Weight Distribution Set-Up and Accessories for Towing Pop-Up Camper with 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan
Question:
I have a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T. I just bought a 2013 Jaco Jay Series 1006. Dry weight is 2175. Do I need to install anti-sway bars from the hitch to the trailer? This is what I am being told. Also, what exactly do I need? Class 3 hitch? I know Trailer needs 2inch ball and 7 pin wiring harness. Thanks.
asked by: Shannin C
Expert Reply:
Let's begin with the receiver hitch. I'd recommend the Curt Class III, part # 13364. This is a concealed hitch; the crossbar will be hidden behind the rear bumper, so it'll look much better than a typical hitch once installed.
You'll also need a trailer wiring harness, part # C56331, and a brake controller. For the controller, I'd recommend the easy to install Curt Echo, part # C51180 and the install kit. The Echo simplifies the installation process, you'll just need to run a wire to the battery positive terminal, as shown in the installation video I've linked for you. You'll also need the # ETBC7L install kit.
When loaded, your camper which has a GVWR of 2950 lbs will very likely weigh more than half of the 4300 lb weight of your Grand Caravan which means you'd be best served using a weight distribution system with a built-in sway control component like the # FA92-00-0600.
This system can handle trailers with tongue weights ranging from 250-600 lbs, which is perfect for your pop-up, and it also offers a good performing sway control component which makes for a stress-free towing experience. This is a trunnion bar system, which provides excellent ground clearance, which is very important for a low slung vehicle like a minivan.
You'll also need a # A-90 2 inch trailer ball. The ball requires a 1-7/8 thin wall socket, if you don't have one they're available as part # EQ70-00-4800.
I'v linked to some installation videos for the products I've mentioned above.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 400 lbs TW
- 4000 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 500 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug Mount w/ Bluetooth App - 1 to 2 Axle - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Hidden
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- CURT
more information >
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- CURT
more information >
Thin Walled Socket for Equal-i-zer Hitches
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Tools
- Socket
- Equal-i-zer
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Fastway
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 400 lbs TW
- 4000 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 500 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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