Weight Distribution and Wiring for 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Towing 14 Foot Enclosed Trailer  

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Expert Reply:

Weight distribution systems are classified by the tongue weight of the trailer, so the logical first step would be to determine the fully loaded tongue weight of the trailer, this figure should include the weight of anything stowed in the tow vehicle cargo area behind the rear axle. I'll link you to an article showing a couple of ways to determine this.

An enclosed trailer can really benefit from a weight distribution system that has a sway control component. Enclosed trailers are especially susceptible to trailer sway caused by cross winds and passing or oncoming traffic, which is why a good sway control system is crucial. The Reese Strait-line is the most effective sway control weight distribution system we offer.

The Reese # RP66073 Strait Line system you'd looked at would be highly effective on a trailer with a tongue weight ranging from 400-800 lbs. If the tongue weight is greater than 800 lbs, I'd go with the higher rated # RP66074. The shank you need will depend on the level height of the hitch on your Cherokee, but the # RP54970 from Reese should be a good choice. You'll also need a trailer ball. Use # A-90 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.

What if any trailer connector is on your vehicle? What you'll need to do to wire the vehicle will depend on how it's equipped and whether or not your trailer has brakes. This leads to a number of different scenarios.

If If your trailer doesn't have brakes, all you'd need in the way of wiring is part # 118727 if the vehicle does't already have a trailer connector. This provides a 4 pin connector. If the trailer has a 7-way, you can use a # 37185 adapter. If the vehicle has a 7-way and the trailer has a 4-pin, use an # PK12716 adapter.

If the trailer does have brakes and the vehicle is equipped with the factory 7-way, you'd choose a brake controller like the easy to use Tekonsha Primus # TK90160 and the # TK93VR wiring harness that plugs into the factory connector above the emergency brake pedal. If it the vehicle doesn't have a 7-way, use the # 118727 mentioned above along with our Brake Controller Install Kit, part # ETBC7.

expert reply by: Mike L

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