Hello All,

First post here! I have a 1998 Grand Cherokee with an Inline 6. I do not have the tow package, and from what I understand from reading, I can only tow 2000lbs max if I don't make modifications. I have just recently purchased a 3300 lb trailer and I would like to be able to tow it with the ZJ. What can I do to my ZJ to make it tow worthy? I have heard rear air bags, tranny cooler, P/S pump replacement, new axle ration. Do you agree with these suggestions? I am not sure what I need to do. Thanks in advance!!!

Dave

trailer hitch and thats it. class III is what id get to, you dont need none of that other crap. for example, in my dads tacoma we've towed a 2000lb car trailer loaded down with at least 10000 pounds of metal (no exaggeration at all) with no problems.....now this is with a very experienced driver and taking it very easy of course.....and dont forget a 4 banger engine

Hey Dave, Welcome to CF!
First your Grand Cherokee is a ZJ not an XJ. I'd get a hitch and a trans cooler. You should be good towing up to 3,500 lbs. My '97 ZJ w/the V8 will tow 5,000 lbs. with the factory tow package and factory hitch.
Dan

OH....sorry i forgot that the taco is a a 5 speed too, that actually does make a difference......sorry my bad

X2 on the cooler. And get a quality Class III hitch. At 3500#, I'd seriously suggest a brake controller and electric brakes on the trailer. You will need a 7 pin wiring harness for that. Don't be in a hurry getting down the road. The brakes on the ZJ are barely enough for itself.

I towed a XJ on a tow dolly once with my ZJ. It did OK but it was NO FUN stopping the whole thing. Give a lot of room and really, go no faster than speed limits. I stayed at 60MPH or lower for the 200 miles I dragged that XJ. My 95 ZJ has factory tow package, 7 pin wiring harness, 3.73 gears with limited slip.

You only need a six pin connector for electric brakes. I replaced my VERY corroded factory 7 pin connector with a 6-pin round to match my trailer. My electric brake controller works just fine.

*IF* I put electric brakes on my tent trailer, I'll also add backup lights for the trailer, 7th pin...