Forum Discussion

rowekmr's avatar
rowekmr
Explorer
Dec 15, 2018

07 Aspen 5.7l (or Durango) Towing

Just got a 07 Chrysler Aspen Ltd with the 5.7l Hemi and wanted to hear from those who tow with it. I was thinking of using it to move a Mustang GT conv't with a Uhaul trailer so I'm guessing about 6000-6500 trailer weight.

I have only put 1k miles on it thus far but I believe the engine has plenty of power/torque but wonder about the rear suspension which seems really light for a vehicle rated to tow 8K.

Any common issues with the truck? Mines has a start up tick that goes away that I believe is a broken exhaust manifold stud.

Any popular mods? I was thinking of aftermarket exhaust but on the fence for cold air kit.
Tow Vehicles
  • rowekmr's avatar
    rowekmr
    Explorer
    Jan 23, 2019
    Sorry for late update. It towed the Mustang without issues. I was surprised that the 4 flat connector still worked and the U haul trailer (2200#) had surge brakes so didn't have to worry about brake controller.

    It could be the design of the trailer that has the vehicle so far forward but it appeared the rear suspension was sagging too much. It could be from a soft suspension or the trailer design. The engine had plenty of torque and the tow haul mode on the trans worked well.

    I've towed similar loads with my Explorer and Navigators and it seemed to have more umph.
  • dodge_guy's avatar
    dodge_guy
    Explorer II
    Dec 15, 2018
    You’ll probably be towing around 5500 lbs. the Aspen will do good with that weight and virtually no frontal area. I’m guessing it has the 3.55 gear? 3.90 was an option but not many came with them. Either one will work. They were solid trucks. And yes it probably a broken exhaust bolt.
  • Grit_dog's avatar
    Grit_dog
    Navigator
    Dec 15, 2018
    What was the precaution? Thought Hemi didn't have enough snort to yank a boat in hi range?
    That model of vehicle is a pretty decent tow rig. No problem towing a little car on an open trailer.
    Fwiw an old co worker had a Hemi Aspen and a similar year Avy. He claimed the Aspen Durango pulled his (6000?lb) boat better than the Avy.
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    Dec 15, 2018
    “so I'm guessing about 6000-6500 trailer weightL

    Guessing? Why? Either it, your family and stuff meet or are under gross weight and payload or not. Above either or both of those numbers is unsafe for you, your family and me driving near you. Nothing can go wrong within a hundred miles...you bet it can.
  • PhilipB's avatar
    PhilipB
    Explorer
    Dec 15, 2018
    WE have a 08 Aspen. Towed our boat a couple times, but only around 100 miles each way. I'm guessing around 8000 lbs. No problems. Checked trans fluid the first time. No issues. Did use low 4wd to pull boat up ramp, but that was just a precaution.

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