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Jeep Wrangler Towing

58 messages,  Last post on Jul 20, 2011 at 6:57 AM

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What is this discussion about? Jeep Wrangler, SUV

Messages Page 1 of 6

#1 of 58 Jeep Wrangler Towing by hil29

Dec 16, 2006 (6:54 am)

I have a 2000 Jeep Wrangler, manual 4wd and recently purchased a boat. Weight with trailer and boat is 3000lbs. I am trying to decide if I should get a hitch put on my jeep to tow the boat or not. I would only be towing it 10-15 miles from my house on all flat roads (I live on the coast of NC) NEVER on the hightway or on long trips. Does anyone have experience with towing a boat with a wrangler. Recommendations? How does it perform on the boat ramp (backing boat in and pulling it out)? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

#3 of 58 Re: Jeep Wrangler Towing [hil29] by mac24

Dec 16, 2006 (9:26 am)

I have a 2000 Jeep Wrangler, manual 4wd and recently purchased a boat. Weight with trailer and boat is 3000lbs. I am trying to decide if I should get a hitch put on my jeep to tow the boat or not. I would only be towing it 10-15 miles from my house on all flat roads (I live on the coast of NC) NEVER on the hightway or on long trips. Does anyone have experience with towing a boat with a wrangler. Recommendations? How does it perform on the boat ramp (backing boat in and pulling it out)? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
 
DC's recommendations for towing are based on wheelbase and lawyers rather than the capability of the engine, transmission, and brakes. However, while I can tell you what I do, don't take it as a recommendation.
 
I regularly tow a little over 3K lbs, mostly on the flat, and sometimes it's a boat. As long as I make full allowance for the fact that the trailer is there, especially in the wet or in traffic, I have no problems. Boat ramps are no problem either, though it's sensible to engage 4WD even if the ramp is dry.
 
However, one item that is essential IMHO, is a transmission cooler if you have an auto, though I know that doesn't apply to you.
 
As an alternative to a bolt-on hitch you might want to look at a replacement bumper with an integral hitch. Costs more but doesn't compromise ground clearance so much.
 
Finally, as with any vehicle, if you get salt water on it, get it washed down as soon as possible.

#6 of 58 Re: Jeep Wrangler Towing [hil29] by rowland08

Mar 04, 2007 (9:22 pm)

Replying to: hil29 (Dec 16, 2006 6:54 am)
I have 1999 Wrangler with tow hitch and pull around 3000lbs 20foot Center Console with it. I tow it around town but we don't use a boat ramp so i can't help you with that. But the jeep can handle the weight, doing it well depends on your driving. I don't think you'll have a problem but i'll also recommend engaging 4wd.

#7 of 58 Re: Jeep Wrangler Towing [rowland08] by mac24

Mar 04, 2007 (10:29 pm)

Replying to: rowland08 (Mar 04, 2007 9:22 pm)
........but i'll also recommend engaging 4wd.
 
That would be just on the boat ramp, right?

#8 of 58 Re: Jeep Wrangler Towing [mac24] by rowland08

Mar 05, 2007 (5:22 pm)

Replying to: mac24 (Mar 04, 2007 10:29 pm)
Yes on the boat ramp. If it is raining, i would use 4x4, but if you only travel across flat roads you shouldn't need to engage it just to pull the load.

#9 of 58 Need Trailer Hitch Help by beej3

Apr 26, 2007 (6:35 am)

i am a senior citizen Betty Jane) with a red
2000 Jeep Wrangler and loving it.
  
i hope you can point me in the right direction with my problem - - Please.
  
just buying a used sunfish sail boat(only 130 pounds) with a trailer -- but have to get a hitch on the Jeep. and i got a feeling i dont have to spend the "$300" to get a new hitch.
  
do you have any advice - - or a contact in NY or CT . i'm in western Connecticut.
  
Waiting to hear,
  
BJ

#10 of 58 Re: Need Trailer Hitch Help [beej3] by mac24

Apr 26, 2007 (7:26 am)

Replying to: beej3 (Apr 26, 2007 6:35 am)
No contacts, but it shouldn't be too hard to use Yellow Pages to shop around. $300 does sound a little high, but I don't know what the labor rates are up there. I know 'U-Haul' fit hitches at a resonable price around here.

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