When Is Weight Distribution Needed For A 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 5.7 Hemi

Updated 06/12/2017 | Published 06/09/2017

Question:

Can I safely tow a 29foot camper that weights 6500lbs fully loaded with my 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 5.7 Hemi? The camper has e-brakes on both axles and I have a nice Tekonsha Prodigy P3 brake controller and wiring harness I bought from you previously that Ive already used with my 4000 lb fully loaded, 20foot long dual axle UTV trailer. I also have a class IV weight distributing hitch with sway control. Crunching the numbers I think Ill be ok but i wanted your professional opinion on towing with a Jeep Grand Cherokee.

asked by: Craig S

Expert Reply:

Per the manufacturer's recommendation, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 5.7L has a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 lbs. Therefore, yes you can tow your 6,500 lb trailer with your Jeep. As the gross trailer weight (GTW) is well over the 50% of your gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), I strongly recommend the use of a weight distribution system.

In order to choose the proper weight distribution system, you will need to calculate your total tongue weight. This can be done by using a tongue weight scale such as the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale part # e99044 to measure your trailers loaded ready to tow tongue weight. In addition to the trailer's tongue weight, you will also need to add any cargo stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle in order to determine your towing setups total tongue weight.

A weight distribution system will not only help distribute the trailers weight across the front and rear axles, but will also help to reduce and prevent trailer sway. For a total tongue weight of 700-1,000 lbs, I recommend the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control part # EQ37100ET as this is one of my favorite weight distribution systems in that the 4-point sway control system is like no other in it's ability to safely handle crosswinds and other sway causing elements.

I have attached our weight distribution help article in addition to a tongue weight FAQ for your review.

expert reply by: Conner L