Hitch and Wiring Harness for 2001 Jeep Cherokee

Question:

Will this hitch fit any Jeep Cherokee 2001? Do you have to have wiring harness? Would it make sense to get a class 2 i wm pulling a 350 lb. Sailnoat.

asked by: Frank

Expert Reply:

We can get your 2001 Jeep Cherokee fully set up for towing your sailboat today and your future needs as well. You mentioned you were thinking about a Class-II hitch since you are only towing a 350 pound sailboat. I recommend that you purchase a Curt # 13084 Class-III hitch which has a 2” receiver and more towing capacity than your Jeep is rated for. In the future you may wish to tow heavier trailers or loads that will require the Class-III hitch. You might also consider accessories that connect to your hitch like bike or cargo racks. This hitch will have capacity for these and there are more accessories for 2” receivers than other sizes. I have included a link to this product page.

For towing small trailers you will only need a 4-pole wiring harness to operate the trailer lights. I recommend the Tekonsha # 118354 4-Pole Wiring Harness. This kit includes a taillight converter and installs easily with no wire cutting or splicing. I have included a link to that product page a link to the installation video

To connect your sailboat trailer to your hitch you will need a tow ball, ball mount, and a hitch pin with clip to hold it there. To recommend a ball size we will need to know what ball size your trailer coupler is set up for. I have included links to a FAQ pages for hitch sizes and couplers.

To recommend a ball mount we would need to know the rise or drop between the Jeep and the trailer. I have attached a link to an article that shows you how to measure this. It is very simple to do.

For your 2” hitch receiver you will need the Draw-Tite # PC3 hitch pin and clip. (link attached)