Jeep Wrangler JK (2018 year). Instruction

Common Towing Definitions

The following trailer towing related definitions will assist
you in understanding the following information:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle.
This includes driver, passengers, cargo and tongue weight.
The total load must be limited so that you do not exceed
the GVWR. Refer to “Vehicle Loading/Vehicle Certification
Label” in “Starting And Operating” for further informa-
tion.

Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)

The GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of all
cargo, consumables and equipment (permanent or tempo-
rary) loaded in or on the trailer in its

⬙loaded and ready for

operation

⬙ condition.

The recommended way to measure GTW is to put your
fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of
the trailer must be supported by the scale.

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)

The GCWR is the total permissible weight of your vehicle
and trailer when weighed in combination.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear
axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles
evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or
rear GAWR. Refer to “Vehicle Loading/Vehicle Certifica-
tion Label” in “Starting And Operating” for further infor-
mation.

WARNING!

It is important that you do not exceed the maximum
front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition
can result if either rating is exceeded.

Tongue Weight (TW)

The tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the
hitch ball by the trailer. You must consider this as part of
the load on your vehicle.

Frontal Area

The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the
maximum width of the front of a trailer.

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Trailer Sway Control – If Equipped

The trailer sway control is a telescoping link that can be
installed between the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue.
It typically provides adjustable friction associated with the
telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailer sway-
ing motions while traveling.

Weight-Carrying Hitch

A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight,
just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some
other connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of
hitches are the most popular on the market today and they
are commonly used to tow small and medium sized
trailers.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing system works by applying leverage
through spring (load) bars. They are typically used for
heavier loads to distribute trailer tongue weight to the tow
vehicle’s front axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in
accordance with the manufacturer’s directions, it provides

for a more level ride, offering more consistent steering and
brake control thereby enhancing towing safety. The addi-
tion of a friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens
sway caused by traffic and crosswinds and contributes
positively to tow vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer sway
control and a weight distributing (load equalizing) hitch
are recommended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW) and
may be required depending on vehicle and trailer
configuration/loading to comply with Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR) requirements.

WARNING!

• An improperly adjusted Weight Distributing Hitch

system may reduce handling, stability, braking per-
formance, and could result in a collision.

• Weight Distributing Systems may not be compatible

with Surge Brake Couplers. Consult with your hitch
and trailer manufacturer or a reputable Recreational
Vehicle dealer for additional information.

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Trailer Hitch Classification

The following chart provides the industry standard for the
maximum trailer weight a given trailer hitch class can tow
and should be used to assist you in selecting the correct
trailer hitch for your intended towing condition.

Trailer Hitch Classification Definitions

Class

Max. Trailer Hitch Industry Standards

Class I - Light Duty

2,000 lbs (907 kg)

Class II - Medium Duty

3,500 lbs (1,587 kg)

Class III - Heavy Duty

5,000 lbs (2,267 kg)

Class IV - Extra Heavy Duty

10,000 lbs (4,535 kg)

Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight
(GTW) towable for your given drivetrain.
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.

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Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)

Engine/

Transmission

Axle

Model

GCWR

(Gross Com-

bined Wt.

Rating)

Frontal Area

Max. GTW

(Gross Trailer

Wt.)

Max. Trailer

Tongue Wt.

(See Note)

3.6L/Manual

3.21

Two–Door

Sport Model

(4WD)

6,900 lbs

(3 130 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

2,000 lbs

(907 kg)

200 lbs (91 kg)

3.6L/Manual

3.73

Two–Door

Sport Model

(4WD)

8,400 lbs

(3 810 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.21

Two–Door

Sport Model

(4WD)

6,900 lbs

(3 130 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

2,000 lbs

(907 kg)

200 lbs (91 kg)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.73

Two–Door

Sport Model

(4WD)

8,400 lbs

(3 810 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

3.6L/Manual

3.21

Two–Door

Sahara Model

(4WD)

7,000 lbs

(3 175 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

2,000 lbs

(907 kg)

200 lbs (91 kg)

3.6L/Manual

3.73

Two–Door

Sahara Model

(4WD)

8,500 lbs

(3 856 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

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Engine/

Transmission

Axle

Model

GCWR

(Gross Com-

bined Wt.

