I was looking through the configs on the jeep site with the X model and tried to get the towing capacity up from 1000 lbs (since people mentioned it was more like 3500). This is one of the things im looking for in a JK since i sold my TJ (towing a boat with that short wheelbase and light jeep was a pain, lets not even talk about steep launching ramps). Anyway, the only way I could get the X to say 3500 lb towing capacity on the site was to add the locker rear axle for $650, not the LSD or anything else. Is this true- that unless we have this option the JK can only tow a jetski basically?
Thanks

 

I can't see how having a locked rear would increase the tow rating. Still the same engine torque, rear gearing, coil spring rate and all. Doesn't make sense to me!!! I'm sure it will pull / track better than an open rear, but increase the rateing??? I vote no. Chris

 

Agreed. I have an auto and 4.10s but no limited slip or locker. I have every intention of towing my boat, camper, motorcycle trailer, etc. and all of them weigh more than 1000 lbs. Just got the hitch in the mail yesterday so I haven't actually towed yet but, my previous tow vehicle was a Mazda B2300 (Ford Ranger) with a wheezing 2.3L 4, no 4wd, no LSD, no lockers, no auto and no 4.10s, and it did just fine.

Oh yeah, I am going to change the rear diff. fluid as DC recommends for towing and I'm also considering a tranny cooler. Anyone have any experience with tranny cooler on this vehicle? hard to install? one brand better than another?

 

Not sure if this is helpful but - if you get the tow group and/or you get an auto the gears are upgraded to 4.10 - and that gives you the $3,500 rated towing capacity.

 

The book says 2000 lbs for the 2dr and 3500 lbs for the 4 dr. but I say if you can get it to roll, TOW IT! ( do this at your own risk)

 

You do not need a locker to get the heavier towing capacity. On Jeep.com build and price at the bottom of the options page click on the more options bar and you can selsct the tow package. This will increase the towing capacity to 2000 lbs on the 2dr and 3500 lbs on the 4dr.

 

... yes--it's easily overlooked on the website. And, as someone else has mentioned, it will also change your rear end to 4.10 (without letting you know that it did so).

mark d.

 

You can't lock the axle unless you're in 4 low, so it's not the fact that the axle can be locked which would increase the tow rating. I would guess that because the lockers have the 4.10 gear ratio (which is better for towing, less stress on the drive train) and the Dana 44 axle housing is stronger as well which would make it a more heavy duty unit, would most likely be the reason for the increased towing capacity.

Edit: I just went to the Jeep website and I see at the bottom of the options page where you can choose other options, you can get the 4.10 gearing added for just $50. bucks, It comes in the Dana 44 housing and it doesn't have to be a locker, and doing this alone will increase the towing capacity.

I would sugjest not getting the stock Jeep "tow package" because the reciever hitch that comes from the factory is only class 2 rated. You can buy a good class 3 rated Hidden Hitch for $99. bucks