I just bought a used 2005 Durango, but no hitch!
I will be having one built in a local shop... wondering how the factory hitch is arranged: mounting points, etc.
I see some aftermarket hitches are tied to the frame rails, some to the rear cross member... none to both.

Anyone have some pictures?

Thanks, Peter

PS: I will be occasionally towing nearly 10k, using equalizers.

 

I will try to get a pic for you when i get home tomorrow. 10k is a lot for a Durango, Im sure it can pull it but handling and stopping could be an issue; even with an equalizer. I hooked up my 8k tt a few times and it wasnt the best of rides. Beleive its only rated around 8600lbs w/17" rims; give or take a few hundred lbs.

 

Photos of the factory arrangement would be great!
I am not looking for freeway travel, ever. Only simple hauling at very modest speed (under 45mph) on secondary roads.
I have several trailers, one is a car hauler that I sometimes move my Unimog with (7k) for about 8.5k total towing weight. I usually use my F350 dually but see no reason the little Durango can't do that task for the short runs. The Durango suspension is very soft, but keeping the speed down and using the equalizers should be fine.
Yes, I have trailer brakes on both axles, and use them as primary when pulling anything.

 

What size engine do you have in the Durango?
FF

 

2005 Durango 4x4 Hemi

 

Attached to the frame rails, but from what i remember the rear crossmember is the same as the factory hitch without the 2" receiver, not sure if it is the same strength though. In these pictures the rear plastic cover has been removed.

 

Thanks for the photos.
My rear looks the same as your's but without the hitch attached to the rear cross member.
I did not realize that the rear "cross member" was actually a bolt on extending past the end of the frame rails. I think I will go with a Frame Rail attached arrangement, tied to the cross member for twist resistance.
Thanks, Peter

 

double post... trying to delete

 

I have a hitch, but no elec hook up. Anybody have any ideas on how to get elec back their for trailer hook up?

 

I have been questioning that too. I have a great auto electric guy that can make a factory looking install... one thing I have learned to shop out, I make nasty messes.
But, I am guessing that Dodge used the same main wiring loom for all Durangos... with the price of copper, maybe not.
I see no empty pigtails or loose wires either under the dash or in the rear.

MileHighRango: maybe you could get a couple more pix looking up into the wiring harness near the hitch... that may be telling. Under the dash would be super cool!
BTW: you have air shocks?