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SUVs Jeep Wrangler Jeep Wrangler Towing
41 messages, Last post on Nov 19, 2009 at 9:40 AM
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Replying to: britt22 (Aug 18, 2007 11:58 am) |
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I have an '02 Wranger X and recently called a dealership to get a quote on getting a hitch installed --- about $550. I don't know how on God's green earth they can charge that, but obviously I'm not going that route. I will have an 18' foot boat this spring, about 2800 lbs total gross weight. I'm thinking about buying a $100-150 hitch from JCWhitney and installing it myself. Anybody have experience doing this? I don't have a garage, so I have limited space to do this. I'm also concerned about the electrical wiring, how difficult is that to set up? -Ryan
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Replying to: shannork (Feb 22, 2008 8:43 am) The Tj's short wheel base could EASILY have the tail wagging the dog if you're towing a 2800 lb boat. The longer wheelbase TJ (aka the LJ) Unlimiteds have a higher tow rating. As for the wiring, it is easy if you get a Jeep/Wrangler-specific harness setup from your favorite autopart store. -Paul
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Replying to: erickpl (Feb 25, 2008 6:44 am) I was wondering how troublesome the installation of the hitch is also? In addition, have there been significant clearance troubles with an aftermarket hitch installed instead of an integrated bumper hitch that should sway my decision one way or another?
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Replying to: shannork (Feb 25, 2008 2:09 pm)  1800 is still pushing it a bit, so be VERY wary if you attempt this. I personally opted for a hitch integrated into my aftermarket bumper. BUT it is not legally/officially tow rated - more for recovery. But I have towed a lengthy trailer full of wood flooring with no problems. I only have the 2.5L engine, so I know I won't be towing anything CLOSE to 1500 lbs. I don't know of any of the aftermarket bumper makers that will state a class rating for towing. If you DO decide to go this route, be sure to add the frame tie-in kits that are available. As for clearance issues, an aftermarket hidden hitch will take some clearance away, but if you don't offroad it or only go on things like fire trails, it should not pose a problem. If you wheel in rocks or on steep hills, it WILL pose a problem and will likely become a serious catching point when wheeling. I see it happen with a lot of our new wheelers that have a hitch installed. Installing a hitch is usually just a matter of bolting it up to the frame. You MIGHT have to loosen the gas tank mounts, but you shouldn't have to drop the tank. It should take about 30-45 minutes or so with basic hand tools. -Paul
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| I have a 98 Wrangler,,4.0 with automatic and want to tow a Chalet popup camper,,it is the Alpine model. Will be going up some Arizona mountains at times. Jeep specs. seem to be close to this weight. Any experience or info would be appreciated. | |
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Replying to: erickpl (Feb 26, 2008 5:58 am) We have an abundance of rivers/lakes here in Central VA, so I probably wouldn't be driving any more than 30 miles at a time with the boat. Now I just need to make sure I'm getting the boat before I go further with a hitch 
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Replying to: shannork (Feb 26, 2008 1:03 pm) -Paul
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Replying to: erickpl (Feb 26, 2008 1:26 pm) I don't think U Haul will rent a trailer if it's going to be towed by a converible. Thank you, trial lawyers... 
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Replying to: roadburner (Apr 17, 2008 8:38 am) Then again, Utility Trailers are Dangerous. |
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