Anyone Tow With A Minivan?

[Megastink]

I want a boat, maybe a tracker 175 or 190. I currently drive a '01 Dodge Grand Caravan. It has a 3.3L V6 and is rated to tow up to 3500lbs.

At a recent trip to the lake, I saw a guy pull up with the same can as me, albeit newer, hauling a 19' Stratos!!! I couldn't believe it!

Does anyone else tow with a minivan? What upgrades should I make (rear suspension/ tranny cooler/air intake/brakes)???

[OkobojiEagle]

I've been towing my 16' aluminum boat with various mini-vans for the better part of two decades with no vehicle upgrades. I like the visibility allowed when backing down the boat launch with the back hatch open!

oe

[tomustang]

I can only find ratings up to 1800lbs.

One big factor you'll need is power, you don't want to get stuck trying to get up a hill. Just cause the towing capacity says you can and you can drive it on flat land fine doesn't mean you can pull it uphill. Same goes for braking. Since you're in PA you'll know those Appalachians are bad on hills

Never been into the caravan crowd so I couldn't give you a real answer but upgrading your minivan with bigger calipers/rotors, rebuilding the trans to handle pulling could cost more than what it's worth.

I suggest you trade in for an suv that's rated with more power/capacity

[Megastink]

I can't afford a car payment. The minivan was free and is paid for. Looking to upgrade what I think is a capable vehicle. A tracker pt 175 is under 1,700lbs loaded. That half what my van is rated for, and that's my little rule of thumb.

Just wondering what everyone's experiences were.

[Mr_Scrogg]

I pulled my Lowe Stinger 170 with a Honda Odyssey. It has a Tranny Cooler, a rather large one at 11"x7". It pulled it and I could tell it was back there. My rig weighed in at 1900lbs. (I think). One thing I didnt like was how it made the rear sit low. A weight distribution hitch would be beneficial in helping it tow, SAFELY. Also remember yoy need to be able to stop that weight. Cautious driving, looking ahead, and using your head are key. I chose to bite the bullet and get a truck. Simply cause I wanted to pull, carry camping gear, and the family on weekend trips. The Odyssey COULD NOT handle that.

If you do pull with the van, dont go in overdrive unless you got a steady flat land. Tranny looking for the right gear causes heat, heat kills transmissions.

You can do it, but dont think you can pull a 20' Ranger with it.

[BradH]

My Dad towed a Tracker 175 with a Chrysler Town & Country.  It had the tow package.  It did just fine.

[bluezed]

You should be able to handle it just fine.  You'll want a tranny cooler and good brake pads and fluid like others have mentioned. 

 

I used to have an S2000, and there is a guy on the S2000 forums that tows more than just track tires with his...

 

 

 

 

I think you'll be fine.