How To: Flat Tow Your Jeep Wrangler JL, JLU & 4xe Behind Your RV or Camper
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- Опубліковано 31 тра 2024
- Looking to flat tow your wrangler? Here is a great resource to do just that. I have also included links to the products which I have used in this setup. Please see my other videos with regards to actual install of those items.
Maximus-3 JL Tow Loops: maximus-3.com/jtgladiator-/jl...#/
Maximus-3 BlueOx Adaptor Lugs: maximus-3.com/home/maximus-3-...
Cooltech Wire Harness: www.cooltechllc.com/2018-jeep...
RVI3 Brake System: rvibrake.com/JEEPSONTHERUN
BlueOx Tow Bar: www.blueox.com/recreational-c...
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This is the best instruction set for flat towing a JLU on the internet. Jeeps manual is confusing, quadratic tried a write up and failed, this is it! Thanks for making this video
Thanks for the kind words. We do have an updated one landing here soon, but small changes. I appreciate your comments - Consider a subscribe for more.
I have not read all comments, but having bought a 2021 Wrangler 4xe the Jeep manual says this: "CAUTION: Damage to the transmission may occur if the transmission is shifted into PARK with the transfer case in (N) Neutral and the engine running. With the transfer case in (N) Neutral ensure that the engine is OFF before shifting the transmission into PARK." I don't know much about car mechanics but I would turn off the engine before shifting the transmission to Park.
Finally! a video on flat towing a Jeep that makes perfect sense. Thank you!
Thank you!
@@JeepsOnTheRun you’re welcome. We’re in AB. Stop for a visit if you’re ever heading up to Canada or into Alaska.
@@Makeitblue127 It's on my bucket list! :)
Be sure to subscribe for more RV / Jeep goodies! :)
Great video with excellent instruction. Thank you.
Thanks! Check out our sister channel for other rv info too! Midwest Adventure Life
Great video!! really helped me the 1st time using the RVi 3 system.
Thanks for watching - Let us know if you have any questions. Safe travels!
That looks simple enough. Thanks for sharing.
This is so helpful. I have a 4xe and a Minnie Winnie. I'm just about to setup the towing. Thanks a lot!
Hey. Love the video. I have a 2024 Rubicon. There's a 20 amp fuse under the hood that you can move over one position in order make your 12v always active. 😀
That works for the rear outlet I believe.
Great video. Thanks for putting this together. High five to Charlie for being awesome!
Thanks for the comment! You put a big smile on Charlie's face too! 😃
Thanks for putting this together!!! Very detailed & exceptionally informative ...👍👍👍
Thanks for commenting! Happy Camping
Very well done video that clearly explains how to set up and use the flat-towing system. Thanks.
Mot welcome! Be sure to subscribe, we've got some updated videos launching next week on this topic.
I love it when you flat tow a Jeep on back of the rv motor home
awesome video. thanks
Thank you great video! First one I have seen with rvi in actions.
Thank you!
Thanks, very illustrative and práctical
Thank you for the videos. We just got a class A motorhome and ‘21 Wrangler High Altitude, so they helped me a lot! I went with the Blue Ox tow bar, Maximus-3 tow hooks and adapters for towing. For the braking, I went with the full RVI system, RVI brake 3, tire patrol, and battery charger. RVI hit a home run with all of those system on a single tablet.
The Maximus-3 tow hooks is recommended to be used with MAXIMUS-3 TOWING TIE-ROD. Is that neccessary for a 2 doors ?
Nice video Mike, keep up the good work! Mark
Thank you!
Excellent
Excellent job. I subscribed!
Thank you!
Great Video Thank You
Thank you!
Great video
Thanks!
Yes
Thank you
Most welcome!
Class c tow bar
Thanks in advance for your reply sir.
Hope it was helpful - I'd be gad to help any way I can
😊see that’s why I love RVs
Nothing quite like a home that you can expect raw sewage in at some point.
GREAT video. I have a 4xe and bought the same setup because of your video so thank you very much. How many psi do you select?
