Dud Or Stud? Does The New 2021 Dodge Durango Tow N Go Ace The World's Toughest Towing Test?

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( www.transwest.... & www.genyhitch.com ) In this video, Andre tests 7,000 pounds on the Ike Gauntlet using the 2021 Dodge Durango R/T with the new 'Tow N Go' Package.
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#dodge #durango #IkeGauntlet

[@davidbarbour9929]

Awesome content guys. Best on KZbin.

[@rkalla]

Did that exhaust sound amazing at the start or just me? Damn...

[@johnnyjoseph6936]

Tow n go comes with a crazy sick exhaust system , they sound better than stock SRT durangos

[@grisa12345]

Really the Durango is in its own class. Just like the Wrangler. Say why you want about FCA, but they’ve nailed product positioning.

[@hellkitty1014]

Best comment here. It us indeed in a class all its own. Everyone else abandoned the V8 in midsize, plus the Durango still has real room, borderline full-size SUV. Sure, it isn't as modern, but for a lot of people, the class-exclusives it does offer are more desirable.

[@zelenizub2036]

Durango is fullsize...

[@shadowwolfmandan]

@Speed Gate A previous admin (won't name names) handed Chrysler over to Fiat thinking we'd get a bunch of little 4 cylinder runabouts.. We got, MORE V8'S! Since Chrysler/Dodge/Ram is now the financial arm of the company..

[@vasili70]

I think the Durango still looks great, even though this platform and basic design is like 10 years old now.

[@zelenizub2036]

Still using Mercedes platform.

[@tritchie6272]

I would prefer for it to have more tire and maybe set just a slight bit higher. But still I think it done pretty good overall.Especially for a unibody crossover. To me for a unibody crossover to compete with BOF SUV in the towing dept is pretty impressive.

[@whatchalookin429]

And still lookin fine 👌

[@AgentSmith911]

Test the Hellcat version too 🙏🏻

[@EliteNK]

Oh my gosh, I thought this was the hell at one! I'm so disappointed now. Hell cat everything

[@DanielJaegerFilms]

Ike Gauntlet runs are my favorite TFL videos. Keep up the great work!

[@10speedr]

I wonder how your Excursion would do.

[@DanielJaegerFilms]

@@10speedr I’ve been wanting to try it!

[@usaclaimsthemoon4198]

Only reason why I watch TFL.

[@vinceladwig6401]

You shall make a feature with them with the 7.3 excursion

[@kcp7042]

I had a 2002 durango sxt with the 4.7. It was one of the best vehicles I’ve ever owned!! (Did not have the third row, which was fine because I never had that many people wanting a ride!!) loved it!! Love this durango too!!

[@brianhalliday2384]

Most people don't care about brake taps and never attempt to maintain 60 mph when climbing mountains. Personally, I hit the gas before I hit the grade and get as much speed up as possible before I hit the steepest grade, pretty simple. Keep the engine and trans cool and you are as good as gold.

[@oldnumber6]

Bought a fully loaded Durango RT in April for under $50k. It's been great and the HEMI sounds amazing!

[@joetz1]

50k sounds a lot better than 66k. How were you able to get one for so much less? Big discounts or less options?

[@mpsangha]

@@joetz1 dealer discounts, less options.... It's not that hard. Hell, if you all you get is the tow and go package you'll be at 50k msrp. The RT already has many of the premium features standard so that's all I would get.

[@oldnumber6]

@@joetz1 I have the same model outside of the DVD players. Fully loaded RT. I was able to get a good deal because the dealership was only open to essential workers and needed to sell some cars so there was a really good markdown.

[@mcosta1819]

Still have it?

[@oldnumber6]

​@@mcosta1819 traded it in a few months ago for a diesel Tahoe. We had zero issues in 77k miles. Not even a check engine light.The fuel mileage is much better on the Tahoe, but I personally miss the Durango and the HEMI

[@davidbarbour9929]

For a midsized crossover it handled 700 lb tongue weight very well. With an oil cooler and clip on tow mirrors you'd have an impressive package for a midsized vehicle.

[@zelenizub2036]

But payload is ridiculous 1200lb, wife and tree kids can't tow more than 4500lb-5000lb

[@Thirty-OughtSick]

@@zelenizub2036 1200 beats most high trimmed trucks

[@rb3tactical145]

A durango is NOT a midsize

[@rb3tactical145]

@Speed Gate Nope, it isnt. Durango is 7,100 GVWR, over 200 inches long, 76 inches wide, and has a 120 inch wheelbase. Tahoe is 7,400 GVWR and 210 inches long, 81 inches wide, 120 inch wheelbase. Both have third row seating. They have the smae tow capacity within 100-200 pounds. Have you seen a Durango in person? They are huge. Have you driven one? They are huge. A Durango is NOT a "midsize" anything. It is full size. Doesn't matter that the frame is different, its a "full size" vehicle.

