Parts Needed To Economically Flat-Tow My 1999 Jeep Cherokee 4x4

Updated 10/10/2011 | Published 10/04/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Tracker Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs

(81)

$335.00

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(43)

$77.31

RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

(654)

$71.00

Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(56)

$1930.00

Question:

Cost is an issue so not really looking at Blue Ox products, but I need to set up my 1999 Jeep Cherokee 4x4 to flat tow. I want to tow it behind my motorhome at a max speed of 55-60 MPH and am a little confused about getting matching base plates and tow bars and anything else I will need. Any help would be appreciated!

asked by: Jerry

Expert Reply:

I can help you with all the parts you will need to flat-tow your 1999 Jeep Cherokee. To flat-tow your Jeep Cherokee, you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, lighting or wiring, safety cables, and a supplemental braking system.

There are a few options for base plate kits on the 1999 Jeep Cherokee that can vary in price but all will work just fine on your vehicle. I would recommend the Roadmaster Classic Base Plate Kit, part # 1418-3. The # 1418-3 Kit will fit all models of the 1999 Jeep Cherokee that does not have a brush guard.

The tow bar that you selected, RoadMaster Tracker Tow Bar, part # RM-020, would work fine with the Roadmaster # 1418-3 base plate kit. The only downside with the # RM-020 bar is that it is not a non-binding tow bar, so you will want to be on level ground when hooking up.

The Roadmaster Coiled Safety Cables, part # RM-643, will keep your Jeep attached to your motor home if your tow bar were to disconnect from the hitch ball.

For lighting, I would recommend the Magnetic Towing Light Kit, part # RM-2120, which would be good if you do not tow often.

Most states require using a supplemental braking system when flat-towing a vehicle. I would recommend the Roadmaster 9400 Portable Braking System, part # RM-9400. The # RM-9400 will help you slow down faster and help reduce wear on your motor home brakes.

You should contact your Jeep dealership for additional steps needed when flat-towing. Some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, axle disconnect or free-wheeling hubs before being towed.

I have linked an FAQ on flat-towing that you may find as a good reference.