Weight Distribution and Suspension Kits for 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT Towing 20-Foot Trailer  

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Selection of a properly-matched weight distribution and sway control system for your Dodge Caravan and Forest River R-Pod trailer depends on your trailers actual fully-loaded tongue weight. You also need to verify that your hitch receiver is rated for use with a weight distribution system; this will be indicated on its safety/warning sticker.

It is important to measure your trailer tongue weight in its road-ready state, with full water and propane tanks and all supplies and equipment just as it will be when you are on the road, in order to correctly match a weight distribution system. The linked article offers several ways to accurately determine tongue weight; the simplest is to use a dedicated tongue weight scale such as the etrailer # e99044. I have also linked a second article that reviews common questions about weight distribution systems and this might be helpful as you consider your choice.

Once you know your actual loaded tongue weight you can use the link provided to select an appropriately-rated weight distribution/sway control system for your trailer. According to the Forest River website the dry tongue weight for the R-Pod 178 is 257 lbs. For purposes of an example, we will estimate your fully loaded tongue weight will be 400 lbs. An excellent choice among the options shown is the Reese SC system # RP66151. This system avoids lift chains and comes with friction sway control. The small spring bar brackets take up less room on your trailer frame than many competing products and this trunnion style system provides excellent ground clearance as compared to round bar types.

The Prodigy P2 Brake Controller, part # 90885, is very popular and easy-to-use. I have included a link to a video showing installation in a 2009 Grand caravan. Install and operation instructions for the P2 are also provided. If your Grand Caravan does not have a 7-way trailer connector you will also need part # ETBC7, which includes the 7-way, tester, wiring and circuit breakers for installation. I have linked for your review two articles concerning brake controllers.

Weight distribution systems and rear suspension kits may not be compatible. They can sometimes work against each other. In terms of trailer handling when towing the weight distribution system will deliver far more improvement. I suggest you start there. If you prefer to try a suspension kit we do offer options.

Rear suspension enhancement products for your 2008 Grand Caravan include both the air bag and jounce spring types. Air bags are more complex to install and maintain than rubber jounce springs but they offer adjustment capability and can level the vehicle when it is carrying uneven loads. Since you are towing a trailer rather than hauling cargo, I suggest a jounce spring system such as the Timbren # TDVRRT or the SuperSprings # CSS-1195R. Both of these kits install without drilling. The Timbren springs install in place of the stock bump stops and only affect the vehicle ride when it is under load. The Super Springs Coil Helper Springs are inserted within the turns of the rear coils and will provide continuous varying resistance as the load increases. I have linked two additional articles on rear suspension kits, one for Timbren and one for Firestone air bags.

expert reply by: Adam R

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