Rating)

Frontal Area

Max. GTW

(Gross Trailer

Wt.)

Max. Trailer

Tongue Wt.

(See Note)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.21

Two–Door

Sahara Model

(4WD)

7,000 lbs

(3 175 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

2,000 lbs

(907 kg)

200 lbs (91 kg)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.73

Two–Door

Sahara Model

(4WD)

8,500 lbs

(3 856 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

3.6L/Manual

4.10

Two–Door

Rubicon

Model (4WD)

8,600 lbs

(3 900 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.73

Two–Door

Rubicon

Model (4WD)

8,600 lbs

(3 900 kg)

25 sq ft

(2.32 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

3.6L/Manual

3.21

Four–Door

Sport Model

(4WD)

7,400 lbs

(3 357 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

2,000 lbs

(907 kg)

200 lbs (91 kg)

3.6L/Manual

3.73

Four–Door

Sport Model

(4WD)

8,900 lbs

(4 037 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

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311

Engine/

Transmission

Axle

Model

GCWR

(Gross Com-

bined Wt.

Rating)

Frontal Area

Max. GTW

(Gross Trailer

Wt.)

Max. Trailer

Tongue Wt.

(See Note)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.21

Four–Door

Sport Model

(4WD)

7,400 lbs

(3 357 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

2,000 lbs

(907 kg)

200 lbs (91 kg)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.73

Four–Door

Sport Model

(4WD)

8,900 lbs

(4 037 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

3.6L/Manual

3.21

Four–Door

Sahara Model

(4WD)

7,500 lbs

(3 402 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

2,000 lbs

(907 kg)

200 lbs (91 kg)

3.6L/Manual

3.73

Four–Door

Sahara Model

(4WD)

9,000 lbs

(4 082 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.21

Four–Door

Sahara Model

(4WD)

7,500 lbs

(3 402 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

2,000 lbs

(907 kg)

200 lbs (91 kg)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.73

Four–Door

Sahara Model

(4WD)

9,000 lbs

(4 082 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

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STARTING AND OPERATING

Engine/

Transmission

Axle

Model

GCWR

(Gross Com-

bined Wt.

Rating)

Frontal Area

Max. GTW

(Gross Trailer

Wt.)

Max. Trailer

Tongue Wt.

(See Note)

3.6L/Manual

4.10

Four–Door

Rubicon

Model (4WD)

9,200 lbs

(4 173 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

3.6L/

Automatic

3.73

Four–Door

Rubicon

Model (4WD)

9,200 lbs

(4 173 kg)

32 sq ft

(2.97 sq m)

3,500 lbs

(1 587 kg)

350 lbs

(158 kg)

Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds.

NOTE:

The trailer tongue weight must be considered as

part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo (ie. the
GVWR), and the GVWR should never exceed the weight
referenced on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
Refer to “Tire Safety Information” in “Servicing And
Maintenance” for further information.

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313

Trailer And Tongue Weight

Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on
your bumper or trailer hitch.

Consider the following items when computing the weight
on the rear axle of the vehicle:
• The tongue weight of the trailer.
• The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put

in or on your vehicle.

• The weight of the driver and all passengers.

NOTE:

Remember that everything put into or on the

trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional
factory-installed options or dealer-installed options must
be considered as part of the total load on your vehicle.
Refer to the “Tire And Loading Information” placard for
the maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo for
your vehicle.

Towing Requirements — Tires
• Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe

and satisfactory operation of your vehicle. Refer to
“Tires – General Information” in “Servicing And Main-
tenance” for proper tire inflation procedures.

• Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation pressures

before trailer usage.

• Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage before

towing a trailer. Refer to “Tires – General Information”
in “Servicing And Maintenance” for proper inspection
procedure.

• When replacing tires, refer to “Tires – General Informa-

tion” in “Servicing And Maintenance” for proper tire
replacement procedures. Replacing tires with a higher
load carrying capacity will not increase the vehicle’s
GVWR and GAWR limits.

