What's the Heaviest Trailer a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is Capable of Pulling

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(375)

$189.50

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(809)

$757.07

Question:

I have a 2016 Cherokee trailhawk with a 3.2 six and the factory towing package. The tow weight is 4500 lbs and the hitch weight is 450. I will be carrying a 2014 BMW R12 RT plus some gear so I’m figuring 1,000 lbs. I am looking at small toy haulers, how heavy of a trailer could I pull?

asked by: Jim G

Helpful Expert Reply:

I've looked up the owner's manual for your vehicle and have confirmed that your Cherokee Trailhawk is rated for a maximum of 4500 lbs of trailer weight and a maximum 450 lbs of tongue weight. This means that the weight of the trailer plus its contents cannot a) weigh more than 4500 lbs and b) exert more than 450 lbs of downward force upon the trailer ball. The owner's manual goes on to state that for trailers weighing above 3500 lbs, using a weight distributing hitch is mandatory from FCA's perspective. Actually, we recommend weight distribution be used on any trailer that weighs half or more what the vehicle weighs, which in your case would be about 2000 lbs and above.

All this being said, because you can pull up to 4500 lbs doesn't necessarily mean you should. Due to its fairly short wheelbase, the Cherokee is very susceptible to trailer sway problems caused by cross winds or turbulence from oncoming or passing traffic. Weight distribution will transfer a portion of the trailer's tongue weight to the front vehicle axle, evening out the ride height. Many weight distribution systems include a sway control component, which is what I'd highly recommend. Use of a properly rated and set up weight distribution system can change what could be a harrowing experience into an enjoyable one.

Weight distribution systems are rated by the range of trailer tongue weights they can handle. Since you'd want to keep that to 450 lbs or below, I'd recommend the Equal-i-zer # EQ37060ET which is perfect for the recommended trailer size.

I've done some looking around, and there are certainly some small toy haulers that your Cherokee could theoretically handle, but my advice to you would be to travel as light as possible and observe the vehicle's capacity limitations.

I've linked you to a product demonstration video for the weight distribution hitch I recommended as well as a link to some help articles you might find interesting.

expert reply by: Mike L