Towing Tips - Jeep Wrangler Owner's Manual

Towing Requirements – Trailer Brakes
− Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake sys-
tem or vacuum system of your vehicle with
that of the trailer. This could cause inad-
equate braking and possible personal injury.
− When towing a trailer equipped with a hy-
draulic surge actuated brake system, an
electronic brake controller is not required.
− Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers
over 1,000 lbs (450 kg) and required for
trailers in excess of 1,653 lbs (750 kg).
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs
(450 kg) loaded, it should have its own brakes
and they should be of adequate capacity.
Failure to do this could lead to accelerated
brake lining wear, higher brake pedal effort,
and longer stopping distances.
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WARNING!
• Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehi-
cle's hydraulic brake lines. It can overload
your brake system and cause it to fail. You
might not have brakes when you need
them and could have an accident.
• Towing any trailer will increase your stop-
ping distance. When towing, you should
allow for additional space between your
vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
Failure to do so could result in an accident.

Towing Tips

Before setting out on a trip, practice turning,
stopping and backing the trailer in an area
away from heavy traffic.
Manual Transmission – If Equipped
If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer
towing, all starts must be in FIRST gear to avoid
excessive clutch slippage.
Automatic Transmission – If Equipped
The DRIVE range can be selected when tow-
ing. However, if frequent shifting occurs while in
this range, the "O/D OFF" mode should be
selected.
NOTE:
Using the "O/D OFF" mode while operating
the vehicle under heavy operating condi-
tions will improve performance and extend
transmission life by reducing excessive
shifting and heat build up. This action will
also provide better engine braking.
The automatic 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
transmission fluid change intervals.
NOTE:
Check the automatic transmission fluid level
before towing.
O/D Off – If Equipped
To reduce the potential for automatic transmis-
sion overheating, select "O/D OFF" when driv-
ing in hilly areas or shift the transmission to