dm0326

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

xj_maniac_newb

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

ol"blue

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

xj_maniac_newb

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

zjrog

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.

whowey

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.

zjrog

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