Towing

[lordmayor]

I have just recently purchased a 2012 WK Grand Cherokee Laredo CRD. I will be towing a single axle caravan (ball weigt 110kg, van 1500kg). As it has Trailer Sway Control do I still need stabiliser bars?

[Jim Connelly]

When I took delivery of my WK2 2012 the dealer indicated because it was a diesel it automatically had self levelling shocks fitted as standard. I used a weight distribution hitch when towing with my WG but was assured I needed it no more as the WK2 will automatically stay level no mater what the tow ball weight is.

Jim

[turbomart]

Its not a matter of level, its about redistributing some of the weight onto the front tyres to maintain stability/steering.
That said I doubt a mere 1500kg is gunna need weight dist hitch.

[JnK]

Originally Posted by Jim Connelly

When I took delivery of my WK2 2012 the dealer indicated because it was a diesel it automatically had self levelling shocks fitted as standard. I used a weight distribution hitch when towing with my WG but was assured I needed it no more as the WK2 will automatically stay level no mater what the tow ball weight is.

Jim

As Turbomart indicated the use of a WDH has an influence on the redistribution of the tow ball weight towards the front of the vehicle. There is no doubt of their value when towing heavier loads.
Jeep Australia issued a National Dealer Bulletin on 9 December 2011 advising that they had revised their towing specifications to reflect their recommendation that a WDH be used when towing ATW (Aggregate Towing Weight, including ball load) in excess of 2,268kg.
There is other information in the bulletin relating to the downrating of the tow ball load depending on the number of occupants and luggage in the vehicle.
Worth getting a copy from your dealer if you tow anything.

I wasn't aware that all diesels had self levelling suspension.
If you don't have the quadralift which is self levelling then the other option is the factory tow pack (separate from a dealer fitted tow bar) that has self levelling shock absorbers at the rear. Otherwise they just have standard coil springs which don't self level.