Good information. The only thing that I do differently, is to back the Jeep up, after connecting it to RV, to fully extend, and lock, the tow bar arms. Then set set up the gears and brakes. (You DID mention this. It prevents the Jeep from rolling into the tow bar.)
Thanks for this video. It was very helpful and informative. The only question I have is how much did this set up cost? Hope that's not too personal? Thank you
We did not disconnect for several days and used the Jeep 4xe battery for power. The Jeep ended up in the shop for 6 days and caused a lot of lost rv park fees. I now use a power generator that I place on the drivers seat to power the brake controller and it works great. Question: have you experienced any death wobble in the front end when driving the Jeep after towing?
It's good to have someone who has the Jeep 4XE. That will make life simpler. Also, I'd like to know more about the Jeep/RV switch I think was installed on the passanger side?
Absolutely ! Glad to help.
Try this video out: ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.html
Hi, it’s the one the arms attached on the Jeep!
The one on the Jeep
maximus-3.com/jtgladiator-/jl-jt-towing-package-with-blue-ox-adapters-gen2?search_query=tow&results=22
These?
i need a tour of that RV!
We can do that! It's not special, but its ours :)
@@JeepsOnTheRun i was looking to purchase a Rv but its almost impossible to find one or get one from a manufacturer due to chip shortage, ive ordered a 4xe about 2 months ago and im still in D STAGE,
If you dont have a Toad Brake, just leave a kid in the drivers seat and tell them to push the brake with the Motorhome brakes light up.
hahah That's a #ProTip
which model are you using for blue ox?
Get the Stay -In-Play breaking system AND YOU NEVER HAVE TO MESS WITH PUTTING IN AND OUT THE BREAKING SYSTEM
This system works great for me - I don't keep a vehicle long enough
You said 1” pins for the jeep, the only Maximus tow loops I have found are 7/8”. Did you have to drill yours out?
nice video, I just got first wrangler , had a grand Cherokee before. I got the 392 wrangler ! anyway looking for a base plate to tow it. Just got back. from a 7000 mile road trip to the east coast and back to San Diego. And all the wrangler where using the blue Ox type base plates.Your base plate is really clean. What brand is it? For brakes I use Air force one from airbrakes from my coach. That is really easy also to use, just plug in to the front bumper. i learn a lot watching your video. Like put emergence brakes on first before loosen the bars. Thank you so much!
Thanks for the comments. In my other RV video, I got more in depth about the components and the install.
ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.html
Great video. Thanks. One question…do you think a protective screen for the Jeep is necessary? Thanks again!
Honestly, I don't have one. While the Jeep sometimes is covered in exhaust soot from thr rv, I have not noticed any rock chips or the like. I do have a skirt on the rv that hangs down across the back so that may help.
Thanks for the great info's , would it be possible to get info on your tail light wiring set up ( with clever switch ). Wiring part # and instructions. Thanks a lot
Stephen.
Thanks - here is more info on the harness
ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.html
Here is a link for the item:
www.cooltechllc.com/2018-jeep-wrangler-jl/107-jl-tow-harness-kit.html
Have you ever had any issues with the front end alignment on the jeep being negatively impacted by being flat towed? Also wondering if the brake inside the Jeep is required?? I would think as light as the jeep is the motorhome brakes would be substantial enough to stop the weight of jeep without auxiliary braking. Otherwise a great video…very informative and helpful for a newbie like myself.
I've never had a single issue with alignment or any other maintenance beyond normal. I've towed over 30k miles between a few Jeeps.
Yes, the rv has enough power to stop the Jeep in it's on. It's however law in about 45 states to have brake system in place. Keep in mind on the event of a detachment, the brake system will then stop the Jeep as well.
It's law, and piece of mind for me.
And the vacation is over
What model number is the tow plate and matching Blue Ox tow bar? .. Also, as far as the braking monitor in the cockpit, is that an app that is coming bluetooth from the braking unit in the Jeep? .. As for the trickle charger for your battery and the transfer switch .. Is that a kit or did you rig that up? ... Sorry for all the questions. We're new and we just bought a 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited X .. I need to set it up for towing. I'm fairly good with tools and such and I have access to a lift. Or I may seek out a shop with experience .. Not sure yet. Thank you for this video. Very informative and simple enough so that I can even follow it .. lol
I Believe most of your questions will be answered in these 2 videos - also check the links under the videos as well
1.). ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.html
2.) ua-cam.com/video/s4q-ntKA0rE/v-deo.html
The charger is just an add-on from RVI (see in video).
