Towing Capacities and Trailer Hitch/Wiring Recommendations for a 2005 Chrysler Town and Country  

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There are a couple of weights to look at when determining how much trailer your 2005 Chrysler Town and Country can tow. First you need to consider the towing capacity of the vehicle itself or the gross trailer weight capacity listed for the vehicle.

Additionally, Chrysler has a frontal area maximum that the trailer can have. They say that the front of the trailer cannot exceed 40 square feet. So if the trailer is 8 x 5 feet at the front or 10 x 4 feet, or any combination that adds up to 40 square feet or less then it will meet that requirement.

For the trailer capacity the van can handle it depends on a few factors including whether or not the van has the heavy duty trailer tow package and how many people and the amount of luggage in the van.

Without the tow package the van is rated for 1,800 pounds with 2 people and luggage in the van. With 3 to 5 people and luggage it drops to 1,350 pounds. And with 6 to 7 people and luggage it drops to 1,000 pounds. The maximum gross combined rating (the most both the trailer and vehicle can weigh when loaded and with passengers, luggage, and fuel) is 6,600 pounds.

With the tow package it can handle 3,800 pounds with 2 people/luggage, 3,350 pounds with 3 to 5 people and luggage. And 3,000 pounds with 6 to 7 people and luggage. The maximum gross combined rating (the most both the trailer and vehicle can weigh when loaded and with passengers, luggage, and fuel) is 8,600 pounds.

For either set up (trailer tow package or not) each of the weights listed above decreases by 100 pounds if the van is equipped with Stow N Go seats.

Also, if the trailer weighs over 1,000 pounds a weight distribution hitch is recommended. If it's over 2,000 pounds it is required. Based on the weight capacities listed above the van will not be able to tow a trailer that weighs 6,000 pounds. I have included a picture from the owner's manual with the capacity information for you.

Draw-Tite trailer hitch # 75305 is my top recommendation for your Town and Country. It is rated for use with weight distribution and it has a 2 inch receiver.

For standard towing (not weight distribution) I also recommend etrailer ball mount kit # EBMK4. it comes with a ball mount with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop, interchangeable ball set, hitch pin and clip, and a storage bag.

And for trailer wiring I recommend # 118300 to add a 4-Way flat to the rear of the vehicle. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you. I have also included some links on weight distribution and determining tongue weight.

expert reply by: Michael H

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