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LthornM's avatar
LthornM
Explorer
Jul 04, 2014

Buying pre-puchase towing accessories

Hi, I drive a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, V6 with tow package. Rated to tow 6,200 lbs. I am currently shopping for an 18-20ft TT, trying to keep weight at 3,500lbs or lighter. I don't have a hitch or sway bar yet. Can you steer me to which ones would work best for this combo? Or do I need to wait until I buy the trailer? Just want to be prepared ahead of time if I can. Also, would you go 21-22ft? I want to stay in the safe zone for sure.
  • Does your towing package include a 7 pin receptacle and an integrated brake controller? "Towing Package" seems to be a marketing phrase that can include everything or nothing.
    Also stop and pick up some wheel chocks; kind of sucks to get the new rig home and realize that you can't unhook,cause you have nothing to block the tires with.
  • We started shopping with a 4Runner as a TV and a max tow rating of 6,900lbs. We were not able to stay as disciplined as you hope on TT weight, so we ended up buying a larger tow vehicle.

    I do like the ease of setup on the Andersen hitch mentioned above, and my wife now knows how to fully hook it up or take it off too.

    Realistically I wouldn't go over 19' with your target, or you could end up with a TT that pushes your TV around.

    The most important number to check is the yellow sticker inside the door of your Jeep. Take the max cargo number and remove an appropriate amount for all your passengers and gear. What's left is your max tongue weight (figure up to 15% of your TT's total loaded weight).
  • assuming your car has the factory tow package, wait until you pick the trailer.
    no need to get one until you know the GVWR and hitch weight of the trailer, to buy the correct WDH.
    once that choice is made, THEN come here and ask for WDH recommendations.

    don't get ahead of yourself, take your time and be patient.
  • An Andersen hitch should work well with that set up. Has built in sway control (no sway bar to mess with), it's quiet, and it uses no grease (clean).

    Link
  • If you're getting the trailer from a dealer you could negotiate everything you will need into the deal. Just make sure you're getting quality tools for the job and the best out-the-door price. Shopping between several dealers should get you a good price and knowledge of what hitch and sway bar they have to offer. Good luck, you will do fine.

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