The transfer switch is a cooltech part (also see video above) You have a JK - so that transfer switch really isn't needed, as there are other options for the JK that were not there for the JL
See this link for the JK. Keep in mind there is a relay that you'll also want to add so your Jeep turn signals work while the brake lights are on (while under tow)
Harness: www.amazon.com/CURT-58903-Towed-Vehicle-Harness-Wrangler/dp/B074RNKLQD
Relay kit:
www.etrailer.com/Tow-Bar-Braking-Systems/Roadmaster/RM-88400.html?feed=npn&Google%20%7C%20Shop%20-%20Low%20Volume%20-%201000&adgroupid=140227598607&campaignid=10274415741&creative=597205809825&device=c&devicemodel=&feeditemid=&keyword=&loc_interest_ms=&loc_physical_ms=9021456&matchtype=&network=g&placement=&position=&gclid=CjwKCAjwsfuYBhAZEiwA5a6CDCibA1m_jnqs8R6NbTU0vfNxXIXT8FTwB8XGuDAO_FAc0LBH3TEZVhoCyngQAvD_BwE
The brake monitor is all part of that RV brake system, it comes as one kit.
Hopefully I answered your questions - please feel free to subscribe for more! :)
Mike
Very thorough explanation, thank you! I’ll be flat towing our Wrangler for the first time later this week. Is your system set for vacuum or active brake?
I have it set for active brake. It's been working great! Good luck, and here to help if needed.
Thank you again! Just came home from our trip. Followed your video and recommendations. Flat towing the Jeep worked like a charm!
@@dmitry103 Most welcome! So glad you had a safe trip and it all worked well! Thank's for the update too!!
I like my old junk, tow bar brackets directly on the solid steel bumper. Tow chain as saftey chain. Magnetic tow lights, and no brakes on the jeep. Old school but its cheap so i like it. A ev though is heavy, my jeep weights 2707 so i could see how with a newer jeep you want brakes. Plus your jeep costs way more than my old junk
Understood. Keep in mind it's the law in almost every state.
Another amazing video thank you so much for that….
few questions If I may…
1. what happens with the power steering when you flat tow a JL?
2. if you have the ignition on what happens to the fuel pump another electronics within the JL Jeep?
3. Instead of having that box brake system between the left front seat and the brake pedal do you know if there is another option which is built in under the hood connected to the JL original breaking system?
thank you so much again look forward to hear from you
1.) Nothing really, the wheels just move as needed - not under power steering.
2.) NO need to leave the ignition on. Lock up the jeep and bring the keys with ya.
3.) Nothing wrong with that option. I just like the one I have better, as it's less invasive. Both of them do the same thing at the end of the day, and that is to move the brake pedal when the Rv is braking.
I hope this helps.
@@JeepsOnTheRun thanks man...
@@JeepsOnTheRun How is the steering wheel not locked? You must have it in some sort of "first position" like you would if it accepted an actual key like the old days? I don't fully understand why or how the wheels steer... is it really as simple as, they just follow the motorhome due to some sort of witchcraft science of the natural order of things?
@@bakeblaker01 there's no lock on the JL Jeep steering wheel. So yep, it's that simple.
Imagine pulling a shopping cart. Front wheels naturally will turn as you pull it. Same idea.
@@JeepsOnTheRun awesome. Thanks
lol he said ur other left that was to funny 😆
:)
Thx for the video.
You sais you have one for the installation of the wiring harness.
Can you share the link please ?
Thx 🙂
ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.htmlsi=m-2GaR4nlPOPhGj_
Here you are. Thanks for watching!
I never put the power cord on the top of the tow bar. I always hand push the Jeep back to lock it in. Just the way I do it not saying I am right.
For sure more than one right way :) thanks for watching.
