Towing Tips - Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 Owner's Manual

JOBNAME: CHRY OM INTL (Conten PAGE: 253 SESS: 2 OUTPUT: Fri Jun 4 10:52:37 2010 SUM: 3C523909
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Towing Tips

Before setting out on a trip, practice turning,
stopping and backing the trailer in an area
away from heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission
The DRIVE range can be selected when tow-
ing. However, if frequent shifting occurs while in
this range, the TOW/HAUL mode (if equipped),
or a lower gear range, should be selected.
NOTE:
Using the TOW/HAUL mode (if equipped) or
selecting a lower gear range (using the Elec-
tronic Range Select (ERS) feature) while
operating the vehicle under heavy operating
conditions, will improve performance and
extend transmission life by reducing exces-
sive shifting and heat buildup. This action
will also provide better engine braking.
The transmission fluid and filter should be
changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for
more than 45 minutes of continuous operation.
Refer to "Maintenance Schedule" for the proper
maintenance intervals.
NOTE:
Check the transmission fluid level before
towing (5.7L engine).
To help maintain a comfortable operating
temperature for your transmission, it is rec-
ommended that when towing a maximum
loaded trailer up steep grades with switch
backs, you should use the ERS function on
the transmission shifter to lock your vehicle
into first gear (5.7L Models Only).
Electronic Speed Control – If Equipped
− Do not use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
− When using the speed control, if you expe-
rience speed drops greater than 10 mph
(16 km/h), disengage until you can get back
to cruising speed.
− Use speed control in flat terrain and with light
loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission
overheating, take the following actions:
− City Driving
When stopped for short periods of time, shift
the transmission into NEUTRAL and increase
engine idle speed.
− Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
− Air Conditioning
Turn off temporarily.
Trailer Hitch Attaching Points
Your vehicle will require extra equipment to tow
a trailer safely and efficiently. The trailer tow
hitch must be attached to your vehicle using
the provided attaching points on the vehicle's
frame. Refer to the following chart to determine
the accurate attaching points. Other equip-
ment, such as trailer sway controls and braking
equipment, trailer equalizing (leveling) equip-
ment and low profile mirrors, may also be
required or strongly recommended.
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