[@krane15]

How you gonna sell me a $5,000 "tow package" and I still need clip-on mirrors?

[@vonworden6809]

You need to set the cruise control to 50 MPH, that way the tow/haul setting will hold the speed and downshift the transmission as needed without braking.

[@jg8263]

This video should be required viewing for those who say you can't tow with a unibody vehicle and need a body on frame. This is sufficient capacity for almost anyone not doing commercial work or pulling a 5th wheel. Obviously some need more, but this is equivalent to 1/2 tons in the 90s.

[@RickysHP]

233F coolant and almost 300F oil temp. That's nuts. That's damned hot.

[@TallTimbersUSA]

Agreed, those temps are mental. I understand that this is an extreme test, but when you see temps that high, you have a lot more trailer than tow vehicle.

[@mcnuggetapple]

Still did it with no issues, it’s nice to know it can actually do this

[@itchytriggerfinger7622]

Man that thing sounds good.

[@johnleslie9493]

Gotta love a Hemi! Thanks as always Andre, another thorough and entertaining review.

[@cameronkennedy5056]

I don’t get the dodge reliability jokes, I’ve had my 16 ram hemi for 4.5 years and it’s towed from Vegas to Dallas, Dallas to n. Carolina and back, Dallas to Little Rock and then OKC and back...and the only thing it’s been to dealership for was the exhaust manifold bolts and 2 recalls that were covered. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@Kingswood7189]

Welcome to the internet where theres many immature "adults" that are still living in the '80s and '90s even though its 2020. Needless to say, all brands across the board are having reliability issues in this day and age. I've been driving chryslers since '08 and they've been good, fun vehicles. The only negative things I can say about these vehicles is that they're thirsty vehicles, my wifes and my '04 durango (5.7l v8 @ 162k miles) and '05 sebring (2.4l i4 @ 148k miles) does burn some oil, and my '10 dakota (3.7l v6 @ 66k miles) has minor electrical issues (factory remote start, tpms). That said, everything else on these rigs are solid. :)

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

my 13 ram 1500 hemi I've done I-80west doner pass,I-15 from san berandio on the way to Vegas .I8 west imperial co to san Diego co at least 3 crossings of I10 ,I40 new Mexico. in summer and my oil temp never got over 244-245

[@bendino9016]

dodge has always used engines that were pretty reliable, and modern cars are all pretty good. if someone takes care of their vehicle regardless of make or model it should last a reasonable amount of time and miles.

[@HJ-cm5er]

@@Kingswood7189 I agree, I have a 2004 Durango and It has 30k miles and I towed for most of it, in my opinion it's been quite reliable as it only needed 3 engine swaps, that's why I only buy dodge cars.

[@Kingswood7189]

@@HJ-cm5er 3 engine swaps? All my vehicles have the original powertrains in them.

[@jan195601]

You need to get the Hellcat Durango towing on the Ike

[@WW-wf8tu]

Andre's smile count for the Ike uphill test, no less than 12. lol Which means, the Durango wins his approval test.(going up hill)

[@Sierra76Spartan]

That Durango R/T TnG is sweet. Large mid-size with nearly full-size capabilities. Not many crossovers can compete with that.

[@keithdillon2792]

Correction. No other crossover can compete.

[@rb3tactical145]

A durango is huge it is not a crossover its the same size as a tahoe

[@rb3tactical145]

@Speed Gate I have indeed and I have driven both. Plus I just replied with the specs to your other comment. Pretty much same size. Have you seen a Durango in person? Its UUGGEE

[@olliecrow3547]

@@rb3tactical145 the Durango is not huge.

[@Tony-hf9mv]

For towing I understand the comparison to the Tahoe but in reality the Durango is more slotted to complete with the telluride and palisade. It is a 3 row midsize suv and not a full size suv.

[@zelenizub2036]

It is full size suv it has more towing capacity than Tahoe or Suburban. Might not be body on frame but it has more capacity. Those midsize suv are more comparable to minivans.

[@Epik-hm8ws]

It‘s smaller next to a Tahoe or Expedition. A Ford Explorer has about the same size. I like the Durango a lot. Personally I am a V8 guy but I think they would get more sales if they offer the EcoDiesel in it too. Thought those all kill/poison themselves with the Emissions Stuff (mainly Exhaust Gas Return EGR) but met surprisingly many happy EcoDiesel Ram owners.

[@akunamatata4266]

You wanna compare a Durango that tow 8700lbs to a palissade/telluride that tow 5000…. Why ?

[@Epik-hm8ws]

@@akunamatata4266 That‘s why I like the Durango more then similar sized competitors except the maybe the german SUVs (Dodge still uses the older ML Platform if I’m not mistaken). Size wise, yes, i would compare the Durango not to a Tahoe or Ford Expedtition but more to the Explorer, Palisade and Telluride.

[@Tony-hf9mv]

@@akunamatata4266 guess you are to ignorant to comprehend please move on to cartoons.

