, you should watch the video below on some safety tips on towing a travel trailer with a pickup.
I hope that this helps.
Do you have any suggestions or comments on this topic? You can add them to this page by clicking on the "Click Here To Post Comments" link located near the bottom of this page.
Happy RVing
RVing Al
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