Front-Mounted Trailer Hitch & Cargo Carrier for 2001 Dodge Durango 2WD  

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I double-checked with Curt, Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch for a front-mount hitch receiver for your 2001 Dodge Durango with 2WD. Neither Draw-Tite nor Hidden Hitch have a front-mount for your 2WD Durango but my contact at Curt confirmed that their 2-inch square tube hitch # 31080 fits all version of the 2001 Durango, including your 2-wheel-drive.

The hitch bolts on using included hardware and it requires no drilling. The linked instructions and help article will list the basic tools you'll need and provide tips to make the installation easier. The only special tool required is a torque wrench like # ALL944001. The included fasteners must be tightened to the specs shown in the instructions in order for the hitch to meet it's rated capacity. The hitch has a tongue weight (TW) rating of 350-lbs so this means that the combination of your chosen cargo carrier and what you load onto it cannot exceed this weight.

For a cargo carrier we offer a variety including both folding and fixed types. Since your hitch is rated for 350-lbs you can use a 300-lb rated carrier like # C18110 from Curt. This fixed carrier weighs only 30-lbs which will make it easier to install and remove it than some of the others that can be substantially heavier. If you prefer a folding carrier Curt offers # C18153. This carrier weighs 70-lbs. Note that with this heavier carrier after you deduct it's weight from the hitch capacity you'll have a remaining cargo weight capacity of 280-lbs (350 - 70 = 280).

There are several things to keep in mind when using a front-mounted cargo carrier. Depending on how it is loaded you might find your headlights are partially blocked; take care to avoid this as it is a safety concern and could potentially earn you a ticket. Also note that air flow to the radiator can be affected too; keep this in mind when you're carrying cargo in hot weather. Also note that if you were to load a front-mounted carrier to it's full weight capacity you might notice reduced rear-wheel traction. A 300-lb cargo load that extends well forward of your front axle will tend to lift the truck's rear end slightly; this could potentially affect rear wheel traction.

If you plan to carry cargo often or at or near the hitch capacity you will want to check the vehicle's front axle weight rating to ensure you do not overload it. You can find this in your owner's manual.

If you find the front end sags with your usual cargo load you might consider adding a set of front-axle jounce springs like Super Springs' # SSF-204-47. These medium-duty jounce springs will stiffen and support the front suspension when it is under load from the cargo carrier. They offer progressive resistance when under load but will not otherwise affect your ride. They install without drilling.

expert reply by: Adam R

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