[@christopher-watchman]

Have a 2020 Durango SRT with the tow package. It is an awesome machine... so much so, I want a second one with the third row, as ours has the “light weight” package which deletes the third row. Was thinking g of getting the tow and go.

[@renntech44]

Morning TFL. Morning everyone. Merry Christmas!

[@artillerybuff2000]

Purchased a 2021 Durango RT TNT in December. My wife and I love it! Traded in a Ford Expedition which we purchased new in 2010 and had zero issues with for 150,000 miles. It probably would have run another 150k, but I just don't like depending on a vehicle after a certain point. My only wish is that my Dodge Challenger RT Scat Pack sounded half as good as this new Durango; dang it sounds good!

[@TorridDesign]

Great video as always, love these. However, something I would have liked to see is for you to touch on the brakes/rotors that come with the upgrade. You compared it to the suburban a few times and how you braked less downhill in the Chevy, but isn't the point of the 4 piston Brembo's in the Dodge, that it can take all of that additional heat and weight while braking? The Suburban comes with small rotors and what looks to be 2 piston standard calipers, not even close to the setup on the Dodge. Just an observation.

[@ExaltedDuck]

It's more of an engine/trans/turning test than a braking test. Although if there's a reasonable way to do it, it could be interesting to add before/after brake temps as part of the reporting. But yeah, better brakes could make up for (or might even be necessary because of) less capable engine braking. It also kind of begs the question of what could happen if higher gears are manually selected, but then if it's meant to test the vehicle instead of the driver, that could potentially introduce a substantial noise factor.

[@kclm7]

In the fall of 2017, I ordered a new 2018 DD RT in red just like this one as my wife’s daily driver. I wanted the 18 because of the new hood and shifter handle (was the knob before). Just turned 40k on it today while doing the usual kid hauling duties. It has been a great suv so far. I’ve done some mods like air intake, Corsa exhaust etc so it sounds good too. I have trucks I use for towing but for daily running it’s been great.

[@locogtr6475]

@7:57 that exhaust sounds soooooo good

[@pedrodiniz9915]

I would love to see a comparison between this 5.7 hemi, the 6.4 and the hellcat! Anyway, love the videos!

[@square348apple3]

Hell cats are 6.2s

[@Ivan-sm4dq]

@@square348apple3 try reading it again but slowly

[@badgerpa9]

Nice job Andre. Not your fault but it sucks with no Mr. Truck. Nice job on your own explaining the durango. Stay safe.

[@michaelerzuah1105]

Who else thought it was the new Durango Hellcat 😂😂😂

[@trenton.tchannel1810]

The Durango has an optional oil cooler you can get from Mopar

[@markjacobson1285]

66k... I refuse to play along with crazy prices...

[@Rommer2258]

Often times there's some aggressive incentives with Durango's. But the 66 grand Is getting up there. But every manufacturer is hiking prices too

[@gardenparty3288]

$2000.00 of that is for the Rear DVD intertainment system. Another $1000.00 is a couple pieces of carbon fiber interior trim. If not needed. The price to value starts making more sense. His test vehicle was optioned out.

[@bnrlabs5923]

You have to start with an awd RT which is $45.7k on build n price. If all you do is add the $5k tow n go you’re at $50k.

[@Kingsoupturbo]

Massive depreciation, Durango's are nutso priced. Go buy a 2007 for 1200$, I bet tows almost the same.

[@specforged5651]

@Akira S I guess some people just refuse to live in today’s market. It’s not that I don’t agree with you, I about passed out when buying my 2021 F350 a few weeks ago. However, I remember when a gallon of gas was $1.00 as well. Nothing we can do about it except complain I guess which is most people’s go to reaction today. We sure get a lot of nice features though too. My new favorite is being able to see what my load inside the trailer looks like right on the dash. The 10 speed transmission, 1050 lbft and heated and cooled seats aren’t too bad either.

[@machfive916]

Great solo video Andre. That performance exhaust sounded great!

[@kcp7042]

Can you tell me why they “de-tune” the 5.7 from the 395/410 in the 1500 ram to 360/390 in the durango? And then offer the 6.2 and the 6.4 with way more power? Why not just leave the 5.7 at 395/410? If the durango can handle the hellcat......

[@Mic.D]

Always wonder that too

[@brandedmcgowan9414]

Well because the Durango is a mid size SUV that doesn't have the strudy components like in the RAM nor the 3.92:1 Axle ratio plus the output is overkill for the unibody chassis, (a true body on frame Durango would make more sense)

[@RCPhotosVideos]

Love the Durango

[@robertyoung8289]

A WHOLE lot cooler than a Suburban!

[@davidhillbrand2302]

It would be great if you could run a second loop using manual shift mode for both up and down hill. Not sure why the Hemi won't downshift more on the downhill.

