What Versions of 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trail Hawk Can be Flat Towed behind Motorhome

Question:

Why can it not be towed on a dolly untill I get it flat tow ready?

asked by: Keith B

Expert Reply:

You can flat tow the 2019 Jeep Cherokee if it is a 4x4 model with 2-speed power transfer unit. Models with the 1-speed power transfer unit would have to be put on a trailer. None of the 2-wheel drive models can be flat towed but you can dolly tow front wheel drive models from the front. The reason for this is the 2WD models are front wheel drive so if you get the front wheels off the ground with a tow dolly like the part # RM-2050-1 you avoid the problems associated with flat towing.

If you do have a model that can be flat towed and it is a Trailhawk or Overland edition you can use base plates # RM-521451-5. For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Falcon All-Terrain # RM-522. This is a non-binding tow bar so you won't have to be perfectly straight or level to connect or disconnect the Jeep from the motorhome.

The tow bar has safety cable channels so you will need straight cables to fit into them, # RM-645. For lighting a popular option is diode kit # RM-152-98146-7. I have linked a video showing an example installation. Please note that Jeep issued a tech bulletin to install wiring kit 68321424AB when flat towing your vehicle, which is available at your local Chrysler and Jeep dealership. This number may have changed by now but if you tell them this is what you need they'll know what you need.

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.