Looking for some information regarding towing with a Durango. I have a 2005 SLT without the towing package. It has the HEMI engine, full time AWD with select 4 wheel hi/lo. What needs to be done asside from a hitch to make this truck safe and reliable for towing?

 

Install a quality Class IV hitch. The factory Mopar one is quite good but there are other brands as well.

Next you'll need a brake controller. The two top choices would be the Tekonsha Prodigy and the Tekonsha P3.

Next up is lights and brake controller wiring and 7 pin connector. I would buy the Mopar wire harness. Far easier and neater than making your own. It plugs into existing wiring for a very simple install.

Last but one of the most important is cooling. Some 2nd gen Durangos have an auxillary engine cooler. It is a 2nd radiator and electric fan mounted diagonally on the drivers side of the engine compartment. It easily has prevented over heating when towing steep grades in high heat. Some also have installed an auxillary tranny cooler.

 

Thanks a bunch! Your input is appreciated!

 

Depends on how much you are towing as well. Auxiliary tranny cooler is usually standard in tow packages. If you are towing a large trailer then you should seriously consider a weight distribution hitch (WDH). This will move some weight from the rear axle onto the front axle to even things out and will improve handling and eliminate rear sag.
You should also look into an anti sway device depending on the length of the trailer. Some anti sway devices can be built into the WDH hitch.
Laws in your area will dictate whether a brake controller is necessary. Usually if the trailer is more than 2000lbs (?) trailer brakes are required and thus you would need a brake controller.
If it's just a small utility trailer, you might not need WDH and 7-pin wiring. Most utility trailers only have 4 pin connectors. My D has wiring for both - handy.