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Adding Trailer Hitch Receiver

5K views 14 replies 10 participants last post by  PMD G8 
#1 ·
Has anyone added a trailer hitch receiver to a non tow package 2011.

Just wondering because I found the perfect Overland, but it is missing the tow package. I'm curious as to how the bumper cover would look being done after the fact instead of factory.

I know I am going to miss out on the HD alternator, cooling, and load leveling rear suspension, but I don't plan to tow often.

Any input is appreciated. Thanks
 
#2 ·
It will be fine especially if you do not tow often. If the dealer installs they should have experience adding this sort of option. The bumper covers can usually be cut and as long as they know what they are doing will look just as good as original equipment. If not then you may have to buy a new bumper cover (ouch) those are expensive.
 
#5 ·
I forgot to mention, I will be getting the V8. I plan to tow a boat that is about 5000lbs with trailer. It will be short distances to the lake and back, and maybe one trip a year about 350 miles each way to Lake Mead.

paui4m- love the hidden hitch idea. What brand am I looking for to do something like this. (Is Hidden Hitch the brand?) I'll start searching now.

Thanks again for all the help. Can't wait to join you all with my WK2
 
#6 ·
I forgot to mention, I will be getting the V8
Is this an Overland you found already at the dealer? Not sure if earlier ones came without it, but the Jeep site indicates the V8 package include the tow package.

5.7-liter V8 MDS dual Variable Valve Timing engine packs 360 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 390 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm.
Includes:
  • 230MM Rear Axle
  • 3.45 Rear Axle Ratio
  • Antilock 4-Wheel Disc Heavy Duty Brakes
  • Dual Bright Rear Exhaust Tips
  • Electronic Limited-Slip Rear DifferentialElectronic limited-slip differentials can rapidly transfer up to 100 percent of available torque to any wheel, along each axle.
  • GVW Rating - 6,800 PoundsWhen properly equipped. See dealer and check owner's manual for details.
  • Quadra-Drive II® 4WD SystemThe Quadra-Drive II® 4WD system provides advanced control and capability. It includes an active full-time transfer case with an electronically controlled clutch pack and axles with electronic limited-slip differentials for quick response. Quadra-Drive is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.
  • Trailer Tow Group IV

 
#7 · (Edited)
Metalaxe, what is your boat and do you have a double axle trailer with brakes? 350 miles is a long pull with a 5k lb boat. It's as much about the tranny cooling and braking as it is the engine.

Presume dealer is at least going to get you a 4 pin brake light and turn signal harness as well?
 
#8 ·
Metalaxe, what is your boat and do you have a double axle trailer with brakes? 350 miles is a long pull with a 5k lb boat. It's as much about the tranny cooling and braking as it is the engine.
what he said....my baja is about 5k pounds and i can tell its there behind my duramax....def wanna look into tranny cooler and a good hitch
 
#9 ·
My previous GC Overland ('02) was ordered with the tow package and showed up with none. They first offered me an aftermaket one which I refused. I had them install factory parts (at no cost) and it looked original but it didn't have the upgrades to the transmission etc. I never towed anything but I needed the hitch for my bike rack.
So, yes, it can be done to look factory.
 
#10 ·
I am towing a 232 Caravelle Interceptor. I do have a tandem axle trailer with brakes. I will definitely add a transmission cooler.

The dealer just got back to me and said they will throw in the hitch install as part of the deal. Feel free to let me know if you think this is a good deal or not, too. I feel pretty good about it.

Possibly will finalize everything tomorrow.

Here are the WK2 specs: $37,800 plus TTL (sticker $40,990)
Overland 4x2
Black Exterior
Black Interior
5.7 V8 Hemi
730N Nav system
Trailer Hitch receiver installed at dealer
 
#11 · (Edited)
Very nice boat man. Looks fast and sleek. That thing must do in the high 50's mph?

Strongly recommend you check with both dealer and a third-party hitch installer in your area. You'll definitely want the seven pin connector and brake controller for the JGC. Don't want your watercraft passing the JGC on the road.

Sorry, don't mean to rain on your parade, as the deal laid out above looks good. Just worth the effort to get squared away when you're towing that sweet 23' footer over 600 hundred miles round trip.
 
#12 ·
I appreciate reading this thread. I am in a similar situation but already down the path. I have a 2011 Limited Gr Ch. I am adding the hitch, harness, and rear bezel at the dealer. I am missing out on the load leveling suspension. Should I be concerned? I figured adding a tranny cooler is a relatively simple add on but not sure about the suspension sacrifice I have made. Any comments are appreciated. I am towing a Mastercraft 4200 to 4400 pounds depending on gear (includes trailer). I only two one or two long trips per year, the rest is just around the corner to the ramp. I think the set up will be fine with base suspension but thought I would ask some opinions on what I may want to consider and why.
 
#13 ·
What is up with Jeep and not making the Tow Package standard?

Also I was on Jeep.com and under build your Jeep you could option tow packages on all Grand Cherokees EXCEPT Overlands. WTH? I'm out of town right now but I'm gonna try and go by the local dealer and see what they have to say if it shows up when you try and order one.
 
#14 ·
The Overland has the tow package standard. At first it wasn't- when we ordered one back in July it was a special option. When we finally gave up on the order in late Sept. and bought one off the lot, it had the tow package standard.

That's why you can't add it as an option; it's already there.
 
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