Flat towing is a simple and convenient way to bring your Jeep Grand Cherokee along on adventures with your motorhome. However, not all models are suitable for flat towing.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee can be flat towed, but only certain 4WD models are suitable. Always check the owner’s manual for specific towing guidelines to avoid damage. Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe flat towing.
This article explains the ins and outs of flat towing a Jeep Grand Cherokee, including the preparation steps, necessary equipment, and safety tips to ensure a smooth and safe towing experience.
What is Flat Towing?
1. Definition and How It Works
Flat towing means towing a car with all four wheels on the ground. The vehicle being towed is connected to the towing car, and both move together, with the towed car’s wheels spinning as it’s pulled along the road.
2. Why Do People Choose Flat Towing?
People prefer flat towing because it’s simple and cost-effective. It doesn’t need a special trailer or extra equipment, making it easier for RV owners to bring a car along on trips without too much hassle or expense.
Can a Jeep Grand Cherokee Be Flat Towed?
1. Jeep Grand Cherokee Flat Towing Capabilities
Yes, a Jeep Grand Cherokee can be flat towed, but only certain models with a 4WD system suit this. You must also ensure it’s set up properly to avoid damaging the vehicle’s transmission and drivetrain.
2. Which Jeep Grand Cherokee Models Are Flat Towable?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD models from recent years can usually be flat towed. Check your specific model year to see if it’s compatible. Models with rear-wheel drive are generally not recommended for flat towing.
3. What About the Transmission?
To prevent damage, the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s transmission must be neutral for flat towing. Always follow the owner’s manual to ensure the transmission is correctly prepared before towing to avoid unnecessary wear or breakage.
How To Tow A Jeep Grand Cherokee Behind Motorhome
To tow a Jeep Grand Cherokee behind a motorhome:
- Follow simple steps.
- Ensure your Jeep is flat towable, then use a tow bar, disconnect the battery, set the transmission to neutral, and secure the steering wheel.
- Always follow the owner’s manual.
Preparation Steps for Flat Towing a Jeep Grand Cherokee
1. Step 1: Check the Owner’s Manual
The first thing to do is read the Jeep’s owner’s manual. It will tell you if your model can be flat towed and provide important details on how to prepare your vehicle correctly for towing. Always follow these instructions carefully.
2. Step 2: Set the Transmission to Neutral
To avoid damaging the transmission, set the Jeep’s transmission to neutral. This is a crucial step for flat towing, allowing the wheels to spin freely while towing. Ensure you do this before hitting the road.
3. Step 3: Install a Tow Bar and Base Plate
Next, attach a tow bar to your Jeep by installing a base plate. The base plate is fixed to the front of your Jeep, and the tow bar links the vehicle to the motorhome. This setup makes flat towing safe and secure.
4. Step 4: Disconnect the Battery
For some models, you need to disconnect the Jeep’s battery to prevent power drainage. Check your owner’s manual to see if this step is necessary. Disconnecting the battery ensures no electrical issues occur while towing.
5. Step 5: Secure the Steering Wheel
To prevent the steering wheel from locking while towing, ensure it stays unlocked. You can use a special tool or follow your Jeep’s manual to secure the steering wheel. This step keeps everything running smoothly during the tow.
Things to Keep in Mind When Flat Towing a Jeep Grand Cherokee
1. Towing Speed
Driving at a safe speed, usually under 65 mph, is important when flat towing. Going too fast can strain both vehicles, causing wear and potential damage. Always check your owner’s manual for the specific speed limits for your model.
2. Flat Towing Restrictions
Some Jeep Grand Cherokee models may have restrictions for flat towing, depending on factors like drivetrain or transmission type. Always check the owner’s manual to ensure your specific model is suitable for flat towing to avoid damage.
3. Additional Towing Equipment
You might need extra equipment like a supplemental braking system, lighting kit, or safety chains for flat towing. These accessories help ensure your tow is safe and legal, depending on your local laws and the Jeep’s specific towing needs.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Towing vs. Dolly Towing
1. What is Dolly Towing?
Dolly towing is a method where the vehicle’s front wheels are lifted off the ground and placed on a small trailer or dolly while the rear wheels stay on the road. This keeps the car stable while being towed.
2. Benefits of Dolly Towing Over Flat Towing
Dolly towing can be easier on the vehicle’s drivetrain, especially for cars not designed for flat towing. It’s a good alternative if your Jeep isn’t flat towable, and it keeps the vehicle off the road, preventing extra wear on the tires.
3. When to Choose Flat Towing Over Dolly Towing
Choose flat towing when you want a simpler and more efficient method, especially if your Jeep is built for it. Flat towing requires fewer components, making it a more cost-effective and convenient option for towing behind a motorhome.
