question about a tow hitch rating

[chuy22]

My wife and I are thinking about getting a pop up tent. My question is that what hitch rating is best for towing this thing around. I have a 2000 astro with the tow/haul switch. Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[yoslick]

What does it weigh?? Check your owners manual, has a good section on towing and what your Astro is capable of towing.

[triplec]

Well you Astro has one of the highest tow rating of all the vans on the road. Approx 4000lbs but varies with package and axle ratio.

You would want either a CLASS II or CLASS III hitch installed. Both have receiver type opening in which you'd slide in the 1 7/8" or 2" ball into the hitch to accomodate the trailer spec's. Most CLASS II will handle up to 3000lbs although the CLASS III does look better on this vehicle with it's 2" receiver opening. Consider what else you might tow and what the weight is of some of the trailer you are currently considering.

If you're Astro is tow option equipped it will have an unterminated tow electrical harness in the right hand side where your jack is stored. A flat cable can be easily wired to it for trailers under 2000lbs as over that some areas specify the trailer should or must have electric brakes!! A consensious hitch shop will advise you. Go to a speciality hitch house if you want professional work and advise.