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Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes
• Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system or

vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer.
This could cause inadequate braking and possible per-
sonal injury.

• An electronically actuated trailer brake controller is

required when towing a trailer with electronically actu-
ated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with a
hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic
brake controller is not required.

• Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over

1,000 lbs (453 kg) and required for trailers in excess of
2,000 lbs (907 kg).

WARNING!

• Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle’s hy-

draulic brake lines. It can overload your brake sys-
tem and cause it to fail. You might not have brakes
when you need them and could have a collision.

• Towing any trailer will increase your stopping dis-

tance. 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 a collision.

CAUTION!

If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (453 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.

Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And Wiring

Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,
stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are required for
motoring safety.

The Trailer Tow Package will include a four–pin wiring
harness. Use a factory-approved trailer harness and con-
nector.

NOTE:

Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicles wiring

harness.

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The electrical connections are all complete to the vehicle
but you must mate the harness to a trailer connector. Refer
to the following illustration.

Towing Tips

Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping and
backing the trailer in an area away from heavy traffic.

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

Select the DRIVE range when towing. The transmission
controls include a drive strategy to avoid frequent shifting
when towing. However, if frequent shifting does occur
while in DRIVE, you can use the AutoStick shift control to
manually select a lower gear.

NOTE:

Using a lower gear while operating the vehicle

under heavy loading conditions will improve performance
and extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting
and heat buildup. This action will also provide better
engine braking.

If you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than 45 minutes
of continuous operation, then change the transmission
fluid and filter as specified for police, taxi, fleet, or frequent
trailer towing. Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the
proper maintenance intervals.

NOTE:

Check the automatic transmission fluid level before

towing.

Four-Pin Connector

1 — Female Pins

4 — Park

2 — Male Pin

5 — Left Stop/Turn

3 — Ground

6 — Right Stop/Turn

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AutoStick — If Equipped
• When using the AutoStick shift control, select the high-

est gear that allows for adequate performance and
avoids frequent downshifts. For example, choose “4” if
the desired speed can be maintained. Choose “3” or “2”
if needed to maintain the desired speed.

• To prevent excess heat generation, avoid continuous

driving at high RPM. Reduce vehicle speed as necessary
to avoid extended driving at high RPM. Return to a
higher gear or vehicle speed when grade and road
conditions allow.

Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped
• Do not use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
• When using the speed control, if you experience 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 overheat-
ing, take the following actions:

City Driving

When stopped for short periods of time, shift the transmis-
sion into NEUTRAL and increase engine idle speed.

Highway Driving

Reduce speed.

Air Conditioning

Turn off temporarily.

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RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.)
Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle

Towing Condition

Wheels OFF the Ground

Four-Wheel Drive Models

Flat Tow

NONE

See Instructions

• Automatic transmission in PARK.

• Manual transmission in gear (NOT

in NEUTRAL [N]).

• Transfer case in NEUTRAL (N).

• Tow in forward direction.

Dolly Tow

Front

NOT ALLOWED

Rear

NOT ALLOWED

On Trailer

ALL

NOTE:

• When towing your vehicle, always follow applicable state and provincial laws. Contact state and provincial High-

way Safety offices for additional details.

• For RHD models, refer to the Postal Supplement for Recreational Towing instructions.

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Recreational Towing — Four-Wheel Drive Models

NOTE:

The transfer case must be shifted into NEUTRAL

(N), automatic transmission must be in PARK, and manual
transmission must be in gear (NOT in NEUTRAL) for
recreational towing.

CAUTION!

• DO NOT dolly tow any 4WD vehicle. Towing with

only one set of wheels on the ground (front or rear)
will cause severe transmission and/or transfer case
damage. Tow with all four wheels either ON the
ground, or OFF the ground (using a vehicle trailer).

• Tow only in the forward direction. Towing this

vehicle backwards can cause severe damage to the
transfer case.

• Automatic transmissions must be placed in PARK

for recreational towing.

• Manual transmissions must be placed in gear (not in

Neutral) for recreational towing.

• Before recreational towing, perform the procedure

outlined under “Shifting Into NEUTRAL (N)” to be
certain that the transfer case is fully in NEUTRAL
(N). Otherwise, internal damage will result.

