Can 2009 Honda Odyssey Tow 2,000 Pound Loaded Camper

Updated 09/24/2018 | Published 09/21/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Derale 2-Pass Tube-Fin Power Steering Cooler with Offset Mounting Bracket - 8-1/8" Wide

(12)

$62.96

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

(874)

$103.73

Question:

We have a 2010 Honda Odyssey and are looking at getting a 2009 Viking Epic 1906 version which weighs around 1500lbs. Our van has a standard 2in hitch on it with a 4 prong plug. The towing capacity for the van says it is just over 3000lbs. I realize the weight of the trailer is well below the towing capacity but just want to make sure I am not going to damage our van especially if we are going thru the Rocky Mtns and want to make sure the transmission will be okay with this load going up a mountain guessing 2000lbs total load once luggage is loaded. Do you see any problem with us towing using our van as described? Thanks,

asked by: Matt P

Helpful Expert Reply:

As long as you stay under the towing limits listed in your owner's manual (which you have already checked) then you will have no problems towing your Viking Epic 1906 Camper.

With that being said I did take a look at the online version of the owner's manual for your 2009 Honda Odyssey and found that the listed towing capacities are only if the vehicle is equipped with a transmission cooler and power steering cooler. Especially since you will be doing a lot of uphill towing, adding these two components is a really good idea to not only maintain the capacity of the Odyssey but also to extend the life of its transmission.

For a transmission cooler I recommend taking a look at the Derale Series 8000 # D13503. This is a really nice plate-fin style cooler that features turbulator plates for more efficient cooling. You will just want to make sure you have enough room behind the grille and AC condenser for this to mount. The unit measures 11 inches wide, 8-3/4 inches tall, and 7/8 inches deep.

I have attached an installation video on a later model Odyssey that you can use for reference.

For a power steering cooler the Derale # D13210 should work nicely. This cooler measures 8-1/8 inches wide, 2-1/2 inches tall, and 2-1/2 inches deep. It includes the rubber hose, stainless steel clamps, and all the necessary hardware for installation. I have included the written instructions as well.

I have attached a couple articles on transmission coolers that you might also find helpful.