Cherokee Chat General non-tech Cherokee chat
XJ/MJ/ZJ/WJ
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by: DashLynx

Towing Package

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 07-17-2012, 11:11 AM
  #1  
Member
Thread Starter
 
4Kevo's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Columbus, Georgia
Posts: 173
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L
Default Towing Package

My XJ didn't come with the towing package and I will soon be adding a rear bumper with built-in 2" receiver. Where can I get the towing wiring harness to control the trailer lights, etc?

Been playing with the idea of getting a 20' boat and going to test the XJ towing it (definitely will be re-inforcing the bumper, etc.) otherwise I'll be in the market for a tow rig.

Old 07-17-2012, 11:32 AM
  #2  
Seasoned Member
 
XJJeff's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: NJ
Posts: 434
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Year: 2001
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 I6 Powertech
Default

This is what I use. Plug and play
Amazon.com: Hopkins Plug-In Simple 42465 T Connector Wiring Kit For Jeep Cherokee, '9701: Automotive Amazon.com: Hopkins Plug-In Simple 42465 T Connector Wiring Kit For Jeep Cherokee, '9701: Automotive

Video Instructions.



Would also recommend installing a trans-cooler either B&M or Hayden.

Last edited by XJJeff; 07-17-2012 at 11:38 AM.
Old 07-17-2012, 12:12 PM
  #3  
Member
 
Gizmo's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Posts: 205
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 I-6
Default

I just bought a trailer which required a 7-round bargeman plug, probably what you are looking at considering the boat trailer you plan to tow. Like you, I did not have a tow package and so I had to add the wiring, plug tranny cooler etc. I had it done locally at a place with a very good reputation for doing hitches, trailer wiring etc. Glad I did because the wiring was fairly extensive, more than I wished to handle. It was not as simple as splicing into the brake & running lights. If you want to have it done, look for hitch installers who usually also handle wiring. If you want to do it yourself a couple of sources for the wiring, plugs etc. are ETrailer.com & the Hitch Store

Last edited by Gizmo; 07-17-2012 at 12:14 PM. Reason: Content
Old 07-17-2012, 12:17 PM
  #4  
CF Veteran
 
sthon's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: California
Posts: 2,570
Likes: 0
Received 4 Likes on 4 Posts
Year: 1992
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 HO
Default

Originally Posted by XJJeff
This is what I use. Plug and play
Amazon.com: Hopkins Plug-In Simple 42465 T Connector Wiring Kit For Jeep Cherokee, '9701: Automotive


Would also recommend installing a trans-cooler either B&M or Hayden.
Spot on.

Also, if you're making a bumper with a hitch make sure to build the mounts so it ties into the unibody rails using a nut strip and mounting to the stock hitch mounts. If it only mounts using the 8 stock bumper holes you can kiss your *** end goodbye when you go to pull a 20' boat.
Old 07-17-2012, 12:35 PM
  #5  
Seasoned Member
 
XJJeff's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: NJ
Posts: 434
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Year: 2001
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 I6 Powertech
Default

Originally Posted by sthon
Spot on.

Also, if you're making a bumper with a hitch make sure to build the mounts so it ties into the unibody rails using a nut strip and mounting to the stock hitch mounts. If it only mounts using the 8 stock bumper holes you can kiss your *** end goodbye when you go to pull a 20' boat.
Yep and the best nut strip you can buy unless you plan on making your own.
http://www.jcroffroad.com/mm5/mercha...ct_Code=NTSTRP
Old 07-17-2012, 01:26 PM
  #6  
Member
Thread Starter
 
4Kevo's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Columbus, Georgia
Posts: 173
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L
Default

I ordered the Dirtbound rear bumper with the nut strip. I was planning to do some extra welding under there as well.

That amazon link looks just about perfect for me needs. Now got to look into re-gearing.
Old 07-18-2012, 07:27 AM
  #7  
CF Veteran
 
91 limited owner's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: Oshkosh, WI.
Posts: 4,118
Likes: 0
Received 6 Likes on 6 Posts
Year: 1991
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Default

Depends on the overall weight of the boat and trailer you, intend to buy.
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
bryweb
Jeep Builds
31
03-28-2019 06:47 PM
skarpyona
Jeep Builds
37
12-13-2018 12:39 AM
ROCKRIDGE 4WD
Vendor Showcase
1
10-14-2015 01:34 PM
g1teg
Modified XJ Cherokee Tech
22
09-28-2015 02:39 PM
timlab1955
Cherokee Chat
2
09-28-2015 07:41 AM

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 


Quick Reply: Towing Package



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 02:31 AM.