[@edwardcarmack2183]

...yeah, looked like it could have grabbed another gear up hill as well, 4500 rpm was up there. I've driven that same pass numerous times, you do get an effect with elevation but that rpm still seemed excessive for the whole climb.

[@theacn5308]

Bought a 2020 RT and it’s at 30k miles now. High speed stability and the steering sharpness is quite good. Performance is adequate, nothing to brag about. Alex says his ran 0-60 in 5.7 seconds, honestly it doesn’t feel like a sub 6-second acceleration.

[@TheRamGuy]

Nearly 300 degrees for the oil temp? Wow that seems insane, I remember towing 8500lbs with my old Ram 5.7l and watching the oil hit over 250 but 293 degrees is crazy.

[@glenparks5175]

That's cause the new oil is thinner than water

[@gardenparty3288]

A quality *conventional motor oil will tolerate oil sump temperatures of up to 250 degrees, but starts breaking down over 275 degrees. 293 degrees, if accurate, is concerning.

[@TheRamGuy]

@@glenparks5175 true but more than anything it seems like it is lacking an effective oil cooler especially with the coolant only being 230

[@glenparks5175]

Yea sounds like they didnt do there homework little bit bigger oil cooler would have helped, I know my 06 ram Cummins has got coolers out the but, and I rarely ever seen anything overheating towing from coast to coast

[@Dennis-sq2nm]

@@gardenparty3288 fully synthetic oils will handle that

[@RLVTECHUSA]

amazing, i am loving my 2018 dodge durango r/t !

[@hemiaddiction]

Set the cruise on the downhill test next year please. Transmissions don't know what speed you want them to control the load if you don't tell them

[@omgcool7206]

I can't speak for other makes, but the Chrysler cruise controls automatically work the brakes for you in these situations.

[@fourdoorexpeditioner1570]

Brake controller is not all that hidden; an aftermarket unit would be mounted lower

You'd think for all that Tow&go money they'd give you upgraded mirrors.

[@ThomasFG]

Biggest difference is the final drive ratio of the 5.7L being a weak 3.09:1 Versus 3.6L V6 (3.45:1 final drive) which would have been a perfect all rounder. 6.4L/6.2L SRT (3.70:1 final drive)

[@SMiller5488]

@@TnTTyler nope

[@SMiller5488]

@TnTTyler show me, I know for a fact you see wrong, otherwise I would own one, biggest disappointment with tow and go

[@SMiller5488]

@@TnTTyler "Though the 3.09 gearing is somewhat mild, the Tow ‘n Go is a potent hauler."

[@OutlawFarmersRC]

Did you use the gear hold feature?

[@stevecalderon8304]

Why don't you have cruise control set on the down hill? It would down shift automatically and you'd have zero brake applications. 🤔

[@eugenerost2842]

I don't think that hot oil is a real problem. Full synthetic oil can withstand much higher temperatures than 300F. I have my 21 Durango with TNG on order to continue pulling my 6500 lb travel trailer, , so this was a very nice video to watch.

[@coolsquad7428]

We have a full synthetic mobile one oil witch is good for it like if we are in the hot weather or like towing it can take extreme heat

[@paulj9821]

Conventional oil starts to break down above 250*F-275*F. But modern synthetic oils easily take 350*F and above. As full synthetic 5w-20 oil is readily available for under $3/qt., running synthetic oil when heavy towing in the mountains is a no-brainer. Also the hemi's likes to be hot. It was designed that way

[@coolsquad7428]

@@paulj9821 back in 2005 it was the most advanced v8 back then and it still is the best v8 to tow

[@kham08]

I'm glad to see this comment. I just got a '22 TnG to yank m,y 5400lb (dry) Mini Lite around, and everyone everywhere is acting like I'm death waiting to happen to the entire population. Would be happy to hear any pointers if you have them to share.

[@matthewdvorsky2264]

Just watched the entire video, awesome job as always!

[@huliohavana9649]

I remember when Frank did not speak English very well. 2012 Or around there. Good on you my friend. I am learning another language. Very good on you!!!

[@infidel24]

We need a Land Rover disco ike gauntlet. Instead of how many break applications, just monitor how many breakdowns it had in the entire run. Sorry, had to do it

[@badgerpa9]

I know you have you rules you follow but if you can try setting the cruise at 55 on the way down the hill and you will have no brake applications you need to do. I would expect the dodge to be like my Jeep and it holds back to the cruise speed very well.

[@ejohnson3837]

my 2014 ram does the same thing when towing my boat. Set the cruise and it will down shift to control overspeed.

[@sketchyssk8shop]

I enjoy these videos the most. Gives good insight into these trucks' ability to pull a real load.

[@Josh47147]

Is it just me, or does anyone else see Ram 1500 Classic buyers who don't particularly tow much, cross shopping between this and the All New Ram 1500 once the Ram 1500 Classic dies in 2022? The Durango resembles the Ram 1500 Classic Express a lot.