Common Issues When Flat Towing a Jeep Grand Cherokee
1. Transmission Wear and Tear
If the transmission isn’t properly set to neutral, it can suffer from wear and tear. Always ensure the Jeep’s transmission is neutral before towing to avoid causing long-term damage to the vehicle.
2. Steering Wheel Locking
The steering wheel can lock while flat towing, which can be dangerous. To prevent this, ensure the steering wheel is unlocked before towing, or use a steering wheel lock that keeps it from turning while in transit.
3. Electrical System Drain
When flat towing, the Jeep’s electrical system may drain if the battery stays connected. To avoid this, disconnect the battery before towing. This ensures your battery stays charged, and your car’s electrical systems remain intact.
Safety Tips for Flat Towing a Jeep Grand Cherokee
1. Use a High-Quality Tow Bar
A high-quality tow bar is essential for safety. It securely connects your Jeep to the towing vehicle, preventing accidents or damage. Ensure the tow bar is rated for your Jeep’s weight for a safe towing experience.
2. Check the Towing Connections
- Ensure the Tow Bar is Secure: Ensure the tow bar is firmly attached to the Jeep and the towing vehicle.
- Verify Safety Chains: Double-check that the safety chains are properly connected and not too loose.
- Inspect the electrical connections: Ensure the lights, brake system and any other electrical connections are working and are securely linked.
- Check the Hitch: Confirm that the hitch on the towing vehicle is properly locked and secured.
- Look for Wear and Tear: Examine all towing equipment for signs of damage or wear before hitting the road.
3. Monitor the Towed Vehicle
While towing, regularly check the towed Jeep for any unusual signs or problems. If you hear strange noises or notice something wrong, stop immediately. Monitoring the vehicle ensures a safer journey and helps catch issues early.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee flat tow
Yes, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee can be flat towed, but only certain 4WD models. Always check the owner’s manual for proper towing instructions and precautions.
Can a Jeep Grand Cherokee be flat towed 2021
Yes, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD models can be flat towed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe flat towing, including setting the transmission to neutral.
Can you flat tow a Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x
Yes, you can flat tow a Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 4×4 system, but ensure it’s in neutral and follow the correct steps to avoid damaging the vehicle.
Can a 2024 Jeep Compass be flat towed
The 2024 Jeep Compass can be flat towed, but only certain 4WD models are recommended. Always verify the specifics in the owner’s manual before towing.
Jeep Cherokee flat towing problems
Common problems with flat towing a Jeep Cherokee include transmission damage, steering wheel locking, and electrical system drainage. Always prepare properly and follow towing guidelines to avoid issues.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L flat tow
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L can be flat towed, but ensure it’s a 4WD model and follow the manual for proper towing procedures. Some configurations may need to be more suitable for flat towing.
How to flat tow Grand Cherokee
To flat tow a Grand Cherokee, set the transmission to neutral, install a tow bar and base plate, disconnect the battery (if necessary), and secure the steering wheel.
FAQs
1. Can a Jeep Grand Cherokee be towed behind a motorhome?
Yes, a Jeep Grand Cherokee can be towed behind a motorhome, but only specific models with 4WD systems are suitable.
2. What years of Jeep Grand Cherokee can be flat towed?
Jeep Grand Cherokee models from 2014 onwards, especially 4WD versions, are typically safe to flat tow. Always check the manual.
3. How to put a Jeep Grand Cherokee in flat tow mode?
To put your Jeep Grand Cherokee in flat tow mode, set the transmission to neutral and follow the manual’s instructions.
4. Can I tow a Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Yes, you can tow a Jeep Grand Cherokee, but ensure it’s a 4WD model and follow the proper flat towing steps.
5. Can you tow an automatic Jeep behind a motorhome?
Yes, you can tow an automatic Jeep behind a motorhome, but make sure it’s 4WD and properly prepared for towing.
6. What is the best vehicle for flat towing?
The best vehicles for flat towing are typically 4WD Jeeps like the Wrangler, Cherokee, or Grand Cherokee, designed for towing.
7. Does the Jeep Grand Cherokee have tow mode?
Yes, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a tow mode, which adjusts the transmission for better towing performance. Always use it when towing heavy loads.
8. What type of Jeep can be flat towed?
Most 4WD Jeeps, like the Wrangler, Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee, can be flat towed. Always verify this in the owner’s manual.
9 .How do you put a Jeep Grand Cherokee in neutral for towing?
To put a Jeep Grand Cherokee in neutral, start the engine, press the brake, shift the transmission into neutral, and follow the manual.
10. Does flat towing damage transmission?
Flat towing can damage the transmission if not done correctly. Always follow proper procedures to prevent damage, such as neutral transmission.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Jeep Grand Cherokee can be flat-towed only in certain 4WD models. Always check your owner’s manual for correct towing instructions to avoid damage. Proper preparation and equipment ensure a safe and smooth flat towing experience.
0 Comments