Can 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Tow 2,700 lb Trailer Without Tow Package
Question:
I own a 2016 Grand Jeep Cherokee, 3.6L, V6. I am purchasing a 17ft Casita Liberty Deluxe, dry weight around 2500-2700 pounds. Ive read my Jeep has a tow rating of 3500 pounds but I wanted to know if that is still the case without a tow package. Can I just add an after-market hitch and tow the trailer? Thank you.
asked by: Cristen M
Expert Reply:
I took a look at the online version of the owner's manual for your 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee and since it doesn't say anything about a tow package requirement you should be good to tow a 2,500 lb - 2,700 lb trailer with an aftermarket trailer hitch. I was seeing that for any trailer over 1,000 lbs trailer brakes and a brake controller is recommended as well. It is best that you check this and verify it with your copy of the owner's manual as well.
We actually have everything that you need to tow right here! I recommend using the Class III Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch # 75699 because it has a hidden crosstube design for a sleek look plus it is the only trailer hitch available that has a tab for mounting your wiring.
To add wiring we have the Tekonsha T-One # 118727 which is designed to protect the OEM wiring on your Jeep while providing basic lighting functions for the trailer.
For a brake controller I recommend the Curt Echo # C51180 as it is easy to use with your Apple or Android smart device. The additional wiring to operate this brake controller is part # ETBC7L on our site. This plugs into the T-One 4-Way and then provides power to the Echo via the black wire that you will route to the battery on your Jeep.
To complete a towing setup you also need a ball mount kit. I recommend checking out Ball Mount Kit # 989900 because it includes two ball mounts, one with a 3/4” rise/2” drop and the other with a 2-3/4” rise/4” drop, a 1-7/8” hitch ball, a 2” hitch ball, and a pin and clip. You will want to refer to the attached ball mount article to ensure that this kit is correct for your towing application.
I have attached some installation and review videos for you to check out.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- 1-7/8 Inch Ball
- 2 Inch Ball
- Two Balls
- Steel Ball
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 2 Inch
- Drop - 4 Inch
- Rise - 1 Inch
- Rise - 3 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Ball Mount Kit
- etrailer
more information >
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug Mount w/ Bluetooth App - 1 to 2 Axle - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Hidden
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- CURT
more information >
7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 500 lbs TW
- 5000 lbs GTW
- 7500 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 750 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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