Recommended Trailer Hitch and Towing Capacity for 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan

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Question:

I am wanting to tow a trailer with my 2018 Grand Caravan. Do you know how much it can pull? Can you recommend a hitch? THanks.

asked by: Katie

0

Expert Reply:

I took a look at the online version of the owner's manual for your 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan. The van's actual towing capacity will depend on how many passengers (including the driver) you have in the vehicle. The manual lists the following capacities:

Up to 2 persons and luggage - 3,600 pound towing capacity
3 to 5 persons and luggage - 3,450 pound towing capacity
6 to 7 persons and luggage - 3,000 pound towing capacity

For a trailer hitch I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch # 75579 because unlike the alternative Curt option it does not require the use of additional stabilizing straps if you were to use the hitch for an accessory like a bike rack or cargo carrier. It will use existing holes in the vehicle's frame for a no-drill installation and it features a 4,000 pound towing limit. Just note you will still be limited by the capacity of your Grand Caravan since it is lower.

I have attached an installation video that you can use for reference.

Tow tow a trailer you will also need a wiring harness. For this I recommend the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56331. This is a custom harness that will install by plugging into factory ports behind the tail lights and then running the hot lead up to the battery. This will provide you with a 4-Way connector to power a trailer's basic signal lights.

Lastly you will need a ball mount and hitch ball. I have attached a great article that explains how to choose the best one for your setup along with a link that will take you to our available selection.

expert reply by: Chris R

0

Dee

8/3/2020

Will towing a pop up camper damage the van, transmission or engine in any way?

Reply

Jon G.

8/12/2020

As long as you aren't exceeding weight ratings and you are practicing safe driving habits then towing a camper with your van won't damage it. Obviously adding more weight to your whole setup will cause your engine and transmission to work harder so in those regards you will likely see a shorter lifespan on them but that's just the nature of towing anything with any vehicle.

Reply

Abraham S.

7/26/2020

This is the exact information I'm looking for, but my one follow-up question is where can I find the wiring harness for a 7-way connection? The popup we will use is equipped with electronic brakes and a 7-way.

Reply

Chris R.

7/30/2020

To upgrade the 4-Way Wiring Kit mentioned above (which you will still need) you'll just have to add the Wiring Kit # ETBC7. This kit includes everything required to make this conversion and also install a brake controller (which you'll also need to power the trailer's electric brakes) like the excellent Tekonsha Primus IQ # TK90160.

Reply

Mike R.

6/7/2020

How can I figure out how much tongue weight is being applied to a trailer? I'm thinking about trading in a Ram 1500 for a Dodge Caravan, but we need to tow a 19' boat.

Reply

Chris R.

6/11/2020

Using a simple scale like the Sherline # 5780 is probably the easiest, most accurate method. You simply drop the trailer coupler onto the scale and it will tell you how much tongue weight is being applied.

Reply

Answer 1

According to the owner's manual for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan with a 3.6L Automatic the maximum trailer tongue weight of the van with 1-2 people in it is 360 lbs so if your trailer tongue weight stayed under 360 lbs you shouldn't…

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Answer 2

After installing an aftermarket transmission cooler, you typically do need to add a bit more transmission fluid to the system to compensate for adding the cooler. With a cooler as large as the Derale Series 8000 Transmission Cooler Kit #D13503, it…

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Answer 3

I found your order and see that you arleady purchased: Draw-Tite trailer hitch receiver #75579 Trailer Wiring Harness #HM11141995 Adapter #37185 Brackets #18138 and #18140 All of which will work on your 2018 Grand Caravan and sounds like exactly what…

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Answer 4

The best way to run the power wire to the battery on Curt Circuit Protected T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness, #C56150, is basically what is easiest for you while adhering to a couple of important safety tips. First, it is easiest to route the wire…

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Answer 5

In order to determine the correct replacement braking assemblies for any given trailer you must first know the axle capacity. I am sure we have the correct replacement braking assemblies but in order to confirm we again need to know the axle…

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Answer 6

You'd want to leave your 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan transmission in overdrive for the most part. If you found yourself towing in a hilly area with a lot of upshifting and downshifting you might select a lower gear just to prevent some of that but…

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Answer 7

For your 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan the best option is the Draw Tite hitch part #75579 because of the price, it's high towing capacities, and because it has the shortest install time listed for it. Check out the install video I attached for more…

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Answer 8

Curt trailer hitch #13590 is rated for 500 pounds tongue weight like you said. However, consult the vehicle owners manual for the vehicle tongue weight. Whichever is lower, the hitch or vehicle, is the weight you must go by. For sake of argument…

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Answer 9

I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e98854 for your 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. This is a class III receiver which will accept a 2" ball mount. As your trailer has a 4-way flat connector you will need the Curt Vehicle Wiring Harness…

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Answer 10

For your 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan, the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver Class III - 2" #75579 is a confirmed fit. There isn't a specific hitch required for the stow and go on this model year. If you will be towing with this hitch,…

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Answer 11

I recommend the 2" Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver #75579 for your 2015 Chrysler Town and Country for towing large trailers. I find the receiver has a better build quality as the cross tube passes through the frame bracket plates…

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Answer 12

For your 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan with the Stow 'n Go Seating I highly recommend the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver #75579 because of its hidden crosstube appearance and easier install process compared to the other options available.…

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Recommended Trailer Hitch and Towing Capacity for 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan

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