lizzie wrote:
For the past two year we have towed a KIA Soul on a dolly behind our Sprinter based Class C-. We have both had orthopedic surgeries this year and decided that flat towing is best for us. I bought a 2-door Jeep Wrangler Sport today and now we need to fit it out for towing. I would like advice about the easiest system available. lizzie
First, we need to know what year Jeep Wrangler.
If it is 2006 or earlier, the ignition switch has an "OFF, not locked" position. That position will retain the key. That is where the switch needs to be for towing, to unlock the steering.
If it is 2007 to 2011 (IIRC), the ignition switch does not have that position, so it must be left in the "ACC" position to unlock the steering for towing. That means the Negative cable must be disconnected from the Jeep battery, or a charge line (10 gauge or larger) run from the towing unit to prevent discharging the battery.
In 2011 or 2012, the steering lock was eliminated, so the switch can simply be turned "OFF" and the key removed.
I towed several different Jeeps with a simple, inexpensive, fixed arm adjustable width towbar. It did the job wonderfully well, and cost less than $175 new. IMO, however, the ultimate system is the Ready Brute integrated towbar/braking system by NSA. It is, quite possibly, the "best bang for the buck" that can be purchased!
There are a multitude of ways to hook up lights. The previously mentioned Cool-Tech harness is one. A selector switch (6 pole double throw) wired in is another. 4 pin flat connectors to disconnect the lights from the Jeep wire harness and plug them in to the towing harness is another. Adding new sockets and bulbs to the existing taillights for towing lights is another. Even magnetic mount towing lights work just fine (yes, I have used them!).
I think the Jeep was an excellent choice. Have fun with it.
