Towing Capacity of 2017 Dodge Journey and Parts Needed to Pull 1,900 Pound Trailer

Question:

I have 2017 Dodge Journey AWD V6. Can I pull a 1900 lb RV trailer ? Do I need a trans oil cooler? Thanks for any help.

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

I tracked down an online version of the owner's manual for your 2017 Dodge Journey and if it's equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine it listed a towing capacity of up to 2,500 pounds. This max capacity is assuming there is only 1 to 2 persons in the vehicle. As the inhabitants grow the capacity decreases as follows:

3 to 4 persons - 2,000 pound towing capacity
5 to 7 persons - 1,500 pound towing capacity

With this in mind your Dodge Journey is capable of towing a 1,900 pound trailer as long as you don't bring a lot of friends/family on the trip.

A supplemental transmission cooler isn't required but since you're going to creep up towards the vehicle's limits I highly recommend adding one. It's really going to improve the vehicle's performance when towing along with prolonging the lifespan of its transmission. I specifically recommend the Derale Series 8000 # D13502, which will provide really efficient cooling with its plate-fin design and 3/4" wide turbulator plates. I just recommend making sure you have the needed space available between the grille and AC condensor core for this to mount. This cooler measures 11 inches wide, 7-1/4 inches tall, and 7/8 inches deep.

I have attached a sample install video that you can use for reference.

If you don't yet have a trailer hitch I recommend the etrailer.com Class III # e98845 that offers a simple bolt-on installation (no drilling), features a unique matte black finish that's resistant to scratching, and is made right here in the USA. I have included an installation video on your exact model Journey that you can follow along with.

For a wiring harness I recommend the Tekonsha T-One # 118536 if your Journey has LED tail lights or the T-One # 118567 if it has incandescent lights. Both are custom harnesses that will plug right into factory ports behind the tail lights to provide you with a 4-Way connector to power the trailer's signal lights.