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Factory Hitch vs. aftermarket

Old 01-05-2013, 10:12 AM
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Default Factory Hitch vs. aftermarket

Looking for a '13 unlimited. Dealer wants $400+ for "Hitch". Is it just a trailer hitch or is there more involved in the Tow Package??
Old 01-05-2013, 10:25 AM
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Originally Posted by Teachderf
Looking for a '13 unlimited. Dealer wants $400+ for "Hitch". Is it just a trailer hitch or is there more involved in the Tow Package??
I think smittybilt has an after market pretty cheap. Look at quadratec. All u need is hitch and wires. Very easy install. Took me about 10 min
Old 01-05-2013, 10:35 AM
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Default Tow Package??

Found lots of aftermarket receiver hitches, but what do you get with the factory tow package? Is it just a dealer installed hitch?
Old 01-05-2013, 11:26 AM
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Originally Posted by Teachderf
Found lots of aftermarket receiver hitches, but what do you get with the factory tow package? Is it just a dealer installed hitch?
Tow package from factory I think includes a block heater. Other than that it is the same if installed after market.
Old 01-05-2013, 11:37 AM
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Originally Posted by Teachderf
Looking for a '13 unlimited. Dealer wants $400+ for "Hitch". Is it just a trailer hitch or is there more involved in the Tow Package??
Yes it includes wiring which is a pain in the ass to do after the fact. IMHO
Old 01-05-2013, 11:46 AM
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Originally Posted by Lancejk
Yes it includes wiring which is a pain in the ass to do after the fact. IMHO

The wiring is the easiest part. Remove the two Phillips screws on the tail light and plug it in. The whole job can be done with a Phillips screwdriver. eTralier is a reliable source I use for all my towing stuff
Old 01-05-2013, 11:59 AM
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Wiring is plug n play.
Old 01-05-2013, 12:51 PM
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For 2013, the factory tow package adds NOTHING extra.

Just make sure you get the correct axle ratio.

I added my own hitch and harness (which is all you get in the factory package).....it is very easy to do. Got mine from Quadratec for $89 shipped. (ask for free shipping)

Quadratec Premium 2" Receiver Hitch with Wiring Kit & Jeep® Logo Plug for 07-13 Jeep® Wrangler & Wrangler Unlimited JK - Quadratec
Old 01-05-2013, 12:55 PM
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You will have taller rear coils if you have the factory tow package
Old 01-05-2013, 01:18 PM
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Originally Posted by LidLess07X

The wiring is the easiest part. Remove the two Phillips screws on the tail light and plug it in. The whole job can be done with a Phillips screwdriver. eTralier is a reliable source I use for all my towing stuff
I didn't think that it was a spliced system. I believe it comes from the fuse box.

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