IrishBrewer
Well-known member
- Joined
- Aug 9, 2006
- Posts
- 74
I have a 96 Grand Caravan (4 speed automatic trans) that I will be using to tow a popup from PA to OK (1100 miles) in about 6 weeks.? The popup's dry weight is 2000 lb.? I don't plan on loading it down much beyond its dry weight.?
The Caravan didn't have a towing package so I've been working on that myself.? Here's what I've added thus far:
1. Trailer Wiring Kit
2.? Class III Reese Hitch
3.? Class III ball mount w/2" ball (5" rise so popup is level)
4.? Replaced stock rear shocks with heavy duty shocks
5.? Added a leaf spring helper (1500 lb., adjustable)
6.? Added a heavy duty external ATF cooler.
I think that with these upgrades, I'm better off than I would be with what would have been included in the factory tow package.
I've also ordered new trailer tires with the proper load rating because the old tires are pretty cracked on their sidewalls.? Other things that I'd like to add but aren't in the budget just yet are electric trailer brakes/controller and a weight distribution system for the hitch.? I'm not using any 12V power from the TV yet so I haven't upgraded the battery or the alternator.? The ATF and filter has recently been chaged and all the brakes pads are relatively new.
The new shocks and the leaf spring helpers seem to do a very good job stiffening up the rear suspension without making the ride harsh (in fact, its quite a bit better now with the new shocks).? I'm also going to replace the stock front struts because I think they are past their prime.?
I've read in various places that I should avoid overdrive while towing.? I'll keep this in mind.
Am I missing anything?? Any thoughts or suggestions on towing with this setup would be appreciated.?
Chad
The Caravan didn't have a towing package so I've been working on that myself.? Here's what I've added thus far:
1. Trailer Wiring Kit
2.? Class III Reese Hitch
3.? Class III ball mount w/2" ball (5" rise so popup is level)
4.? Replaced stock rear shocks with heavy duty shocks
5.? Added a leaf spring helper (1500 lb., adjustable)
6.? Added a heavy duty external ATF cooler.
I think that with these upgrades, I'm better off than I would be with what would have been included in the factory tow package.
I've also ordered new trailer tires with the proper load rating because the old tires are pretty cracked on their sidewalls.? Other things that I'd like to add but aren't in the budget just yet are electric trailer brakes/controller and a weight distribution system for the hitch.? I'm not using any 12V power from the TV yet so I haven't upgraded the battery or the alternator.? The ATF and filter has recently been chaged and all the brakes pads are relatively new.
The new shocks and the leaf spring helpers seem to do a very good job stiffening up the rear suspension without making the ride harsh (in fact, its quite a bit better now with the new shocks).? I'm also going to replace the stock front struts because I think they are past their prime.?
I've read in various places that I should avoid overdrive while towing.? I'll keep this in mind.
Am I missing anything?? Any thoughts or suggestions on towing with this setup would be appreciated.?
Chad