Have you had problems with the Jeep locking the breaks up. I read in forms that the 4Xe has an active breaking system this is alway on.
I read the same thing. No issues at all.
Set the rvi system for active braking not vaccum. I set the psi to 10. Just did 3k miles with zero issues. Towed exactly like my 18 JL
Excellent video. I'm considering selling my fifth wheel & 3/4 ton and going to a motorhome/jeep setup.
Two questions sir if I can ask... did you consider either an open or closed car hauler trailer? I know that can add quite an additional expense and second, After buying the newMotor Home and the new jeep, what additional expense am I looking at roughly, for the whole flat tow setup if I can ask
For me I didn't go with the trailer for a few reasons.
It's another item to register, maintain etc.
When you get to camp, often times there's no room for a trailer.
I can hitch-up and be on my way much shorter time than I can strap it to a trailer.
It tows better than on a trailer.
I'd say depending on install, your about $2-4k in parts and items needed to flat tow. I did all the work myself, so I was on the low end of the costs.
Hopefully it's not a repeat question. How does your steering wheel stay unlocked when the key is off during tow.
The JL has no steering lock.
Hi , you mentioned the key is on off , so my question is , how the tires steer if column is lock?
There is no Key in the JL. It's a push button. Having said that the JK and JL both do not have any type of column lock
So how if the key out it’s still able to turn
I see a bunch of conflicting information when it comes to the steering wheel lock on the Wrangler Sahara's. In your video, you make no mention of unlocking the steering wheel, yet on several forum's it says people have to. Please clarify for me. : ) Thanks!
The Jeep JL (2018.5 - to current) doesn’t have any type of steering wheel lock. I am 99% sure the JK wranglers also do not lock.
When you flat tow 4xe, will the P2 motor spin? If so, the motor back emf may damage the HV components at high speed.
The p2 motor will not spin. The drive train is disconnected at the transfer case. Due to the location of the motors, none of them spin when the Jeep is being pulled.
Great video. Unless I might have missed this..... if the Jeep ignition key is off for towing, doesn't the steering wheel on the Jeep remain in the locked position?
The JL has no "Key" per say, it's push button start and also has no wheel lock. So no action need's to be made.
Even the JK (With a key) doesn’t have a steering wheel lock.
@@JeepsOnTheRun thank you!!
Most welcome!
Do you have a Jeep you plan to tow?@@crenaissanceman
@@JeepsOnTheRun not yet. We have a 30’ class C / V10 Ford gas. Just starting to look for a tow Jeep. Target is 2020 or newer Sahara wrangler 4 dr. Manual.
Awesome! The JL makes a great Jeep. Finding the manual trans gets harder and harder these days :( @@crenaissanceman
excellent thanks
Most welcome! Safe Travels!
Be sure to see the other videos with some updates on Flat Towing.
Just curious, why did you choose the hybrid? Do you see that as more compatible with RVing? Can you charge at a lot of parks or through the RV when hooked to shore power?
I have been a Jeep owner since the 90's and love wranglers. I also love new tech. My wife drives 60 miles a day and this made sense for us. We traded in a 2018 JL. With the market the way it is now we actually made $ on my 2018 JL, and bought the 4xe for invoice. Between that and the tax rebate we put $ in the bank and enjoyed a new vehicle with much better fuel economy.
You can charge it level 2 at any 50 amp campsite too!!
Here's my video on the 4xe which we love! ua-cam.com/video/jvtL90mduG4/v-deo.html
@@JeepsOnTheRun Makes sense. I checked and unfortunately, the 4xe weighs 5,100 lbs. Our Airstream Atlas has a tow max of 5,000 lbs, so we are stuck with "old tech"!!! Great videos.
@@wklemp1 Makes sense. Thanks for watching!
How did you mount the breakaway and 6 pin connector under the bumper? There’s a couple inch gap between the outer plastic and inner metal skid plate.
I ended up cutting tabs in the metal skip plate, bending them back, and bolting them into the tabs.
So sorry for late reply. I cut away the inner bumper metal plate. The plug is mounted to the outer plastic one.
