Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1990 Jeep Wrangler Behind a 2008 Jeep Commander

Question:

I have a Jeep 2008 Commander 5.7 hemi 2 wheel drive - would like to tow a 1990 wrangler 3k LBS - about 600 miles from florida to the smoky mountains so there will be a lot of elevation changes - roads are wide into town bryson city can u help me the right tow bar if one can be used.

asked by: Jim R

Expert Reply:

The two things you will want to do first before towing are to make sure the 2008 Jeep Commander has the capacity to tow 3,000 pounds and consult the Jeep Wrangler owners manual for the proper procedure for towing.

For the Wrangler, you will need several parts to flat tow it. First, you will need base plates. There are 2 options depending on what bumper you have. For base plates to fit, you will need to have the U-channel bumper. If you have a different type of bumper it probably would be best to trailer tow the Wrangler. If the bumper is compatible go with base plates # 1409-3.

For a compatible tow bar, there are several options. If you have a 2 inch trailer hitch receiver on your Commander then I recommend going with the Falcon 2, # RM-520, which is the most popular Roadmaster tow bar and would work best for elevation changes. I have included a link to the instructions and a video review for you. If you have to use a coupler style tow bar because you do not have a 2 inch hitch then I recommend the Stowmaster, # RM-501. Instructions and video linked.

Next you will need safety cables. For either tow bar I recommend coiled cables # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting on the Jeep the easiest solution that requires no cutting and splicing or modification to the jeep is a magnetic kit like # RM-2120. For either of these you will need to have a 4-Way trailer connector on the Commander, # 118408, if needed. If the Commander has a 7-Way but not a 4-Way then you can use adapter # PK12716.

And last, 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 proportional system which applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

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