All:
I am trying to find out details of what I need to add to my 2001 T&C LXi to tow a 3000lb popup camper. It has the 3.8l engine but NO towing package. With the towing package I know the rating is 3500 (or 3800 depending on who you talk to). Without it it is 2000lbs. The question I have is what do I need to add to my vehicle. In looking up the origional option I see the towing package added the wiring harness (no big deal), Rear suspension leveling (I plan to put in a set of Timbren rubber springs to help there)and the HD tranny/Oil/Rad cooler. In looking at the vehicle it does have a tranny cooler already but I am guessing they beef that up? So is all that I need is a second Tranny cooler (aftermarket)? If so do I intall before or after the factory one or do I bypass the factory unit?

Thanks in advance.

 

If your travel plans include towing, there's an available Heavy Duty Service Group for long-wheelbase Town & Country models that includes a load-leveling suspension, heavy-duty cooling, 600-amp battery, 160-amp alternator, and trailer-tow wiring harness. When properly equipped with the Heavy Duty Service Group you willbe able to tow up to 3,600 pounds with your Town & Country.


thats a new T/C what year is yours?? call the dealer and ask for parts ask for the tow package upgrade and they will give u the info and then how much to install it.

 

Chrysler Tech thanks for the response. I have a 2001 LXI which has the 160 A alternator and 600A battery already. I am putting in the wiringmyslef with a brake controller so I don't need that. The real question is what is the "heavy duty cooling" you mention (is it just a tranny cooler?) and do I already have it since their is a tranny cooler in the vehicle already?

 

if u call parts they can tell u what is in the package that is offered for your van that why u know what u need.

 

A minor technicality to think about...

You can add all the equipment and make the van safe and suitable for the additional towing capacity. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, your door sticker and VIN both say you can only tow the ~2000 lbs, as that's how the van came from the factory. So in the unlikely event that you get pulled over and weighed, if you exceed your GVWR stamped on your vehicle, you can still get a ticket.

Probably something to think about if you'll be routinely towinga heavy load.

Chad

 

Thanks. Not too worried about getting pulled over and ticketed for being overweight. I don't see too many minivans with popup campers at the weigh stations Besides I will just sue for prejudicebecause the cop gave me the overwight ticket just because I am fat....

 

just an fyi, if you get all setup you should have no problems. I tow a pop up with the overdrive off at 70mph and still get 17mpg. not bad for a family wagon.