Items Needed To Flat Tow a 2017 Jeep Cherokee

Question:

I have a 2017 Jeep Cherokee that I will be towing behind my class A What equipment do you recommend? I am interested in the pros and cons between the DEMCO plug and stay system vs the systems like a Patriot III that require placing a unit in the cab and attaching to the brake pedal? I do not foresee ever changing my towed vehicle.

asked by: James D

Expert Reply:

The Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System, # SM99251 is confirmed to fit the 2017 Jeep Cherokee and we even have an installation video available, I have linked to it below. The Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking System, # BLU37TR is also a great system for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee, I prefer the Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play. Each is a proportional braking system and will serve you well, their performance and customer feedback show them to be dependable and easy to use. The biggest difference is that the Blue Ox is a portable unit that can be moved from one vehicle to another, those that have more than one vehicle they may choose to tow like this option. Additionally this means that if you trade in your daily driver every few years you do not need to buy a new braking system too.

The Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System, # SM99251 is a system that never has to be removed, replaced, or reset. It is a one-time setup with no need to remove or to activate each time you connect to the motorhome. The operating unit and actuating cylinder stay hidden so everything is out of your way when driving and the system automatically functions when towed vehicle is hitched to RV. Because you are setting your Jeep up for towing with no intentions of changing out, I suggest you go with this unit.

My suggestion for a complete flat tow package for your 2017 Jeep Cherokee is:

- Base Plates, Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit with removable arms, # DM9519307
- Tow Bar, Demco Commander II Non-Binding Tow Bar, # DM9511012 (this has needed safety cables with it)
- Wiring, Demco Tow Bar Combo Kit with Diode System, # DM9523057
- Braking System, Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play DUO, # SM99251
- Stop Light Switch, Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit, # RM-751471
- Charge Line Kit, Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles, # RM-156-25

You may or may not need a high/low adapter. When setting up vehicle to be flat towed you want the tow bar to be set at 3" +/- of level. I have attached a help article below that explains and walks you through the set-up.

Please note the linked product review and installation videos along with the Help Articles that I hope you find valuable.