What is the Towing Capacity of a 2000 Dodge Dakota

Question:

2000 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab with larger V-8 and tow package. is it able to tow an eight thousand pound 30 foot travel trailer? By it having a tow package does that mean I need to put electric brakes on it? Can you tell I have no idea what Im doing? lol! When I first got it we towed a 21 foot travel trailer. I think somewhere theres a way to I just the shocks? Any advice would be helpful

asked by: Bev M

Helpful Expert Reply:

I have a coworker who drives a 2001 Dakota which is the same generation as your 2000. So I checked his owners manual, see pictures. It appears that the bigger V8 for this truck, the 5.9, does not have enough capacity to tow an 8,000 pound trailer. The highest of any model is 6,450 pounds.

Capacity takes into account not only the motor but also the transmission, the rear end gear ratio, wheels, tires, suspension and so on. Basically you would have to replace every major component of the truck to get it to the highest towing capacity.

I urge you to take a look at your own owners manual just in case. Also you can check the sticker or plate in the driver's side door jamb to see if a towing capacity is listed. But it would seem that you will want to start looking at lighter campers.

expert reply by: Michael H