[@vr4787]

What am I doing up at 4:40 am on a Saturday watching car reviews?

[@bobmakow55]

watching car reviews

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

ram /Durango the best gauge setup, view all temperatures at once@9:56 ,tow with a 2013 ram1500, love the set up all gauges at the same time and big number to see what gear I'm in.lot of new 10speeds the numbers are so small can hardly see it what gear one is in. I've done the Donner pass on I-80 , across I-10 /I -40 new Mexico I-15 from san Bernadino on the way to Vegas is a good climb so is I 8 from from imperial co to san Diego co your videos are one my fav to watch on towing I tell every one who wants to buy a trailer watch these

[@petergray4239]

Better than any Tv show. Keep up the high quality productions guys!

[@sokodad]

We have a 2020 Durango R/T. Seems to be a decent vehicle. We’ve had it a couple years now. I like the red. We have the gray.

[@jonahparpart3690]

Not only for the Durango, but pretty much any vehicle. Just slap it in manual, shift down and you will be able to go down with 0 brake applications. Save those brakes. lol

[@TheNewenglandboys]

Andre, Great job doing this alone! As for the Durango, because it sells at over $50,000, I'd go with the Ram Crew Cab. The Ram is bigger, more comfortable with a full crew, far more towing capacity, more horsepower as well as torque, more versatile having the truck bed, and the Ram, in my opinion, is the most comfortable, nicest riding vehicle on the road today and that ride and towing quality of the Ram can be had for less money! For anybody that hasn't driven a Ram, your in for an amazing surprise. And this is from a lifelong Ford guy.

[@bnrlabs5923]

When you get into the packages and interior upgrades on the ram it gets well north of the Durango price. I have a 2016 Ram sport that I just tried to replace. Like for like, with a few minor changes (rambox, new trail gate...) and the truck had a $70k msrp. I opted to keep my ol,d truck and possibly get a Durango tow n go instead.

[@TheNewenglandboys]

@@bnrlabs5923 Well, I didn't get the Ram box. Don't need it and the Durango doesn't have one either. If you need to go to the top of the line, pricewise the sky is the limit. I bought the Bighorn with LED package, bedliner, rear step and running boards, 4x4 5.7 with 3:92. Well South of $50,000.

[@bnrlabs5923]

@@TheNewenglandboys The Bighorn and the RT w/ Tow-n-Go aren't really apples:apples IMO.

[@TheNewenglandboys]

@@bnrlabs5923 Thats true. That said, the Ram is more versatile in my opinion. I don't see much that the tow & go can do that the Ram can't. But I can see uses for the Ram that the tow & go can't do. My point was that the tow & go is just priced far beyond it's worth. Again, just my opinion

[@bnrlabs5923]

@@TheNewenglandboys everyone is entitled to be wrong ;) :P I have a 2016 Ram now. Things like easier parking, lower overall size, covered/lockable cargo area, etc. are all advantages to an SUV over a truck. I have no intention of making use of the full towing capacity of the T&G package. The things that would make it worthwhile to me are other aspects. you're basically getting the "black" package, plus IMO better tires, better brakes, better suspension, a brake controller, and the noise cancelling which are all enticing to me. Of course, I'd have to find one in-stock in Destroyer Grey somewhere to even be able to buy it. 'round here they don't like AWD on dealer lots and the T&G is only available in AED (something most salesmen don't even seem to know) Bottom line, I'd drive a $50k 2021 Durango all day long but wouldn't want a $50k 2021 Ram 1500.

[@indieelement]

Given the huge expansion in travel trailers, I’d love to see these tests towing a 7k camper. Longer, more frontal area than a horse trailer and more applicable to what people are likely to be towing now-adays. Welcome others thoughts.

[@larrybe2900]

Gravity only cares about weight and using a standardized trailer that allows adjustment in weight easily gives an overall fair showing. IMO

[@Network-Mike]

@@larrybe2900 A TT is a giant wall being pulled through the air. A 7k pound enclosed utility trailer is drastically different than a 7k pound TT.

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

how wide is your travel trailer? how long? hitch wt,? how many people, in the Durango ? dogs?water tank full ?, and towing is not a race I alway's say take 10-15% off what the tow guides show get it going need to stop it tacoma show 6500 good Luck with that its more of a 5000 lb same with the ranger gladiator if the trailer is 7000 lb on the scale go with a heavy 5500-6600 truck

[@larrybe2900]

@@Network-Mike I agree. For testing, a utility trailer is a better choice to effectively vary weight demands. Wind won't get you a ticket either.

[@indieelement]

@@Network-Mike right? Best I can tell, Durango frontal area limit is 40sq feet. So that would rule out most any camper.

[@stringpark]

Andre mentioned that the 8700 lbs. was second in class. I thought Durango was best in class for midsize suv. Wonder what is vehicle is 1st? Also, I’ve heard it said that the 1200 lbs. payload sticker is inaccurate and should be calculated by GVWR minus curb weight, which would put it up somewhere closer to 1700ish lbs. That makes a lot more sense to me, as you would otherwise be payload limited, but I dunno.

