Rear Axle Suspension Helper Kit for 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan to Reduce Rear Sag from Cargo Load

Updated 05/31/2019 | Published 05/29/2019

Products Featured in This Question

MaxxTow Ball Mount w/ 2" Accessory Receiver - 2" Hitches - 2-1/4" Drop - 5,000 lbs

(1)

$41.14

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6612)

$269.36

Question:

I have a hitch mounted carrier, I think its the Stromberg Carlson, Item #CC-100. I use it on a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan with the eTrailer Cargo Bag, Item # 988501. The problem is that after the cargo area behind the seat and the cargo carrier are both loaded up the carrier sits only a few inches from the pavement and often drags on the pavement when pulling into parking lots with any significant incline into or out of the lot. Could I use this, Item # MT70066, to raise the carrier a few more inches to avoid dragging so easily. My hitch is only rated for 400lb tongue weight so I was concerned that a hitch riser might put to much strain on the hitch.

asked by: Daniel V

Expert Reply:

You are correct that using a hitch adapter like MaxxTow # MT70066 (or any similar adapter) along with your hitch cargo carrier would increase stress on your hitch. Use of such adapters actually reduces the hitch's tongue weight (TW) capacity by half because these items move the actual load further away from the hitch and this extended distance places more leverage on the hitch tube, thus reducing its capacity.

A better option to regain ground clearance is to install a suspension helper kit that will support the rear axle's suspension when it is under the load of the cargo inside the vehicle and in the hitch carrier. We have an easy-install bolt on Timbren kit, part # TDVR05096, that will provide substantial support to the rear suspension when you're loaded up but it will NOT otherwise change the van's ride quality. You'll feel the Timbrens only when they engage the axle, such as when heavily loaded or perhaps when you drive over a deep pothole.

These rubber jounce springs bolt on in place of the (probably worn out) factory jounce bumpers and they will engage with the axle only when you're loaded up. They are easy to install, require no maintenance and they will give you the improved ground clearance you're looking for. Please refer to the linked installation video that shows how these bolt on to a Grand Caravan.

expert reply by: Adam R