Forum Discussion

Explorer

May 07, 2018

Jeep Grand Cherokee?

We are new to camping with a camper, not so much to trailering. My husband and I both grew up on farms and have trailered with trucks and tractors (I did horse trailers). We don't own a truck, but we do have a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee trailhawk. The max tow weight is 6,200. Wheelbase is 114.8". We just purchased a 18ft travel trailer, dry weight of 3,200lbs and gvwr of I think 5,000. The length is not including the hitch. We do have a weight distribution hitch with sway control. I see all these things about Grand Cherokee not being able to tow travel trailers because of the short wheelbase. Is this correct? What are others experiences towing travel trailers of this size with a grand Cherokee? I obviously knew that a 30ft trailer was not a good setup. The sellers tried talking us into 23ft, I didn't even think that would be safe but thought a 18ft travel trailer would be. Now I'm second guessing it. Other opinions?

Tow Vehicles

15 Replies

jfkmk
Explorer
May 07, 2018
I towed a small trailer with a swb SUV for 6 years. While it didnt tow nearly as well as our new lwb F150, it did fine towing all over the east coast.

Take it slow, enjoy the ride, and you'll be fine.
valhalla360
Navigator
May 07, 2018
Should be fine. Yes longer is better but if you check all the ratings and they are within (most likely given what you've told us) it should be fine.
Grit_dog
Navigator II
May 07, 2018
You're good. Have fun camping this summer!
Cherokee_1221
Explorer
May 07, 2018
Thank you Jerry. Ideally I want to stay under 4,500 lbs so we don't plan on trailering with full tanks and will try to pack lighter. We've taken it out twice and it was very short distance, mostly just to get used to it. It seemed to handle ok. I witnessed a sway accident once and I'm scared to death of it, not something you'll ever forget.
MFL
Nomad II
May 07, 2018
While there are always better choices for TVs, yes longer WB is usually best, I don't see why your Jeep would not work for you. You are wise to stay with the smaller trailer. Even though your truck is rated to tow 6,200, that may not be for a high walled RV trailer.

Jerry