We are going to purchase a V8 2wd to tow our 5th wheel travel trailer. Is the Tow Package option a deal breaker? What options/upgrades are in that package?? Thanks

 

um 1st gen dakota + fifth wheel would equal a snapped axle i would guess, are you in the right sub-forum

 

You probably should look into a Ram, not a Dakota.

 

Depends on the size. There are 5th wheels out there set up for the smaller trucks. I will be picking one up this weekend. Its 4 years old and the guy has been using a 93 Dak with 5.2 to pull it all its life.

 

Snapped axle???
There are many a Dak with 5th wheel set ups. If you don't try to pull anything over your limits like an 8,000 lb 30' 5th wheel your fine...if you do your an idiot anyway and deserve a snapped axle.

Anyone help me out on the orig question? Thanks

 

Yes correct you will not snap the axle if you keep the trailer within the trucks limits. For the towing limit check out this page.
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/1st-gen...ing-chart.html

The tow package includes a rear 2in hitch class 3.
A wiring harness. I'm not sure if it came with a 7 pin or just the 4 pin. I have the tow package and I have the 7pin but I think that was add in.

For automatic transmissions it had an extra transmission oil cooler.

For a 5th wheel you will need to buy the 5th wheel hitch to install in the bed. You will need to install an electric brake controller if it has electronic brakes. Not hard to do. I have it installed.
Installing air shocks or even better air bag for the rear to help with the load would be best.

Truth be hold to tow a 5th wheel a larger truck would be best. Ram 2500 or so depending on the weight of the trailer. The larger brakes and weight of the truck and stronger suspension is Ideal.

 

with my 89 the only thing i got with the tow option was the tranny cooler. thats an easy fix. you can pick up the snap in wire herness which utilizes the plugs in the brake light harness for under 30 bucks. biggest concern will be stopping power, my dak doesnt like to stop with a trailer behind it. i tow a boat thats near 5000 pounds and an enclosed trailer around 2000 pounds and you need plenty of distance to stop. this place custom makes shocks to fit the truck, i put coilovers up front and airs in the back
http://www.shockshopusa.com/