Can someone give me an idea of what popup are below 1,500lbs

[jimmy braden]

I think I am at a 2k+ limit on gvwr for a 2002 caravan. It will need a transcooler and maybe and Oil cooler.

But I really need to get a general idea what would be the size limit (or even models) for a popup?

I figure anything over 1500lbs is right out.

[K-Star]

Not sure what motor you have in your caravan but the 2002 towing guide (here) indicates up to 3800 lbs with a V6 motor and the towing package (3500 lbs if 4WD). That is the only listing for a Caravan (no 4 cylinders). You can also check the door jamb of your vehicle. It should list the towing rating of that particular vehicle. You are looking for things like GCWR, GVWR and Axle Ratings.

Of course you will need the tranny and oil coolers. You may want to check what else comes with that towing package. Some also include a power steering fluid cooler.

Most pop-up manufacturers make units starting roughly around 1000 lbs. up to 3500 lbs. To name a few, Starcraft, Coleman, Rockwood and Jayco.

This is the time of year when the RV shows are starting up. I suggest you go to a few shows and see what is out there and what is available in your weight range.

[jimmy braden]

Its the 3.8 liter.

Hmm. I thought it was less, but you might be right. I was on a chrysler forum - http://forum.chryslerminivan.n...orumdisplay.php?f=38 and I thought they said the towing package included

Oversized alt-bat and rear springs. Its been pretty well used as a kid hauler for 6 years and is just now nearing 100K miles. I figure I will start with getting the hitch and wiring and then start looking for a popup. Maybe 2K is not quite a hard fast cutoff...but I really dont want to push it too far.

thanks

[K-Star]

like I said, check the door jamb for the real ratings. That will indicate the weight trailer you can pull. With 100K miles you may want to stay on the lighter side.

Remember:

GCWR = Tow Vehicle [loaded] weight + trailer [loaded] weight. I always use the trailer GVWR for this value as that is the max the trailer can weigh.

GVWR = Tow Vehicle [loaded] weight + amount of weight a loaded trailer will add to the tow vehicle

[Superslif]

Having owned a 99' Coleman pop-up for 6 seasons I can tell anyone if your looking to get a pop-up, get one with the front storage trunk. Usually ones with the front storage trunk will increase the over-all length by 2 feet. (well worth it)...We had the Coleman Cheyenne model which was a medium sized one with a 10' box plus 2' for the front storage trunk. I believe the dry weight was 1950 lbs. We towed it with a V-6 Toyota SUV. The storge trunk was used for chairs, toolbox, leveling blocks, tarps, firewood, brooms, grill, mat .....We used our Coleman about 225 nights over 6 years with 100% satisfaction. Here are a few pix's 99' Coleman

[EvTech]

Along with the more common canvas PUPs, look at the Aliner and the Chalet. They are hard-sided, quick set-up, and very light. However, they are not roomy.