Base Plates, Wiring, Safety Cables, and Braking System to Flat Tow a 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Question:

I have a stowmaster tow bar and I am needing a baseplate for my 97 jeep grand cherokee is the part #1411 the correct one ? also is there any cutting ,welding or holes to drill? thanks

asked by: Tom W

Expert Reply:

For your 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Stowmaster tow bar, you can use either Standard Base Plates, # 1411-1 or XL Base Plates # 1411-2(no longer available). The difference is that the XL base plates feature removable draw bar arms. There is no cutting, welding, or holes that need to be drilled to install either one of these base plate kits.

To complete the towing set up for your Jeep, you will need safety cables, lighting, and a supplemental braking system as required by law. For safety cables, I recommend RoadMaster 64 Inch Double Hook, Coiled Safety Cables, # RM-643. For lights, there are a couple of options. If you do not plan on towing the Jeep often, I recommend magnetic light kit # RM-2120.

If you do plan on towing it frequently, I recommend installing diodes, # 38955. I have included a video along with a couple of FAQ articles on tow bar wiring that should help in choosing the best light kit for your application along with how to go about wiring them.

For a braking system, the easiest to use and install would be the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, # RM-9400. This system installs quickly so you are ready to go in minutes. It engages the towed vehicle brakes proportionally to how much the towing vehicle is braking, reducing wear of both vehicles brakes.

Finally, you will need to check with the manufacturer and/or your vehicle owners manual for instructions on the proper procedure for towing your vehicle because some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, an axle disconnect, drive line disconnect, or free-wheeling hubs before they can be towed.