[@keithdillon2792]

Where did you hear this about the payload? 1200lbs just seems super safe to me considering the GVWR minus curb weight.

[@bendino9016]

would be interested to see the trans temp during the test.

[@ejohnson3837]

13.40 min mark. trans temp 203

[@cummins12valve57]

They showed it

[@sketchyssk8shop]

Did you do a noise level on it? It sounds a bit loud. I agree the mirrors are small for towing. Wish the payload was higher. That way you can tow a load with a few people in it. It seems like a capable vehicle save for the rediculously high cost and noise level.

[@ExaltedDuck]

Maybe they've improved the heads a bit... I remember reading somewhere to never let a Hemi's oil temp to get over about 265 because that's around where valve guides start dropping. And truth be told, in my 6 speed challenger r/t, it takes some sustained flogging to get it up 245-ish. (or at least, it does with a good premium quality oil... half an hour of suburban LA commuting could do it, too, that one week I gave mobil 1 a shot...)

[@alexgrindnshine2522]

Coolant temp. Not oil temp. That will cause the issue with valve seats. Don’t over heat the engine. Oil temp wise I would try and keep it blow 270 degrees. Used to canyon race a 5.7 hemi and the oil temp would get up to 285 degrees. Never had issue and the car was sold with 235k miles on it, all original drive tran.

[@frankcostello7904]

The oil being high temperatuer can't be good for the engine.

[@phprofYT]

Yeah. 300F on the engine oil is highly questionable but I"m not surprised. FCA cooling is often a huge downfall.

[@jeffschira9685]

@@phprofYT Conventional oil starts to break down above 250*F-275*F. But modern synthetic oils easily take 300*F and above. As full synthetic 5w-20 oil is readily available for under $3/qt., running synthetic oil when hea y towing in the mountains is a no-brainer.

[@Rommer2258]

@@phprofYT the hemi likes to be hot. It was designed that way. For being around in a way and it's only major issues being the MDS system making it eat a cam in 1 out of a 100000 motors and exhaust manifolds they did pretty good with it

[@proffittsdroneservice1537]

Lifetime powertrain warranty says it’s fine.

[@Kmecha84]

@@proffittsdroneservice1537 lifetime powertrain warranty?

[@JonBecker81]

That oil temp was a little concerning and if the road was a little longer the coolant temp would have gotten on up there too. I know that’s an extreme torture test but we don’t see that too often on these runs.

[@keithdillon2792]

All motor oils are tested at over 300F these days and synthetics can handle between 500F-750F.

[@yournumberonepal]

I don't think you need a bigger engine. It's the computer not holding a low enough gear. Manually set it to probably 3rd or 4th and it would be fine.

[@musicalgreasemonkey]

Wonder what those oil temps would be on a hot summer day versus the winter being 294

[@shadowwolfmandan]

Honestly probably not a lot different. There's no real cooling in place for the oil except for what bleeds through the block and heads.

[@dalemllns]

233⁰ coolant temp was hot. I remove the 208⁰ thermostat in every HEMI I own and recommend it on every customer I work for to drop down to at least a 190⁰. I don't like em that hot. Federal emissions standards are passed easier with the hotter temps but still. My 2500 Ram 6.4 would hit 220⁰ regular cruising no loads. Nope.. to hot. Runs 170⁰ now and that keeps everything else cooler too. Trans temps can be corrected too with tstat eliminating block, but they want it warm quicker so you don't have premature wear and tear with that "lifetime" fluid.... but not everyone works on their own stuff these days either. Just my .02 as person who builds HEMI engines in the aftermarket these days.

[@R.Nelson]

Nice Durango!!!..I jus wish theyd bring back RamChargers

[@davidn5861]

There is the TRX.

[@ghuman148]

I have a 2019 ram 1500 I just discovered that the lowest mpg it shows on screen is 4.7 mpg , anything lower than that will show same 4.7 Just to share with u guys I really like your videos 👍🏻

[@keithdillon2792]

Andre, have you thought about this? I believe this is true. The can won't register under 4.7mpg.

[@kevinvoyer5053]

Ph as always my friend Andre’, very good job! Man I’d love to get paid to report on vehicles like that! I say, for even that price, that I’m sure you could haggle down, is right on par with the competition. With an added sporting twist. Have you seen the prices of the new Tahoe kitted out like that? Yes it has a 6.2, but this Durango just did a teeny bit better than the GMC Sierra 6.2, you ran last week! Especially considering how it is possible to get just the Tow an Go Package only, for just around 50k!

[@E67CHope]

Why did you guys never contact Fiat or Chrysler about why they never installed engine oil coolers on the 5.7 L engines?

