Trailer Hitch and Weight Distribution Recommendations for a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Airstream

Question:

I have a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Airstream Sport 16. The jeep has automatic load leveling Quadra Lift. The Airstream has a gross vehical weight of 3500 lbs. and a hitch weight of 350 lbs. I want to be able to tow the trailer on bumpy dirt roads. What is the best including road safety hitch system for my jeep and Airstream?

asked by: Jim M

Expert Reply:

First, if your 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee does not already have a trailer hitch that is compatible with weight distribution you will need to install one such as # 75699. This hitch fits all models excluding diesel models.

For weight distribution you will go by the total tongue weight. This is the tongue weight of the trailer plus the weight of anything carried behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. The trailer tongue weight is 350 pounds as you have indicated so with a system that has the proper range we can anticipate the additional weight behind the rear axle and choose a system that will cover the total tongue weight.

I recommend the Equal-I-Zer system # EQ37060ET which is rated for 200 to 600 pounds tongue weight. Bumpy roads won't be a problem and the system comes with 4-point built-in sway control. It also includes a shank and a 2 inch ball.

If you need a 2-5/16 inch ball I recommend # EQ91-00-6100 which is available separately. For either the 2 inch or 2-5/16 inch ball we also recommend a thin-walled socket # ALL643216 to install the ball. I have included some links on weight distribution and determining tongue weight for you.

When hooking up the trailer with the weight distribution system installed first couple the trailer to the ball without installing the spring bars. Let the Jeep's auto-leveling system do its thing and then install the spring bars. The system may or may not auto-level again after that.