Why Does Flat Towing 2018 Jeep Cherokee Require Special Harness for Power Steering 68321424AB

Updated 11/22/2018 | Published 11/21/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3635)

$575.00

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord

(3550)

$182.43

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles

(1440)

$52.27

Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(426)

$850.00

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3635)

$575.00

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

(677)

$75.12

Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit

(701)

$51.20

Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional

(836)

$1245.50

Question:

The manual says I need the Mopar flat tow wiring kit - apparently this controls something to do with the steering, but I have not been able to determine if it also controls the lights or if I need something additional for that. Thanks,

asked by: Bob C

Expert Reply:

From our experience the part 68321424AB is required on a 2018 Jeep Cherokee when flat towing. I recommend checking with a dealership for confirmation. The harness is designed to address a "wobble" or steering issue that occurs sometimes when the vehicle is flat towing. The newer Cherokee 4x4's have electric power steering. Many people reported a severe shaking/wobble while towing over rough roads. Jeep issued a Service Bulletin which calls for a special wiring harness which keeps the PS energized while being towed.

Unfortunately, that part must be sourced at a dealership as well. We do however, have everything else you may need to flat tow the Jeep.

The custom base plate kit you need is either part # RM-521447-5, if your Jeep is not a Trailhawk or part # RM-521446-5 if it is. These will connect directly to the Falcon 2 tow bar, part # RM-520. Then you can use part # RM-643 for safety cables.

To power the Jeep's lights I suggest the diode kit # RM-15267. This will use the vehicle's tail lights by connecting to the RV's and includes the cord to go between the two. To keep the battery topped off when flat towing you'll also want the part # RM-156-25 which will charge it when being towed.

For a supplemental braking system the Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251 is a favorite around here because of how reliable it is and it's easier to install than many other permanently installed systems. You should use a stop light switch kit, part # RM-751471 to monitor the DUO.

Finally, you'll likely need a high-low adapter. I've attached an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop your setup requires. I've also linked our selection of adapters for you to look at once you know what you need.

In addition to my recommendations I've linked some articles on flat towing that you may find helpful.