Base Plates, Tow Bar, and Accessories to Flat Tow a 1991 Jeep Cherokee

Question:

I HAVE A 91 JEEP CHEROKEE WITH A ONE PC FRAME MOUNTED BASE FOR A TOW BAR. THIS LOOKS LIKE A STORE BOUGHT ASSEMBLY. I SEE THE REMOVEABLE BAST PLATES YOU OFFER, THAT LOOK LIKE 2 INCH SQUARE RECIEVER TYPE MOUNTING. PROBLEM IS, MY CONNECTION POINTS ON VEHICLE BASE ARE ROUND SOLID BAR, WITH HOLE IN EACH FOR THE LATCH PINS. I CANT FIND / SEE ANY TOW BAR THAT CONNECTS TO ROUND. BOUGHT JEEP USED, AND THIS ASSEMBLY WAS ALREADY ON IT. ANY HELP APPRECIATED.

asked by: CHARLES G

Expert Reply:

I am not sure what type of base plate system you have but if you can send me pictures I may be able to determine if anything we have will fit. What I recommend is to install a completely new system so you know that it is compatible with a tow bar and you will get all new parts and will not have to worry about the condition of the system. You will also want to consult the vehicle owners manual for the proper procedure for towing the vehicle.

For your 1991 jeep Cherokee you can use # 1418-1. These base plates come with removable draw bars so that when they are removed you cannot really tell there are base plates on the vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. I have included a link to the installation details and a link to a video review for you.

For safety cables, I recommend the coiled cables # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting, there are a couple of options. If you do not plan on towing it very often, the best bet is a magnetic light kit, # C-ATL20A. Or, if you will be towing it often, use a diode kit, # RM-154. I have included a link to a video showing a typical diode installation.

Most states now require a supplemental braking system on the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Even Brake # RM-9400. This is a proportional system that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the towing vehicle is braking. Proportional systems are the safest way to stop and they reduce wear and tear on both vehicles.

I have also included a link to our series of FAQ articles on flat towing for you.