This is wierd for me. I am a car guy...like a go fast kind of guy, but here I am on a minivan forum, feeling enthusiastic about the family minivan. Haha..

Anyways I have a 2005 Grand Caravan Stow&Go with a 3.8.

It does NOT have a tow package.

I found a hitch I like

http://www.thehitchstore.com/class-i...89-p-1102.html

However, I am undecided on what to do for a transmission cooler for the van.

There is always the universal trans cooler option but I wonder is there a nice bolt in option?

 

I don't remember every seeing an OEM version.

 

Get an OEM from the wrecking yard or call the dealer. Decent universal would be simple to install. Choice is yours really.

Biggest problem you're gonna have is sag. I put airbags in my rear suspension because I tow often, if you are planning to I'd strongly suggest them. These vans can pull some heavy loads if you just use common sense.

 

Thank you for the replies!

bilk1, You mentioned airbags, what kind/ brand/model did you get and where? I didnt think about sag, but it might be a factor.

The only trailer I am really looking to tow is a single axle open trailer with two motorcycles and maybe a lockable box on it. I cant imagine the total weight being much more than about 1800lbs. The vehicle would have two adults and two kids in it with mostly just clothing in their luggage.

Perhaps the cooler isn't needed but I think it would be good insurance? The can has about 145k miles on it(But doesn't really feel like it. Its a well made van!)

 

I'm not sure if you are aware, but if you DO have the factory trans cooler, it is in between the rad and condenser, it is nearly impossible to see without removing the lower plastic or the metal bar that the rad is bolted to. I would not tow over 1000lbs without one, these transmissions are soft to begin with.

Caravans do tow very well. I've gone double over the weight limit for short periods with no problems because I drive excessively carefully when I have a trailer. Smooth starts, long stops and so on.

Also, at 1800lbs, I kinda hope your trailer has brakes, any trailer rated over 1500lbs is supposed to have brakes. You will really feel that weight in the brakes if the van is doing all the work, you'll need to make sure you double your stopping distances.

As for the airbags, I got the Air Lift system that was made for the van. I also got hte optional onboard compressor, really makes it nice. I can keep my van level with ALOT of load, I'm talking 400lbs tongue and 5-600lbs in the cargo area. This really makes towing a breeze. THe airbags alone are about $200 and easy to install, you don't have to have the compressor. That was about $250 and was not hard, but I used a lift to do it.

Just prep your van as much as possible, change all fluids and so forth. Whenever I plan on towing for a bit, like camping trips, I change the oil. Make sure to keep your tires inflated, all that jazz too.

 

You can use a universal cooler and mount it in front of the radiator (get the largest one you can fit in there).Like b1|k1 said, change the fluid and filter. I use AMSOIL synthetic fluid. ALSO, make sure the brakes are in tip top condition. I just installed some R1 Concepts drilled and slotted rotors and Wagner pads on mine; it stops w/o much effort.