Just bought a 2000 SLT w/5.9L 4x4 yesterday because my Camaro is broke I thought it would be good for towing in the future. I had read about the 7000 lb tow capacity. It didn't have a tow hitch, so my though was "Good, it hasn't been used for towing (yet)". Now I realize that I may need to add more than just a hitch and wiring - there will be a need to change the rear diff gear? (I looked in the glove box and it is the 3.55 one).

What isrequired to obtain the ~7000 lb tow rating? Did the factory tow package include extra transmission cooling or engine cooling? I will be someday towing 5600 lbs (3400 lb Camaro + ~2200lb trailer).

Thanks from this newbie!
Matt

 

Welcome to the forums,

The factory tow package comes with:

heavy duty radiator:
high amp alternator:
transmission and oil cooler:

class 3 or 4 hitch cannot remember which with harness outlet.
3:92 gear ratio.

There may be more but I think these are the major concerns if you want max towing at 7500 lbs.

I think with your D having 3:55 gears, max that you can tow is 5000 lbs.

Do a search in the durango forums and use the keyword "tow" . We discussed this some time while ago.

 

A class III hitch is good for 7500 lbs. In addition to the tow package you also get a power steering cooler. You may also want a brake controller with that much weight.

 

So with none of that already installed, what would YOU do if you needed to tow 5600 lbs for maybe 10 round trips of 300 miles per year?

 

Definitely get the trans cooler, gears, and brake controller.

 

Thanks, Mean Green. That sounds reasonable. Would you go to 3.92 for 5600 lbs or somewhere in-between?

 

I personally would go with 4.10's but 3.92's will get the job done. Since you have 4wd you will need to change gears up front as well otherwise next time youput it in 4wd it will be ugly...

 

I think if you go with 3:73 gear ratio, you will be able to reach your 5600 lb tow plus balance out on gas mileage. If you got 3:92 or 4:10 gear ratios, you lose gas mileage but gain more towing. You decide how you want to balance your preferences.

 

Never know when you'll need more gearing though and how much worse could the gas mileage really get?

 

not only gas mileage but greater wear and tear on the motor as it has to run at a higher RPM to achieve the same speed when using high gear ratios!

Most common Durango's with 4x4's, I seen them setup with 3:73 gearing to balance between towing power and gas mileage. but I think the OEM tow package for durangos, you will get the 3:92 gear ratios to get the full 7500 lb towing power.