Another towing question

[gaspode]

OK, here's a question for all the towing experts:

We're looking for a popup, and DW wants the slide-out, which probably puts the GVWR in the 3,000 to 3,500 lb range.

Our TV is a '04 Mercury Mountaineer, V8, but only has the factory Class II  1 1/4" hitch. Its towing capacity is listed as 3,420 lbs (including a 150 lb allowance for the driver, which I haven't seen on the scale for many years - but I digress...).

Adding DW and DDx3, beer, supplies, wood, more beer, etc., it looks as though we'll be right up against, or over, the limit. In addition, with the 1 1/4" receiver, I can't use a WDH.

So here (finally) is the question: If I add an after market Class III hitch with a 2" receiver, brake controller, transmission cooler, and use a WDH, will that give me enough headroom to comfortably tow a 3,500 lb popup? Will the fact that my TV doesn't have the tow package (which I think includes a 1:3.55 rear end, larger battery, etc.) be the limiting factor. If not, what will?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Steve

[tlhdoc]

This is what is included in the tow package. Class III/IV trailer hitch with 7-pin to 4-pin electrical trailer connector and 3.73 non-limited slip rear axle.