How to Find the Flat Towing Procedure and Parts Needed for a 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Take a look in your owner's manual for a recreational towing section or in emergency towing to determine the proper procedure/gear that your 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee needs to be in for flat towing. I can only go back to 2004 online so I cannot check the 1997 model year but I can tell you all the parts you will need.

First, you will need base plates for the Jeep. If you want removable base plates (so they are not easily noticeable at the front of the vehicle when not towing it) I recommend # 1411-2. If you don't mind having them present all the time I recommend # 1411-1 which do cost less.

For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Falcon 2, # RM-520. This tow bar is rated for 6,000 pounds and will fit either set of base plates listed above. You will also need safety cables, # RM-643.

For lighting there are a couple of options. First you could use a rear mounting kit # RM-2120. For a more permanent option I recommend the bulb and socket kit # RM-155. Either of these kits will bypass the vehicle wiring so you want have to splice anything in.

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.

expert reply by: Michael H

0