Can a 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Tow a FR R-Pod 180 and Recommended WDH

Question:

Hello, I recently bought a used 2017 RPod 180 hood river edition, that is in like-new condition, and I have a 2003 4x4 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0 V6 w/out tow pkg. The dry weight is 2828lbs and I will be packing roughly 350lbs of gear. The unit has 2 LP tanks, a 12v battery and a power tounge jack. As far as I know, the jeep has 5000lb tow capacity and a 500 lb TW max. But I have been told that those numbers only apply if it has a tow pkg. I also already have one friction sway control bar but was told that it wouldnt be enough to tow my rpod Bessie. What WDH would you recommend? She is a relatively light TT isnt she? Will my Jeep be able to tow her safely w/out tow pkg? And do I just need the weight distribution because I already have the balls attached for the sway bar? Once we get the green light, I plan to full-time travel with her to see all, or least most, of the national parks across our beautiful country. Your expert advice and recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

asked by: Jason R

Expert Reply:

The towing capacity of a vehicle can vary depending on options such as whether or not it would have come with the factory towing capacity. The towing packing however usually includes more than just a trailer hitch and wiring so even if you add these components you still won't necessarily be rated to tow the amount a model equipped with the factory tow package does.

With that in mind, the majority of these rules come down to warranty and what will be covered if things go wrong. I cannot recommend you tow more than the vehicle is rated for but for older vehicles it really comes down to how comfortable you feel while out on the one road with the trailer. That's where the weight distribution system comes into play and the difference will be night and day. The Curt Trunnion Style Weight Distribution System part # 17300 is what I recommend and it can use the sway control bracket you have on the frame already with the Curt Friction Sway Control part # 17200 though you would have an extra bracket. Don't forget the 2" Hitch Ball part # A-90.

expert reply by: Conner L