How to Increase Towing Capacity of 2012 Jeep Wrangler

Question:

What can you do to increase tow rating of a 2012 Jeep Wrangler 2 door?

asked by: Bob R

Expert Reply:

An equalizing hitch or weight distribution can sometimes increase the capacity of the receiver hitch. For example the Curt Class III hitch for your vehicle # 13432 has a gross trailer weight of 3500 lbs. With weight distribution the maximum GTW is 4000 lbs. However, the vehicle manufacturers stated towing capacity or rating will always be the final determination of how much the vehicle can tow. Any towing system will only be as strong as its lowest rated component.

I would urge you to abide by the stated towing capacity of your Jeep. Failure to do so can cause the hitch to fail or damage drive train components on the vehicle.

expert reply by: Chris O

David C.

3/14/2020

Remember to increase the braking capacity as well as the towing capacity!How much weight a vehicle can pull is not why the towing capacity is specified.Being able to stop the weight you are towing is the key.Your vehicle could probably already *pull* more weight but have great difficulty stopping it.

Chris R.

3/15/2020

Great point. A braking system on the trailer (along with a brake controller in the vehicle to actually activate them) would be a must here to assist stopping.