Went to the dealer today to find out what I need to make my 3.6 Crew tow 6200 lbs. They said all I needed was the hitch and wiring kit. I said what about the heavy duty radiator that you get when you order the tow package, they said according to the drop down boxes on the screen it's not available. So I said look up the cooling section and see if they have one, sure enough they did. Heavy Duty Radiator for about $435, then they both said but you don't need it because it doesn't come up in the towing menus.

So what's the real deal, i don't want to spend another $435 and probably $220 to install on top of the $640 for the hitch and wiring kit installed.

I'm sure others here want to know.

 

I specifically looked for a Durango with the factory tow package to get the additional support items. I know the dealer will install a hitch, but it won't include the additional items.

Here is what my window sticker lists as being added by the Trailer Tow Group IV:

• Engine Oil Cooler
• Heavy Duty Engine Cooling
• 220-Amp Alternator
• Class IV Receiver Hitch
• 7- and 4-pin Wiring Harness
• Rear Load Leveling Suspension
• Full-Size Spare Tire
• Steel Spare Wheel

I read somewhere (don't remember where) the dealer installed hitch is supported by Dodge for towing up to 5000lbs, and you need the factory package for them to support the 6200lb capacity.


I also read somewhere, the factory installed package includes a wiring harness with provision to install a brake controller. Apparently the harness connector is under the dash, near the driver's pedals. I am supposed to take delivery of our 2012 either tomorrow or Wed, so haven't had the opportunity to look for the connector yet.

 

Trailer sway control???? That works through the brakes, I am guessing the non towing package do not have the sensors to make that functional. If you plan on towing just get one with the towing package, it will be a lot cheaper than trying to make one and still coming up short from what the actual package offers. Do your homework, those jack bags will blow hot air up your @ss all day trying to get you to sign and drive. When they do not know a single thing about towing, if the guy relies on drop down boxes to tell you what you need for towing, he is a dumb @ss.

 

Hi

I tow a horse box in Europe a lot. I have the factory installed hitch with all of the bells and whistles..

But frankly, before I have a Jeep Commander and it was stock, no added radiators, alternator, self levelling etc.

If the system is fitted correctly, and you are towing to the recommended non-factory fitted hitch max load, there should be no problems other than the normal towing good practice.

There are stacks of SUVs out there towing stuff without all the added stuff, and getting by just fine.

Just remember the limits to your transmission, alternator and brakes and all should be well.

Just my 5cts worth.

 

The Durango weighs nearly 1000 lbs more than the Commander, so yes it does matter what you have on the Durango, if not you're going to end up burning up your motor or transmission in the process.

 

Well the towing package doesn't say anything about a transmission cooler, so I would guess you would be fine there. Instead of spending the money on a radiator, why not try a $30 180 degree thermostat. Tow whatever you want for short distances to test everything out. If it runs hot get the radiator.