How to Set Up Transmission on 1985 Jeep CJ7 For Flat Towing  

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Expert Reply:

By some miracle I was able to locate the owner's manual for a 1985 Jeep CJ7! For models with a manual transmission and model 300 transfer case follow these procedures to get the vehicle ready for flat towing:

1) Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position to unlock the steering wheel.
2) Shift the transmission into gear and the transfer case into the Neutral position.
3) Turn the selective drive hubs to the 4x4 or Lock position for axle lubrication.

For models that have an automatic transmission and model 300 transfer case follow these procedures:

1) Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position to unlock the steering wheel.
2) Shift the automatic transmission into the Park position.
3) Shift the transfer case into the Neutral position.
4) Turn the selective drive hubs to the 4x4 or Lock position for axle lubrication.

To flat tow a vehicle you will need base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking. We have one set of base plates for the 1985 CJ7; # DM9518112. These only work with models that have the standard factory bumper.

For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Commander # DM9511012. This tow bar is rated for 6,000 pounds and comes with safety cables so you won't have to add any separately.

For lighting you can use a kit such as # RM-2120 if you have enough metal at the back for a magnetic kit.

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

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