Here's a detailed video: ua-cam.com/video/s4q-ntKA0rE/v-deo.html
Where did you get the Jeep wired to work with the RV lights?
I did them myself. Here is a video that might help.
ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.html
I noticed you are not using the tie rod, Maximus 3 told me it's a must with those tow hooks. Have you not had any issues not using the tie rod?
It sounds like most of the issues are showing up. on those who have had poorly adjusted breaks or even no braking system at all in the Jeep.
I purchased these before the tireod became required. I'll be adding it, with a video.
@@JeepsOnTheRun Thanks for the reply! Do you think I am fine not using the tie rod? I have the exact same set up as you do in your video and the same braking system.
@@scotbitters8156 all I can say is that I have put 10k plus miles on mine without issues.
Having said that, I'll be adding the part for piece of mind.
how come the steering wheel turns if you turn off the jeep? Is there a tow mode for jeep that we need to set? or you have never turned the jeep off?
There is no steering wheel lock, so it will move regardless of the ignition is on.
what brand baseplate you used on the wrangler and do you have the installation video？thank you！
No baseplate. ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.html
So how do you get the steering wheel to turn with the key removed ?? Doesn't it lock in place ?
No key on the JL. No wheel lock.
What about the steering wheel lock? Does the key stay in the on position? Or do Wranglers even have steering wheel locks?
The JK and JL Jeep Wranglers do not have steering wheel locks
Thanks for the great video… hooked up our JK and worked wonderfully. We just upgraded Jeep to a JL and see the Maximus JL tow loop link is bad. Do you have a new link to share?
Good question! Let me check
maximus-3.com/jtgladiator-/jl-jt-towing-package-with-blue-ox-adapters?search_query=tow&results=11&fbclid=IwAR2_-tl3F6rYL6sp_K-nM7IXLniWW_KZxXuYeGOgO-c7nr48tQ6kKjExlOs#/
Thanks for the updated link.
@@williamvarnell most welcome!
Where did you buy the bracket for the electric for the front of the vehicle
Do you mean the plug? That is just a standard RV style plug that I mounted into the plastic front airdam
We had a mechanic wire the toad. Is there supposed to be a toggle switch for tow mode/jeep mode or is that something you had custom installed?
There are a few different ways this can be installed. So depending on the year / model of your vehicle and what kit was used to wire it up - it simply might not have a switch.
Thanks. I thought we might be missing something important. It’s a 2023 4xe with a Curt wiring harness. Wanted to make sure the mechanic didn’t cut any corners!
@@deronbennett7153 You should be all set. At the time when I bought my 1st JL in 2018 the kit you see installed in my wrangler was the only option available. When I sold the 18 for my 4xe we just transferred over the same kit. Not there are other options - sounds like you are all set!
Be sure to subscribe for more content - also check out our RV / Adventure channel as well!
www.youtube.com/@midwestadventurelife
What about the steering of the tow vehicle? How does it steer along with the RV and not lock up?
Yes. The Jeep dosent have a wheel lock if you watch at about 12:30 on you'll see it in action.
I'm curious now that you've been using this setup for 6 months, anything you would have done differently?
Nope! nothing.
I actually moved this system from my 2018 JL to my 4xe. Love it!
Do you buy and install this all yourself or where can you get it installed if you’re like me and have no idea how to do any of this
I did install this myself. I have other videos on the complete install of all the items needed to install, and how to do it .
Many local trailer Hitch companies do this type of work. Where are you located?
How does the Jeep steering wheel move if the key isn’t in the Jeep’s ignition?
There is no keyed ignition. The steering doesn't lock.
HI, I forgot to ask you if this part fit on 2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland
It will. Give the team at maximus 3 a call. Mention my video, they are an awesome company.
Does this method add miles to your Jeep? I have a 2016 Jeep Wrangler
It will not add miles.
What does the whole setup cost, including the hookup and the brake system on the jeep?
I did this setup install myself
Estimated costs. About 3k
@@JeepsOnTheRun thank you.
I dont understand how the steering wheel stays in line with rv...
Does your Maximus need the tie rods? How come yours does not have one?