[@bethehammer0676]

Having the oil temperature at almost 300 degrees is not good, does this thing have an oil cooler for the tow package? Although it would be interesting to see the temperature on flatter terrain with the same load.

[@yuzeyang8847]

Agree, seems like both 345 hemi and 392 hemi runs hot especially during Ike. I have 2018 rt and I never let my oil temp go beyond 250. I love mopar but FCA should address the oil temp issue. 300f is just not acceptable at all.

[@david92xj]

The factory filled Pennzoil ultra platinum full synthetic provides plenty of protection at extreme temperatures. This is about the most extreme towing situation you could be in with that vehicle, in ordinary circumstances I see no issues

[@paulj9821]

Conventional oil starts to break down above 250*F-275*F. But modern synthetic oils easily take 300*F and above. As full synthetic 5w-20 oil is readily available for under $3/qt., running synthetic oil when heavy towing in the mountains is a no-brainer. Also the hemi's likes to be hot. It was designed that way

[@yuzeyang8847]

From my point of view I am not worrying about the oil is breaking down, I am more worried about the engine wear when my oil temp is 300f. You guys mentioned hemi runs hot, but it shouldn't run hotter than x5 twin turbo v8 which the oil temp never exceed 240. To me runs hot means 250-260 but not 300. When operating temp is too high the bearing wears way faster.

[@david92xj]

@@yuzeyang8847 tow 7000lbs with that up the mountain and tell me what your oil temp is... My hemi Durango oil temp never exceeds 210 under normal driving conditions

[@BB-ow7bi]

Synthetic oil will easily handle that heat. Dead dinosaur will take it for limited periods of time. I have no concerns with the Temps for short periods of time. Also let's be honest how often do we tow 7k up a hill at full throttle?

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

towing is not a race 292 is way to hot id slow down or pull off for cool down mine runs at 212-222 high as 248 I don't over work my engine on long hauls or in the middle of July aug my co pilot she writes down the numbers for me I monitor trans, oil, coolant temps

[@paulj9821]

@@youtubecarspottersguide1 Conventional oil starts to break down above 250*F-275*F. But modern synthetic oils easily take 350*F and above. As full synthetic 5w-20 oil is readily available for under $3/qt., running synthetic oil when heavy towing in the mountains is a no-brainer. Also the hemi's likes to be hot. It was designed that way

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

@@paulj9821 thanks for the info I do run. full synthetic do oil change before every long trip and as soon as I get home 3000-4500 trips I pass on this info to other hemi owners I know

[@BigDaddy_BHJ1977]

I rather this than anything from gm or Ford

[@wildhog3217]

I wish in your towing test you would show towing an actual travel trailer or fifth wheel trailer in a pick up instead of a horse trailer.

[@AkioWasRight]

It's hard to adjust the weight of a travel trailer.

[@wildhog3217]

@@AkioWasRight Just load one as you normally would with your cargo and whatever else you put in there as if you were going camping what’s so hard about that. It’s a more realistic example of towing capabilities in real world.

[@AkioWasRight]

@@wildhog3217 Because different trucks tow different weights, and they tow with dozens of different trucks every year, all with different tow ratings. If X travel trailer weighs 10,000lbs, but Y truck only tows 8,700lbs, how do you adjust that down? You can't. That's why they use cargo trailers, horse trailers, utility trailers, or anything where you can add or remove weight.

[@wildhog3217]

@@AkioWasRight Just want to see trucks rated for towing 7000 pounds actually pulling a travel trailer instead of a horse trailer because a travel trailer will have more wind drag on it which will affect the towing capabilities of certain trucks with the range towing for example a half ton truck pulling 7000 pound travel trailer.

[@06colkurtz]

Hemi for the win. I go down with 12000 pounds and manually downshift. No braking required

[@aaronswaim8290]

294 degree oil wow

[@3076gds]

Thank you for this video, my wife and I are discussing selling our explorer and getting a Durango R/T.....I really want the 392 just not sure we can swing that.

[@SSYoung125]

Ram hemi does not have an oil cooler. Have you ever ask the developers/engineers how hot is too hot for synthetic oil? When would a consumer look at adding an oil cooler?

[@paulj9821]

Conventional oil starts to break down above 250*F-275*F. But modern synthetic oils easily take 320*F and above. As full synthetic 5w-20 oil is readily available for under $3/qt., running synthetic oil when heavy towing in the mountains is a no-brainer. Also the hemi's likes to be hot. It was designed that way

[@davidmilhouscarter8198]

Now it's unibody. It used to be body on frame.

[@Rommer2258]

For the 3rd generation they put it on the same platform as the grand Cherokee. Arguably it's a better platform the Gen 2 was hot garbage. The Gen 1 shared a Dakota platform and was typical 90s Chrysler.

