Can Parts Be Added To a 2005 Chrysler Town and Country to Increase The Towing Capacity

Question:

I have a 2005 Chrysler Town and Country Touring with Stow n Go seating. It does NOT have the tow package installed. I understand that with this car, its rated to tow about 1,600 lbs. I am looking to buy a pop up trailer with a unloaded weight of 2,200 lbs. Would simply adding a Transmission Cooler to the vehicle along with a hitch of courseprobably weight distributed??? suffice in adding an after market tow package to this car?

asked by: Tim

Expert Reply:

In short, no; adding a transmission cooler and distributing trailer weight does not constitute a tow package. Transmission coolers do not add to the tow capacity of the vehicle. They can reduce wear and tear on transmissions used for towing by keeping heat levels down, but they do not make the transmission capable of pulling more weight.

Tow packages often include things like a heavier suspension, integrated hitch, wiring, stronger transmission, stronger/braced frames, and the larger of the available motors. They can also include different gearing for the drive train, the computer tune files in the car computer can differ, the vehicle frame itself may be made stronger, and air suspension systems are added in some mini-vans, trucks and SUVs to keep the rig level.

You must go by what the towing capacities are in your vehicle owner manual. If your manual says gross towing weight of 1,600 pounds, your trailer and all that is in it must not exceed 1,600 pounds. 1,600 sounds low, but check the owner manual. If you cannot find towing capacities in your owner manual, you can contact your Chrysler dealer with your VIN (vehicle identification number) and they should be able to tell you exactly how much your van can tow.

expert reply by: Patrick B