tripplec wrote:"Yes… the hitch capacity is being exceeded, because although the hitch may pull it… to be “legal” you must abide by the sticker on the hitch.
Yes, you will need to remove that hitch and install another aftermarket unit. A premium branded Class 3 hitch on THAT vehicle IS rated for 5000lbs weight carrying with 500lbs tongue weight. You get what you pay for. However, in terms of cost, you really only require a Class 2 hitch, which will give a 3500lb capacity without a problem! I hope that helps!"
You don't have to remove anything. You should add a WD hitch to your trailer which will give you the higher tongue and load ratings you need.
Understand that even though the hitch will then be rated for 6000lbs, your van is NOT.
You don't give any details on your axle ratio or if you have AWD, so follow this:
3.73 ratio = 5500 lbs
3.42 ratio = 5000 lbs
3.23 ratio = not recommended for towing
On AWD models these figures DROP by approximately 500 lbs due to added friction and power loss in the drivetrain.
As you have already figured out, tongue weight is an important issue that you must also abide by.
A 4000 lb load with a 500lb tongue will be overloading your standard hitch.
Using a WD hitch on your trailer for this same load will be within spec.
Towing capacities INCLUDE everything IN your van including passengers, fuel, luggage, etc. If you're towing with 6 men in your van, you have taken up 1000-1200 lbs of your towing capacity.
A full tank of gas will use 200 lbs of your towing capacity, etc.
I keep reading people say "heck I towed a Mack truck behind my van... you'll be ok towing that semi".
Just because you "did", doesn't mean you "should". Follow the rated towing capacities of your vehicles before you kill someone!!
Towing a tree stump a few miles down a rural road is one thing. Towing a travel trailer that is too heavy for your van down the Interstate is plain irresponsible and dangerous. If something happens you will be totally at fault and liable for the incident.... and personally I'd sue the crap out of you.
As any commercial truck driver will tell you, the driver is totally responsible for a safe load. You can't use the excuse that "my boss told me to haul/tow this". You as the driver are totally responsible for what your towing/hauling...no one else.