Forum Discussion

Lisa_Boyer's avatar
Lisa_Boyer
Explorer
Aug 18, 2018

Towing a mini van

Hi again...

Researching all of this, sure drums home how much I "don't" know!

On towing..we would like to tow our Town and Country (mini van) behind the rv. How much of a strain does this put on the rv? Should we go something with less weight? Does the towing hitch and assembly make a difference? Flat, or front tires elevated?

I've been reading online and frankly, it's confusing. So many different ideas and responses, so many contradictions. I was hoping to clear the air here.

TIA
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    Aug 18, 2018
    How much does the minivan weigh loaded for travel? What can your MH tow? Is the van four down towable? What braking systems have you considered?
  • jorbill2or's avatar
    jorbill2or
    Explorer II
    Aug 18, 2018
    Putting something like a heavy van on a small gas motorhome might be a strain or even over towing capacity. Doing the same on a larger more powerful diesel pusher probably not to absolutely not. What are you using for a motorhome?
    Most vans aren’t towable 4 down .. so that means dolly ,trailer or get rid of it and buy something that is towable 4 down.
    You don’t give enough info for. Clear answer so come on back and fill us in ??
  • 2chiefsRus's avatar
    2chiefsRus
    Explorer
    Aug 20, 2018
    Lisa Boyer wrote:
    Sorry for not giving enough info,

    Class A, 2004 Itasca. Gas powered.


    You don't say which model Itasca but since it is gas powered it is likely, but not certain, that you only have a 5,000 pound hitch rating. Most, but not all, minivans would be too heavy. Remember it isn't just about being able to get it moving down the road, it is about being able to stop it too.
  • 2gypsies1's avatar
    2gypsies1
    Explorer III
    Aug 20, 2018
    Your owner's manual should tell you if and how it's towable. If you don't have it look up the manual online.
  • Bill_Satellite's avatar
    Bill_Satellite
    Explorer II
    Aug 20, 2018
    Braking is not a concern as long as you install an aux. braking system which is required in every State for vehicles of that size. As long as the RV's combined weight rating works and the tow hitch and tow bar meet specs you should be just fine.
    Your biggest concern might be if the vehicle is towable 4-wheels down or whether you have to make some major modifications before making the attempt.
  • mike2wheels's avatar
    mike2wheels
    Explorer
    Sep 04, 2018
    I've seen a number of Dodge and Chrysler minivans used as toads, but I think most had the lube pump installed to be flat towed. We use a tow dolly to tow our Town and Country and it tows nicely, but we have a 400 hp diesel and a class IV hitch. Our Town and Country weighs a bit over 4000 lbs.

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