Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overlander  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Most people have an opinion about which tow components are the best. In the case of your 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Outlander, I think that the Demco # DM9519291 Tabless Base Plate Kit would be best as it does not require drilling, and it can be matched to a Demco Tow Bar System with extras. If you have the SRT-8 option you will need to instead use the Demco # DM9519291. A Powerbuilt # ALL648544 trim popper will help get the fascia off during installation without tearing up the push pins.

For a tow bar I would choose the Demco # DM9511012 “Commander II” non-binding model. A non-binding tow bar will let you easily disconnect your tow bar even if your coach and towed vehicle is not on level ground or at a difficult angle. This bar includes safety cables which are not included on most bars. It also has a tilting head that removes the need for a high/low adapter in most cases.

Next you will need a tow bar wiring kit. I recommend the Roadmaster # RM-152-98146-7 Universal wiring kit which includes everything you need to connect your RV's tail, brake, and turn signal lights to your towed car. Diodes prevent feedback and wire your car to operate as a combined system. Includes a 7-way to 6-way straight adapter cord. When you do finally get ready to plug your electrical cables in I would put a little Edelmann # 11755 dielectric grease on those connections. The dielectric grease will keep help keep moisture and corrosion out of your connections.

When your coach and towed vehicle are hitched together on level ground, the tow bar should be within 3” of level, otherwise you will need to add a High-Low Adapter. I have attached an article explaining how to measure for an adapter, and a link to a page showing all of our adapters.

If the brake lights do not work with the towed vehicle's ignition key turned to the "tow" position, you need a brake light switch kit to provide a signal to the supplemental braking system. You can use the Roadmaster # RM-751000 Universal Stop Light Switch Kit if needed.

Your Jeep weighs in about 4600-4900 pounds so you will need a supplemental braking system installed in it. This will improve braking and handling, and extend the life of your coaches braking system. Additionally, most states require supplemental braking if your towed vehicle is over 3000 pounds. If your coach has traditional hydraulic brakes then I recommend the Brake Buddy # HM39524 portable system that has proportional braking and has a wireless display for your cab so you can see your braking system status or change profiles from your driver's seat.

If your coach has air brakes, then instead of the Brake Buddy system, you will need the Demco # DM26VR supplemental braking system for air brakes.

I have attached an article below about supplemental braking systems.

Finally, you should double check your vehicles owner's manual to determine if your specific model vehicle can be flat towed and any special requirements in regard to fuses, equipment, and any additional service that may be required.

expert reply by: Les D

0