better towing capacity

[KingKJ]

Hey, I'm into overlanding and wan't to try to figure out a trailer that I could tow behind my vehicle. I'm wondering what kind of upgrades I could do to improve the power of my vehicle in order for easier towing. I don't plan on making something bigger than current towing capacity, just want to improve vehicle performance while towing.

 

[derekj]

Probably the best upgrade would be to re gear your diffs if you have not already done them.

 

[lfhoward]

^^^ This is the only way to get more power with the 3.7.

Also add the fan clutch and auxiliary mechanical fan to keep the temperatures down. Install an aux transmission cooler also if you will be towing up hills.

 

[JeepJeepster]

-4.10 gears.. Not required, but a good limited slip or locker.
-HD fan clutch with the clutched fan
-Bigger transmission cooler and/or PML pan. Mine runs a good bit cooler with just the pan, so Ive not put a bigger cooler on it.
-Good trailer brake controller.
-Depending on the size of the trailer, trailer sway control. This made my KJ feel more stable when towing than it does when not towing.

My KJ will easily tow 3,500 lbs with this setup. If I had to tow more than that, it would be much harder on the engine/trans. I can maintain 65 mph on a 6% grade in 3rd. Steeper than that and the drivetrain is screaming.

I once pulled an 8,000lb trailer and it wouldn't get above 35mph at WOT in 2nd. Going down hills were very scary and required constant trailer brakes to keep it from wagging.

 

[sota]

yea I wouldn't do 8k.
I've done just over 6k.