Towing Issues: No tow package on used Durrango, synthetic transmission fluid, drawtite hitches

Question
I recently bought a used 2004 Dodge Durrango.  It did not come with the towing package.  I figured I could add a receiver style after market hitch.  What else am I missing from the original factory tow package?  Should I consider adding a transmission cooler as well?

Thanks,

Dan R.

Answer
Adding a hitch is easy, lots of places sell them.  Get one with the right capacity.

Here is a good site to start your research:

http://www.drawtite-hitches.com/learning_center.htm

Pick a hitch with more than enough capacity.  You can always tow something smaller with a heavy duty hitch, but it doesn't work the other way, and the difference in price between the class II and Class IV hitches is pretty small.

As for the rest of the vehicle, a tow package can include differnt springs, the tranny cooler, even a different tranny.  Rear axles can be different, and consider the gearing.  With loads over 5000 pounds it helps to have a 3.73 or lower gear (Lower in this respect means 4.11 or bigger numbers).  

If your load is going to be above 3000 pounds I would recommend a transmission cooler.  These coolers have no downside, and lots of upside benefits even with small loads.  Properly installed with a valve to allow proper warmup in cold weather, a cooler is a good investment.  Get the fluid fully flushed at the same time, and I recommend a quality synthetic transmission fluid.  Amsoil makes one of the best.

Don