Towing with Jk
JK Super Freak
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 1,205
Likes: 17
From: Oxford, AL
I have the 3.21s and 6 speed. The 1000lbs seems crazy to me. I tow close to 2000 weekly during the summer and have no problems whatsoever. The gearing obviously doesn't affect braking or handling with a trailer and there isn't a problem taking off or maintaining speed...I just don't get it. Anyway, just my two cents..do as I say, not as I do..obey your owners manual 
JK Super Freak
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 1,350
Likes: 3
From: MD
The tow rating is surely to avoid any issues and law suits. I've towed 13,000 pounds with a truck rated for 7,000. It's what you feel is acceptable. (The hitch was overbuilt and the trailer obviously had brakes)
My buddies 2012 with 3.21 feels more powerful than my '08 with 4.10s yet is rated to tow 2500 less? Eh, not buying into that.
My buddies 2012 with 3.21 feels more powerful than my '08 with 4.10s yet is rated to tow 2500 less? Eh, not buying into that.
JK Junkie
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 3,499
Likes: 162
From: brick, nj
Practically speaking you should be fine, unless you have some crazy hills on the roads you will be pulling the trailer on. I agree that the 3.21 gears don't decrease the safety as the vehicle weight, wheelbase, and stopping power are unchanged from the 3.73. My setup for the 4000+ towing includes dual axle trailer brakes, weight dist hitch, good brake controller, and friction controlled anti-sway. I have no concerns towing mine safely. I maintain safe speed, safe distance, etc. Gas mileage takes a dump. I get anywhere from 10-12 mpg while towing.
JK Super Freak
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,037
Likes: 0
From: Fonthill,Ontario
JK Junkie
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 3,499
Likes: 162
From: brick, nj
I have never found a good answer to this question- how is it possible the jeep liberty can be rated for 5000 and the JKU only 3500. All specs would indicate the JKU should be more capable regarding towing. Heavier, more powerful, wider, longer wheelbase..... The only answer I have seen is related to the wrangler hard top not protecting the occupants. Check out official jeep websites in other countries. You will see higher tow ratings for the gas powered JKU.
JK Jedi Master
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 12,907
Likes: 185
From: Maine
JK Enthusiast
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 240
Likes: 0
From: southern maryland
I have towed over 4000 pounds with my 2012. Manual trans and 3.73 rear. To make matters worse, it is a toy hauler that is essentially a big box. Check out my avatar pic. I have towed it for over 3000 miles now. You should do fine with only 2000 pounds. 6th gear is basically useless, even with the 3.$3 when towing. But 5th gear does fine at 65 on the highway.
You using a WD hitch and electric brake module? I am looking to be purchasing a camper soon and not sure what want to pull.
JK Junkie
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 3,499
Likes: 162
From: brick, nj
I found a new Curt weight dist hitch on eBay for $150. The brake controller I use is a Prodigy 2. The advantage with that controller is that is has a connector on the back. That way when I am not towing, the controller can be stored out o the way in the glove box. Also, I don't actually mount the controller. Is nests right in between the 4wd shifter and the emergency brake.