Can Tongue Weight Limit be Increased of 2019 Dodge Durango Without Tow Package

Updated 02/16/2021 | Published 02/14/2021

Products Featured in This Question

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(189)

$71.81

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(846)

$171.13

Question:

Hello etrailer experts! I have a 2019 Dodge Durango SXT without the factory tow package, I would like to tow a small 18 foot travel trailer like the JAY FLIGHT SLX 7 154BH, the unloaded trailer weight is 2645lb with equipment lets say 3100lb, which is slightly below the Durangos 3500lb tow capacity. The problem that I have is that the dry hitch weight is 335lb, so when loaded it will certainly be slightly higher than the rating of the Durango 350lb. According to the tow package, other than the wiring, brake controller, the hitch and a full spare, there are a couple of enhancement to the car that I assume are the ones that improve the towing capabilities of the Durango, the transmission cooler and the improved suspension. Will one of the transmission cooler Flex-a-lite or derale and the Air Lift 1000 be enough to increase the hitch weight capacity of the Durango? Or is there any other difference between the regular and the tow package that is not listed? Will a weight distribution system work instead of the air lift? Or the added weight of the WD system will just make it even worse? Thanks!

asked by: Jordi M

Expert Reply:

According to page 349 of the online owner's manual of your 2019 Dodge Durango, if the vehicle does not have a factory tow package, it is limited to 3,500 lbs towing and 350 lbs of tongue weight. I am not able to recommend going against the manufacturer's guidelines no matter what aftermarket products are added on; so it isn't possible, from an aftermarket standpoint, to raise the tongue weight of your 2019 Durango.

The best option I can recommend is towing a different trailer that does not have a tongue weight quite as high, so you can then install and use the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13182 with the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118617.

If you would like to use those, I have added links below to video installs on a 2019 Durango for you to check out.

expert reply by: Kyle S