Nissan Armada 2010 SE

[Jhawk44]

I just bought a 2010 Armada with 29,000 miles. It is certified used. Regretfully, I didn't do as much research as I thought I had. It seems the 9,100lbs towing is only on the Platinum model or on 4X2 with optional tow package. It seems this package includes a brake controller, and some suspension enhancements.

We currently have a Jayco popup, but are planning to upgrade to a travel trailer. My parents pull a Crossroad Cruiser and we want something between that and our popup.

Can anybody comment on things I can do to increase the safe towing capabilities of the Armada? I posted some of this in an Armada specific forum and they talked about "helper bags" and brake wiring. What about changing suspension?

Any trailer I get will have anti-sway as well as weight distribution.

[Jhawk44]

Wow, thanks for all the great input! We are now "shopping" for our trailer. Do I need helper bags? Do I need a brake controller installed?

[jwomack]

There is a great difference in safely towing a load ond in being able to move it. I am not familar with the Armada (or any other Nissan P/U) and do not know its capacity. I did however buy more 5vr than my 2500HD 6.0 gasser could handle (I was dumb enough to believe the RV salesman that a 3/4 ton was fine for pulling the 5vr). I added airbags and could move fine on our relatively level highways along the coast, but suffered greatly the first time I tried to pull in the hills. Fuel usage was also terrible at 5.0 - 5.5 mpg. I was always leery of stopping ability and stability. Moved up to a 3500HD Duramax dually and all problems solved plus 11 + mpg. Expensive lesson learned, but now safely within the capacities of my TV.

[dlovitt]

I'll second what Jimmy said. You do not want to find out you have a problem the first time you are descending a 8% grade and can't get your rig slowed down. You just have to do the math-there are no shortcuts.

[RustyJC]

In addition to the receiver hitch and brake controller wiring, trailer tow packages often include larger or supplemental transmission oil coolers, engine oil coolers, lower (higher numeric) axle ratios, anti-roll bars, stiffer springs and shocks and other vehicle upgrades.

That notwithstanding, no kluges that you add on to your vehicle are going to change the GVWR and GAWRs shown on the sticker in the driver's door jamb, nor will they change the manufacturer's GCWR.

Rusty