[@hellkitty1014]

The OG Durango, especially the models packing the 360(5.9L V8), were great for what they were. In a sense, those models are the spiritual predecessors to the 6.4. I agree, the 2nd-gen, which was developed under Daimler ownership and subsequent Cerebrum control, was not the best. But co-developing the 3rd platform with MB really saved Durango/JGC.

[@locogtr6475]

At least they didnt pull a chevy and make it a 4 cylinder crossover like the blazer. Dodge did us good by shoving a hellcat motor in it

[@mustangdbest220]

HAVE YOU EVER TRYEE IT IN SPORT MODE PLEASE TRY IT ON LOTS OF TRUCKS

[@Retired11Z]

I remember my Ram 1500 Hemi, that exhaust drone got old on long towing trips. That’s not an issue with my Cummins 2500

[@krane15]

My sentiments exactly. I sounds beautiful on short jaunts, but if you're doing a cross-country in the saddle all day, it will quickly become tiresome.

[@moose5.9]

Great looking suv

[@singh19921000]

I dont have tng in my 5.7L hemi durango. How much towing capacity it will have ?

[@E67CHope]

Did you not know that if you had it set on cruise control while going downhill. That the transmission would automatically downshift to the appropriate gear to maintain set cruise control?

[@BIG_CMS]

I like that demolition ranch intro music. Lol

[@brockwilliams907]

Umm you took a point off for not having a tow checklist. Wtf

[@stephenj4937]

It was a combined 1 point deduction for limited tow technology (360 camera, checklist, trailer light check, etc).

[@brockwilliams907]

@@stephenj4937 oh that makes some more sense

[@Slipknot-ku4so]

TFL needs to get the hellcat Durango

[@zelenizub2036]

Downshifting helps you slow down not $100k hellcat.

[@drscopeify]

A hellcat will have much stronger engine braking.with the increase in pressure as he said in the video...

[@markryl-kuchar2373]

The coolant and oil temperature at the end of the uphill run is very concerning as that thing is designed to tow they shouldn’t get that hot

[@hellkitty1014]

Oil temp, yes. But 233 coolant running at WOT under tow, uphill is not too terrible.

[@paulj9821]

Conventional oil starts to break down above 250*F-275*F. But modern synthetic oils easily take 350*F and above. So there is nothing concerning about the temps. As full synthetic 5w-20 oil is readily available for under $3/qt., running synthetic oil when heavy towing in the mountains is a no-brainer. Also the hemi's likes to be hot. It was designed that way

[@wildhog3217]

I wish you would instead pull a 7000 pound travel trailer.

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

with 4 people and 2 large dogs

[@donkeller6399]

Impressive for a unibody, at altitude/grade, 50/50 electronic transfer in tow mode, yes? 360 hp (what, 310 at wheels?) and 3.09 gears - Durango still 💪

[@TnTTyler]

It has 3:70 gears

[@Highaltitude45]

Hemi calls for 89 octane and while towing you should be running premium....

[@crisz12883]

I think of you would of gotten the tow & go with the srt brake option which is bigger then the standard brembo brakes you would of been golden!

[@bryandepiazzy1572]

300 degree oil temps. Yea that motor isn’t lasting a while if constantly towed at that capacity

[@mikek5298]

Just exactly how many miles of continuous 7% grade do you think there are in North America? And, just because other vehicles have no readout for oil temperature doesn’t mean they wouldn’t be at or over 300 degrees too. Stop being such a fan boy and THINK next time.

[@paulj9821]

Conventional oil starts to break down above 250*F-275*F. But modern synthetic oils easily take 350*F and above. As full synthetic 5w-20 oil is readily available for under $3/qt., running synthetic oil when heavy towing in the mountains is a no-brainer. Also the hemi's likes to be hot. It was designed that way

[@gardenparty3288]

Not to be critical but, who with any towing/trucking experience goes off a steep grade in their tallest gear? Respectfully. Not me, ever. 60 years experience.

[@rb3tactical145]

Oil temp is high bc the Ram trucks with tow package come with an extra oil cooler, why does this not? When it is equipped with "tow" package

[@daves1646]

Sweet sounding tow rig!! 4.7 too!! Been looking for next tow for a smallish TT and drooling over TowNGo as possible solution in Durango. Smooth ride but able to pull. Shame Dodge can’t find oil cooling to be important. It’s just the lifeblood of that sweet sounding mill. Cross country means Rockies, Sierra’s, Cascades and poor oil cooling is unfortunate. Let Dodge know, OK? Thanks for the great look at R/T TowNGo!

[@BullittKid08]

Its a 5.7L if you're referring to the engine displacement. 4.7 is 9 years retired

[@jakeZduramax]

For some reason I thought Ike was a 11% grade. When I hit a hill with my zr2 that was 11%, I was like Jesus the Ike is crazy 😂😂

[@kevinvoyer5053]

I believe Interstate highways are 7% max.

[@jakeZduramax]

@@kevinvoyer5053 yeah I was off road when I hit the 11%, be scared on an interstate going up a 11% lol