> Since the Aspen has a slightly softer suspension for that luxury feel, I’m a bit concerned about rear-end sag and trailer sway on the highway.

Yo! Honestly, I totally get the concern. I've spent a ton of time dialing in my 5.7L Hemi setup because that soft rear suspension definitely likes to squat under a 5,000+ lb load.

For your situation, I'd suggest grabbing the Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control Weight Distribution Hitch 90-00-1000 rated for 10,000 lbs. It's a total game changer for sway control and keeps the front tires planted. To fix that annoying sag, don't overthink it—just install some Air Lift 1000 Air Spring Kit 60818. They're super affordable and you can adjust the PSI depending on your load.

As for the brakes, since the Aspen is basically a Durango twin, it's super easy. Get the Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Proportional Controller 90195 along with the Tekonsha 3020-P Plug-In Wiring Adapter. It literally just plugs into the port under your dash near the steering column. It makes the towing experience sooo much smoother. Good luck!!

> Since the Aspen has a slightly softer suspension for that luxury feel, I’m a bit concerned about rear-end sag and trailer sway on the highway.

Sooo I totally get being on a budget cuz camping gear adds up FAST. For your situation, I would suggest looking at the Curt 17062 MV Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control for around $300. It's way cheaper than those fancy $600 systems and basically does the same thing for a 5,200 lb trailer.

Instead of expensive air bags, I actually used Suncore 40F-15-R-PAIR Rear Air Helper Springs which are like $100 and help that Chrysler squat immensely. For the brakes, if you wanna save money and avoid a shop install, look for the Curt 51110 Venturer Brake Controller. It’s usually under $60 and is super simple. Honestly, you dont need the most expensive stuff to be safe, just gotta make sure everything is dialed in right before you hit the road. Good luck with the Hemi, they're beasts! 👍

Seconding the recommendation above! Honestly, that soft suspension is definitely the biggest weak point when towing with the Aspen. I've been towing for years and safety is basically my top priority, so I always say it's better to over-prepare than have a scary moment on the highway.

If you want an alternative to air bags, you might wanna check out the Timbren SES Suspension Enhancement System DR1500DQ. They're basically heavy-duty rubber bump stops that only engage when you're loaded down, so you keep that luxury ride when you're empty.

Also, for the hitch, the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch BXW1000 is a solid choice because it uses tension bars to kill sway before it even starts. Just make sure you get a pro to help with the initial dial-in if you're feeling unsure... it's worth it for the peace of mind tbh! gl with the setup!

Quick question—before I share my experience, do you happen to know your trailer’s actual tongue weight? When you’re pushing 5,200 lbs, that weight distribution is EVERYTHING for safety! Also, are you gonna be towing through a lot of hilly terrain or mostly flat ground?? Just wanna make sure I suggest the right setup for ur specific trips. Honestly, I love these SUVs for camping!

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> do you happen to know your trailer’s actual tongue weight? When you’re pushing 5,200 lbs, that weight distribution is EVERYTHING for safety! I totally agree with that point because if your balance is off, the Hemi power wont even matter. Ive had my Aspen for ages and honestly the biggest long-term thing I noticed is how much heat builds up when pulling. Heres a couple quick things I learned the hard way:

• Visibility is a big issue so I suggest grabbing Milenco Grand Aero 3 Towing Mirrors since they fit the Aspen mirrors pretty well and dont vibrate too much.
• Keep an eye on your transmission fluid levels and color regularly if youre doing long hauls because that 5.7L works hard and gets hot. Maybe look into a Hayden Rapid-Cool Transmission Oil Cooler if you plan on hitting any mountain passes. It really helps keep the temps stable which is basically the best thing for the life of your SUV tho. Hope that helps!

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