(Continued)

CAUTION! (Continued)

• Towing this vehicle in violation of the above require-

ments can cause severe transmission and/or transfer
case damage. Damage from improper towing is not
covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

• Do not use a bumper-mounted clamp-on tow bar on

your vehicle. The bumper face bar will be damaged.

Shifting Into NEUTRAL (N)

Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for
recreational towing.

WARNING!

You or others could be injured or killed if you leave the
vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the NEU-
TRAL (N) position without first fully engaging the park-
ing brake. The transfer case NEUTRAL (N) position
disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from the
powertrain, and will allow the vehicle to roll, even if the
automatic transmission is in PARK (or manual transmis-
sion is in gear). The parking brake should always be
applied when the driver is not in the vehicle.

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CAUTION!

It is necessary to follow these steps to be certain that
the transfer case is fully in NEUTRAL (N) before
recreational towing to prevent damage to internal
parts.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on level ground.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal.

3. Shift the automatic transmission into NEUTRAL or

depress the clutch pedal on a manual transmission.

4. Turn the engine OFF.

5. Shift the transfer case lever into NEUTRAL (N).

6. Start the engine.

7. Shift the transmission into REVERSE.

8. Release the brake pedal (and clutch pedal on manual

transmissions) for five seconds and ensure that there is
no vehicle movement.

9. Repeat steps seven and eight with automatic transmis-

sion in DRIVE or manual transmission in first gear.

10. Turn the engine OFF.

11. Firmly apply the parking brake.

12. Shift the transmission into PARK or place manual

transmission in gear (NOT in NEUTRAL).

CAUTION!

Damage to the transmission may occur if the transmis-
sion is shifted into PARK with the transfer case in
NEUTRAL (N) and the engine running. With the
transfer case in NEUTRAL (N) ensure that the engine
is OFF before shifting the transmission into PARK.

13. Attach the vehicle to the tow vehicle using a suitable

tow bar.

14. Release the parking brake.

Shifting Out of NEUTRAL (N)

Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for
normal usage.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, leaving it con-

nected to the tow vehicle.

2. Firmly apply the parking brake.

3. Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position, but do not

start the engine.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

4. Press and hold the brake pedal.

5. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.

6. Shift the transfer case lever to the desired position.

NOTE:

When shifting the transfer case out of NEUTRAL

(N), the engine should remain OFF to avoid gear clash.

7. Shift the automatic transmission into PARK, or place

manual transmission in NEUTRAL.

8. Release the brake pedal.

9. Disconnect vehicle from the tow vehicle.

10. Start the engine.

11. Press and hold the brake pedal.

12. Release the parking brake.

13. Shift the transmission into gear, release the brake pedal

(and clutch pedal on manual transmissions), and check
that the vehicle operates normally.

DRIVING TIPS

On-Road Driving Tips

Utility vehicles have higher ground clearance and a nar-
rower track to make them capable of performing in a wide
variety of off-road applications. Specific design character-
istics give them a higher center of gravity than conven-
tional passenger cars.

An advantage of the higher ground clearance is a better
view of the road, allowing you to anticipate problems.
They are not designed for cornering at the same speeds as
conventional passenger cars any more than low-slung
sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily in off-
road conditions. Avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers.
As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this
vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or vehicle
rollover.

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321

Off-Road Driving Tips

Side Step Removal — If Equipped

NOTE:

Prior to off-road usage, the side steps should be

removed to prevent damage if so equipped.

1. Remove the two nuts from the bodyside.

2. Remove one bolt from the underside of the vehicle.

3. Remove the side step assembly.

The Basics Of Off-Road Driving

You will encounter many types of terrain driving off-road.
You should be familiar with the terrain and area before
proceeding. There are many types of surface conditions:
hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow
and ice. Every surface has a different effect on your
vehicle’s steering, handling and traction. Controlling your
vehicle is one of the keys to successful off-road driving, so
always keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and maintain
a good driving posture. Avoid sudden accelerations, turns

Bodyside Nut

Underside Bolt

322

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Jeep Wrangler JK (2018 year). Instruction - part 20