2009 VW Routan SE to tow Bambi II?

[PA BAMBI II]

Just looking to gather opinions on whether a 2009 VW Routan SE would be sensible to tow a 1964 Bambi II (1950 lbs. dry)? We are currently planning on using the 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee for the towing job after installation of an oil and trans cooler, but a very nice Routan showed up for sale in our town for a reasonable price and we are interested. The van would be nicer for our growing family.

Some specs:

• Maximum towing capacity: 3500 lbs.**
• Maximum payload: 1200 lbs.**
• Gross weight: 5707 lbs.

I know Ace is towing his Caravel with a Grand Voyager...I think the Routan would do the job if we pack lightly. Any thoughts out there as we are considering this option?

Thanks-

Ben

[PA BAMBI II]

The van is already set up with a 2" receiver and a 7 prong plug...I am guessing it has other tow mods as well...

[aceflys]

Originally Posted by PA BAMBI II

Just looking to gather opinions on whether a 2009 VW Routan SE would be sensible to tow a 1964 Bambi II (1950 lbs. dry)? We are currently planning on using the 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee for the towing job after installation of an oil and trans cooler, but a very nice Routan showed up for sale in our town for a reasonable price and we are interested. The van would be nicer for our growing family.

Some specs:

• Maximum towing capacity: 3500 lbs.**
• Maximum payload: 1200 lbs.**
• Gross weight: 5707 lbs.

I know Ace is towing his Caravel with a Grand Voyager...I think the Routan would do the job if we pack lightly. Any thoughts out there as we are considering this option?

Thanks-

Ben

Hey Ben

I love my Grand Caravan. It rides so nice and gets great MPG. I see Andy T likes them too.

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f42/...tml#post739744

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f42/...tml#post742916

Ace in PA

[phbarnhart]

Sounds like that van would work well for your purposes. You should make sure that it's got a transmission cooler and brake controller (but you probably know that). The comparison to the Grand Caravan is pretty appropriate because they're, mechanically, the same thing (but you probably know that, too).

[MrUKToad]

Minivans make great tow vehicles, despite what some of the traditionalists might tell you. They're relatively wide, low and long and today's engines provide good power and adequate torque. Set them up correctly with oil coolers, brake controllers, weight distribution and sway control and you not only have a very effective tow vehicle but also one that when not towing (which is most of the time) will return a sensible gas mileage.

With the addition of a modified hitch receiver, our 2011 Toyota Sienna does a great job with a much heavier trailer than the Bambi II, so I think the Routan will work for you.