Flat towing unveiled: the definitive guide to jeep cherokee with active drive 1

Can Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1 be flat towed? The answer is yes, but with certain precautions and procedures. Active Drive 1 is a part-time four-wheel-drive system that can be shifted into two-wheel-drive when flat towing. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to flat tow a Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1, ensuring a safe and enjoyable towing experience.

Understanding Active Drive 1

Active Drive 1 is an advanced four-wheel-drive system that automatically engages when needed, providing enhanced traction in slippery or off-road conditions. It features a single-speed transfer case and an open differential, allowing for easy shifting between two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive.

Preparing the Jeep Cherokee for Flat Towing

Before flat towing your Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1, it’s crucial to prepare the vehicle properly. Here are the necessary steps:

1. Shift into Two-Wheel-Drive: Place the Jeep Cherokee in “2WD” mode. This disengages the four-wheel-drive system and allows the rear wheels to rotate freely.
2. Disconnect the Driveshaft: Disconnect the driveshaft from the rear differential. This prevents the rear wheels from being powered by the transmission.
3. Install a Tow Bar and Safety Chains: Connect the tow bar to the front of the Jeep Cherokee and secure it with safety chains. Ensure the chains are crossed underneath the tow vehicle.
4. Activate Supplementary Braking System: If your tow vehicle is not equipped with a surge brake, you must install a supplementary braking system in the Jeep Cherokee. This ensures the towed vehicle brakes effectively when the tow vehicle slows down.

Flat Towing Procedure

Once the Jeep Cherokee is properly prepared, follow these steps for flat towing:

1. Secure the Steering Wheel: Use a steering wheel lock or bungee cord to keep the steering wheel straight while towing.
2. Cover the Electrical Connector: Cover the electrical connector on the Jeep Cherokee‘s dash to prevent electrical issues.
3. Monitor Fluid Levels: Periodically check the fluid levels of the Jeep Cherokee, including oil, coolant, and transmission fluid.
4. Drive Slowly and Safely: Maintain a safe speed and distance while towing the Jeep Cherokee. Avoid sudden stops or maneuvers.

Precautions and Limitations

While flat towing a Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1 is possible, it’s essential to observe certain precautions and limitations:

1. Towing Distance: The recommended towing distance for a Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1 is 60 miles. Exceeding this distance may cause damage to the transfer case.
2. Towing Speed: The maximum towing speed for a Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1 is 55 mph. Higher speeds can increase the risk of transmission or driveline damage.
3. Weight: The Jeep Cherokee should not be towed behind a vehicle that weighs less than 5,000 pounds.
4. Terrain: Flat towing is only recommended on paved roads. Avoid towing on rough or uneven terrain, as it can damage the Jeep Cherokee’s driveline.

Maintenance and Inspection

After flat towing your Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1, it’s crucial to perform the following maintenance and inspection procedures:

1. Reconnect the Driveshaft: Reattach the driveshaft to the rear differential.
2. Change Fluids: Replace the transmission fluid and differential fluid to remove any contaminants that may have accumulated during towing.
3. Inspect Driveline: Thoroughly inspect the driveshaft, u-joints, and other driveline components for any damage or wear.
4. Reset Transfer Case: Use a scan tool to reset the transfer case to its default settings.

Alternatives to Flat Towing

If flat towing is not feasible for your situation, consider these alternatives:

1. Trailer Towing: Transporting the Jeep Cherokee on a trailer allows for longer distances and higher speeds.
2. Dolly Towing: A dolly supports the front wheels of the Jeep Cherokee, allowing the rear wheels to roll freely.
3. Motorhome Towing: Towing the Jeep Cherokee behind a motorhome provides a comfortable and convenient towing experience.

Recommendations: Flat Towing with Confidence

By following the guidelines and precautions outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can flat tow your Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1 safely and confidently. Proper preparation, maintenance, and inspection are essential to ensure a trouble-free towing experience. Whether you’re exploring new destinations or transporting your Jeep Cherokee for repairs, flat towing with Active Drive 1 can be a convenient and cost-effective option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I flat tow a Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 2?
A: No, flat towing is not recommended for Jeep Cherokees with Active Drive 2.

Q: What is the maximum towing capacity for a Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1?
A: The maximum towing capacity is 2,000 pounds.

Q: Can I tow a Jeep Cherokee with Active Drive 1 in neutral?
A: No, towing in neutral is not recommended and can damage the transmission.