2008 Jeep Wrangler

[TexasPhillip]

I tow a 2008 Jeep Wrangler using the RVi braking system. On my jeep, I have to leave the key in the ON position to tow due to the steering wheel lock.
The problem is by the time I have towed for a day, the battery has run down, even if I start the jeep during rest stops, it usually will not start when we reach our destination for the day.
Can anyone tell me the specific fuse to pull that will turn everything off while the key is on during towing?
Thanks for any help.

PHillip

[mowermech]

Why not have your mechanic remove the steering wheel, disable the steering lock, and reinstall the wheel?
If you have some mechanical ability and the tools, I suppose you could do it yourself, if messing with the airbag doesn't worry you.
Removing the lock pin will solve the problem forever, there will be no need to leave the key in the ignition.
It is beyond comprehension why the decision-makers decided that the "OFF, not locked" switch position was no longer needed!
If you had a 2006 Wrangler, you would not have the problem!

[dodge_guy]

I would double check the owners manual vs. your Jeep. I do think the steering lock was eliminated. if not, then either remove the battery cable or run a charge wire from the MH to the Jeep.

[RoyB]

I use to pull my 1999 Jeep Wrangler all the time behind my truck. I just left the steering locked. Never really ever noticed any front tire wear on the Jeep. Probably not a good idea however.

It is not good at all running down the battery below it 50% charge state. Even for the non-deep cycle start batteries.

I guess you could install a battery ON-OFF disconnect switch or just pull the negative battery cable when being in tow.

I pulled my truck negative cable once for a few days when I had to replace my alternator. When I got everything up and running again I had lost some computer settings by not having the battery connected all the time. The manual said this was normal and it would relearn itself after using it for awhile. My idle was so low it would stop the engine at stop signs. After a week of one foot on the gas pedal and the other foot on the brake I finally took it back to FORD to get my idle setting reset. Cost $90 for two minutes of work on their computer console. Don't you just love these electronic sensors. No manual idle adjust anywhere to be found.

Roy Ken

[bob_nestor]

The 2008 Wrangler Owner's Manual indicates the key must be used to unlock the steering lock when being towed. It says the key should be in the ACC position, but many people turn it past this to the ON position that that will activate more of the electrical system. The recommended way of disabling the system is to remove the negative battery cable and many people use a simple cut-off switch. I've found the ones you can get that have a small knob tend to corrode over time and you're constantly having to remove and clean them. I use an enclosed one now that has a big red plastic key and it has eliminated all my corrosion problems. If all you want to do is remove a fuse though, the one to look for is the IOD fuse.

Bad switch

Good switch

BTW, this only applies to a Wrangler with 4wd.

[sch911]

Are you absolutely sure you have a steering wheel lock? I ask because for several years the Wrangler owners manual was wrong in this regard. With the key out of the ignition see if you can turn the wheel 360 degrees.