Can a 2001 Dodge Durango 4.7 4x4 Tow a Travel Trailer that Weighs 7,000 Pounds

Updated 02/01/2014 | Published 01/31/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Dodge

(965)

$20.37

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3448)

$124.27

Question:

Can a 2001 Dodge Durango 4.7 4x4 haul a 29foot 9inch travel trailer that weighs 7,000 lbs? I am looking to purchase this trailer but do not know if mt Durango can haul it. I get mixed information on the internet some saying it can only haul 4,500 lbs or 6,500 lbs. I currently haul boats with no problem but this is a different story. i have been told i would need to get the electric trailer bakes put on the durango. what do you think?

asked by: Ruthie

Expert Reply:

Based on my research the standard towing capacity of a 2001 Dodge Durango 4x4 is 4,450 pounds and the maximum is 7,350 pounds. It depends on how it is equipped. The source that you need to check is the owners manual. I do not have access to one online but your copy should have the towing capacities listed. There also may be a towing capacity listed on the sticker in the driver side door jamb.

Trailer brakes are a good idea, but they do not get added to the Durango. The trailer will have to have electric brakes and then you would add a brake controller on the Durango. If the trailer has surge hydraulic brakes then you will not need a brake controller.

To add a brake controller there are a couple of items you will need. If the Durango came with a factory 7-Way trailer connector then you will just need the brake controller itself and the proper wiring harness to plug into the controller and vehicle. I recommend the P2, # 90885 because it is easy to set up, easy to use, and its a reliable controller. The correct wiring harness is # 3020-P.

If you just have a 4-Way flat trailer connector then you will need to hardwire in a brake controller using installation kit # ETBC7 and of course the brake controller. I have included some links to the right that explain the ETBC7 installation. I have also included a link to an informational article on brake controllers for you.

expert reply by: Michael H