Towing advice needed!
[jmerritt] I am assuming that you know the 6000# van weight to be accurate, and does that include loaded with passengers or not. The 4500# dry weight on your Terry is probably more like 5500# when it is loaded, so your combined is right at the limits of your van especially if the van weight is based on empty weight. Might even exceed your capcity. I don't subscribe to maxing out your tow vehicle, because I don't think you will be happy with performance especially in the mountains. Also IMHO, the longevity of the vehicle will suffer. It's like anything else mechanical, if you work it at max capacity it will not last as long. My guess is you would have about another 1000# capacity with a 3.73 rear end and your mileage while towing won't suffer, it may even be better since you won't be working the engine as hard as you would with the 3.55. I would find out exact weights of both vehicle and trailer when loaded and factor my decision on what changes need to be made based on that information. Whatever you do, don't accept what a TT salesman may tell you about what your vehicle can tow. He won't be with you out on the road when you start having problems. Also, no matter what you decide to do you need to make sure the vehicle is equipped properly for towing. Make sure you have a large enough radiator and a separate transmission cooler. I would check to see if your van has the trailer tow package and if it doesn't, find out what the components that come with the package include. You should then get the van equipped as the specs in the package call for. If you have the mechanical ability, you might be able to do most of the additional work yourself. The rear end is probably something you would want to leave to a pro. Also, don't forget about the weight distribution hitch, brake controller, and trailer electrical connection wiring.