Parts Needed for Towing a Trailer With Brakes for a 2005 Jeep Liberty Limited

Question:

Hello, I bought a trailer hitch receiver from you for a 2005 Jeep Liberty Limited. It is installed and I am looking to start towing. However, I new to towing and have a few questions: 1 I am looking to tow a travel trailer that has electric brakes. Do I need a brake controller to tow it? Is it based on trailer weight, meaning if the trailer is light enough you dont need a brake controller? 2 Would weight distribution and sway control be recommended for a small SUV like the Jeep Liberty?

asked by: Scotty M

Expert Reply:

You will need wiring and a brake controller in order to tow a trailer with brakes. If your Jeep Liberty does not already have a 4 way connector on it, you'll need to start by adding that with the Tekonsha # 118524. I recommend using the Tekonsha over the other available harnesses because we've found that the converter boxes are a bit more reliable over time, so it's a great choice. Once you've added your 4 way you'll need to install a 7 way connector with the # ETBC7, which will allow you to tow a trailer with brakes.

To add a brake controller I recommend using the Tekonsha Primus IQ # TK90160, which will provide you with proportional braking, which means that the trailer brakes will be engage with the same strength and timing as your vehicle's brakes.

When it comes to weight distribution and sway control, if the trailer you're towing weighs more than half of the GVWR of your tow vehicle, it's likely that you're going to need some sort of weight distribution. The Jeep Liberty weighs around 4500-lbs, so any trailer over 2500-lbs I would recommend looking at some sort of weight distribution hitch. Something like the Fastway # FA92-00-0450 would be a good choice since it also provides sway control integrated into the system. This system is designed for tongue weights between 100 and 450-lbs, so you would need to confirm that the tongue weight of your trailer falls in the middle of that range (or close to the middle as possible). If you're having trouble determining the loaded tongue weight of your trailer, the etrailer # e99044 is a great little tool to have on hand to always make sure that you're not overloaded.

I've linked some installation and review videos of some of these parts that I recommend having a look at, as well. If you can determine the loaded tongue weight of your trailer is heavier than the weight distribution system mentioned, just let me know what you find and I can help you locate one that is more appropriate.