This video came out before the tie rod was a thing. I have updated the setup - there is a link in that video as well.
ua-cam.com/video/JmNaEmhVKms/v-deo.html
Hi, I trying find this attached you have in the Jeep , can I have the name of the part.
Thank you
Sorry, what exact part are you in search of?
Why the vehicle move when it's in park st confuse on this
The transfer case is in N. Therfore the transmission can be in park.
Hi just wondering does your steering lock or turn
The Jeep Wrangler steering wheel doesn’t lock (JK & JL)
Good video, thanks. Question: I see that the wheels move to the right or left following the RV turning direction. How so? Is the base plate connected to the steering mechanism of the Jeep? Thanks again.
Think of pulling a shopping cart from the front. The wheels turn as you pull it. Same idea.
@@JeepsOnTheRun I'm buying a 40 ft diesel pusher and a Jeep will be my tow car; with my wife we have decided that the best way to go is flat tow versus dolly so a Jeep is in the shopping cart!! Thanks
@@jaimelopez3991 please let me know if I can help you. I've got a great connection with the Jeep dealership as well. No games
The dealership actually has a Rubicon that is already set up for flat Towing too
@@JeepsOnTheRun I’m looking at an older model.. 2006 Wrangler… thanks anyway!
how do u lock the steering wheel? nobody shows that…i dont believe that steering wheel doesnt need to be locked.
Nothing is needed. The steering wheel dosent lock on the JL or JK for that matter.
Where did you get it installed? At the dealership?
I installed it myself. Here are some links that can help you out:
ua-cam.com/video/s4q-ntKA0rE/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/JmNaEmhVKms/v-deo.html
Can somebody provide the kit or a parts list for this setup?
It's all listed in the video description with links. Let me know if you need help.
That is not how my flat tow instructions says to set up. My manual says to put the transmission in Neutral, turn off the engine, put the transfer case in Neutral.
I wonder why some Jeeps can be put in neutral;transfer case with engine running & some can’t
You'll definitely want to have the trans in park when towing.
@@JeepsOnTheRun Yes, that is the final step.
It looks like the Jeep’s front wheels were steering when the RV turned. Was that an optical illusion or did you unlock the steering column somehow w/o the key?
The wheel does not lock on the JL, you are correct it was moving with the RV
If you have a locking wheel, you will need to turn the key to the first position that unlocks it without activating the ignition lights on the dash.
Should have put a relay on it not a switch and have the power from the Rv trip the relay when plugged in. Never forget the switch again.
does the Maximus act as a base plate?
Yes, see the other video about adding the tie bar as well.
ua-cam.com/video/4iScdPpTroY/v-deo.htmlsi=DPmmwRSSiNWa3qzE
See this video too
I thought it's bad to pull automatics because the rear wheels spin the transmission but with the vehicle not running there's no trans fluid flow because the pump isn't active. With a manual the gears are in fluid so you don't have to worry about it....but when automatics roll your turning the internals with no fluid.
Have you had any trans issues?
Nice video but crossing you safety cables will not keep your tow bar off the pavement.!
It won't hurt. Crossing chains / cables is standard practice.
What if this vehicle doesn't have 4x4
You'll need to check. Not all vehicles are able to flat tow.
@@JeepsOnTheRun ok cool the understandable
How much does a setup like this cost?
Doing the labor yourself.. About 3k in parts for this setup
@@JeepsOnTheRunThank You
@@mrjinglesturd you bet. Let me know if you have any questions
I have a 2018 Winnebago 22m on e450 chassis. I use it for nearby camping, but now considering a trip from Ohio to Utah, Grand Canyon etc. Do you think my small rig will be ok flat-towing a Jeep on this long of a trip?
Hate it cuz it’s still putting miles on the vehicle
No. There are no additional miles added to the vehicle's odometer.
Lol. Crossing your cables does nothing to support that tow bar if it fails. It’s just a matter of choice.
It does actually. It keeps it from falling directly into the road. Much like a trailer tongue
Rv people are so annoying. Don't actually do work. Throw money at it.
Can you explain?
Every part of my TV setup was done by myself. I maintain and install all of my own parts on the Jeep and rv.
Thanks for your comments.