99 XJ, 4.0, 2 wd, automatic, stock everything. I need to know if I can safely tow my boat. Its a 17' bay boat with a Yamaha 100. Total weight is approx. 2000-2200 lbs. It's about 6 miles from my house to the boat landing, no hills or major traffic to contend with. Will never get over 35 mph. I may be going a little farther to other boat landings, but nothing more than 15-20 miles and still not on major highways or interstate. Should I look at beefing up my brakes? Maybe regearing? Am I going to have a problem pulling up hill out of the water?

 

I think you will be surprised at how well it does because Boats tend to be light on Tongue Weight. The only issue might be pulling it out of the water depending on how steep the Ramp is. But only because it is 2x instead of 4x. Having some weight in the back of the vehicle will help add some traction.

 

I don't think you'll have any problem - that's well within the tow rating.

Brakes are a bit weak on these - you want premium pad and shoes.


I regularly tow with more than that, over hills. Take it low and slow and you'll be fine, no re-gearing needed.

Dunno about your boat ramp. Should be fine but we don't know how steep it is.

 

I have a 99 4wd we routinely tow my grandparents boat 70+ miles on the highway over the coastal mountain range.