Flat Tow the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk Using Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking

Question:

I am looking at the Patriot system, my cigarette lighter is dead and I believe the steering wheel locks unless the engine is running Keyless ign. does the engine have to be running the entire time I am towing?

asked by: Stephen P

Expert Reply:

The Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking System - Proportional, # BLU37TR is a good option for your 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk. I recommend that you verify in your vehicle specific owners manual for flat tow however, if you have a 4x4 model with 2-speed power transfer unit then flat towing is not an issue and the steering wheel will not be locked when arranged for towing with the engine off. It is suggested that you ensure, through the setting menu, that the auto parking brake feature is turned off. You will need to ensure that the transfer case is in neutral, follow vehicle specific steps within the owners manual for this process. To address the non-operating power port/cigarette lighter , the 12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps, # RM-9332 can be used to supply power.

I suggest you use base plates # RM-521451-5, these fit both Trailhawk and Overland models (the # RM-521452-4 for other models such as the Limited, Latitude, and Latitude Plus trim levels). For a compatible tow bar I prefer the Falcon All-Terrain # RM-522, a non-binding tow bar that does not require you to be perfectly straight or on level ground to connect/disconnect from the tow vehicle. Adding the Tow Defender # RM-4000 and the protective screen # RM-4700 is also something to consider. This added protection can be very valuable considering you are at interstate speeds with you Jeep right on the back of your motorhome throwing up rocks and debris that can damage the paint and possibly crack the windshield.

The Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit, # RM-15267, or something similar is required by law for your vehicle indicator lights. I like this option as the diode kit allows you to use your Jeep Cherokee's tail lights and wiring system while preventing feedback from your RV. It lets you wire your vehicle to accept your RV's tail, brake, and turn signal lights for flat towing. Another option is the Custer Wireless LED Tow Bar Light, # LIW-LDTL-7B. This weatherproof LED tow bar light provides stop, tail, side marker, and turn functions for your towed Jeep Cherokee and its wireless design eliminates cords for hands-free control. The magnetic base provides secure grip and it has a rechargeable battery.

You will likely require a high low adapter so the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing; I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.