Purchasing Jeep for Towing - Page 2

lightningd · 07-08-2007, 02:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mendelmax

And, if you'll be looking at ZJ anyway, then take post lifting one- after 96. It will give you stronger rear axle and a bit better tranny, not mentioning better t-case (with on demand engaged front instead of all time 4wd).

What do you mean by post lifting?

yea, i like the option to turn 4wd on and off. I've heard that towing with it puts a lot of strain on the transfer case which isn't really necessary.

mendelmax · 07-08-2007, 02:44 PM

I mean "lifting" as a little redesign that was done at 96. You know- new interior, new axle, new t-case etc.

The t-case doesn't allow you to select 2WD mode, it's automatic, but still transmits 100% torque to the rear until the slip occurs.

lightningd · 07-08-2007, 03:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mendelmax

I mean "lifting" as a little redesign that was done at 96. You know- new interior, new axle, new t-case etc.

The t-case doesn't allow you to select 2WD mode, it's automatic, but still transmits 100% torque to the rear until the slip occurs.

oh ok. gotcha.

another question. how hard is it to replace the transfer case in one of these?

mendelmax · 07-08-2007, 03:24 PM

It's easy, but this 249 on-demand t-case is very strong, so it would be the best choice for towing for my taste. The only problem is worn viscous coupler that you may read about here and there...

lightningd · 07-08-2007, 05:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mendelmax

It's easy, but this 249 on-demand t-case is very strong, so it would be the best choice for towing for my taste. The only problem is worn viscous coupler that you may read about here and there...

you're right on. i seen one for sale that said something about the coupler, thus the reason for asking.

easy sounds good heh. i have to many bad memories from my dad as a kid working on ford trucks, aka, royal pains in the @$$

Sporer65 · 07-08-2007, 07:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mendelmax

And, if you'll be looking at ZJ anyway, then take post lifting one- after 96. It will give you stronger rear axle and a bit better tranny, not mentioning better t-case (with on demand engaged front instead of all time 4wd).

Actually, the 46RH is a much better and reliable transmission then the 44RE. Good point on the axle and transfer case.

BigDaveZJ · 07-08-2007, 08:42 PM

Find a cheap 1/2 ton truck with a V8. Should be able to get a beat to crap work truck with good running gear for a good price, and you'll actually get a frame.

And does your trailer have brakes? If not, DO NOT use a ZJ. A ZJ's brakes can barely stop one rig, let alone two.

lightningd · 07-08-2007, 09:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sporer65

Actually, the 46RH is a much better and reliable transmission then the 44RE. Good point on the axle and transfer case.

that's all greek to me. what do those numbers mean? i'm sure there is probably a chart or something here on this site...

Quote:

Originally Posted by BigDaveZJ

Find a cheap 1/2 ton truck with a V8. Should be able to get a beat to crap work truck with good running gear for a good price, and you'll actually get a frame.

And does your trailer have brakes? If not, DO NOT use a ZJ. A ZJ's brakes can barely stop one rig, let alone two.

it's a tandem axle w/ electric brakes on both axles. it weight 1350lbs, add the car in at 2430lbs plus parts/tools. the brakes are strong enough to lock up w/ an adjustable brake controller.

**PR1AWRet** · 07-08-2007, 09:58 PM

Weight distribution hitch, if I remember correctly, can't be used on a unibody frame.

Sporer65 · 07-08-2007, 10:00 PM

The numbers 46 and 44 mean the torque rating. R means rear wheel drive. E means electronic and H means hydraulic, both refering to how the tranny is controlled. Chrysler makes a pretty good hydraulic transmission (727 torqueflight for example) and not the best electronic transmission. Even the newer ones aren't the best but much better.

ptwelve · 07-09-2007, 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Locked98GC

Weight distribution hitch, if I remember correctly, can't be used on a unibody frame.

I'm pretty sure that is inaccurate. ...Without being able to remember direct quotes or links, I am nearly certain it is common to use WD and sway control hitches on unibody suvs. You will see this very regularly when towing the travel trailers.

lightningd · 07-09-2007, 11:35 PM

I guess i'll have to call the manufacterers and see what they say. thanks for the heads up.

Joeyicu · 07-21-2007, 03:52 PM

WD hitches can be used on both, not sure where you heard that from

the ford pickups are pretty easy to work on, chevy pickups are even easier (older ones) why not look for a 2wd one of those? if its only going to haul 7 times a year

i just think these trucks are not any fun to haul in at all, and a GC vs a 1/2 ton pickup hauling the 1/2ton wins hands down

all that being said each to his own, your hitch setup may be a bit pricey though

kf4ytr · 07-22-2007, 09:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Locked98GC

Weight distribution hitch, if I remember correctly, can't be used on a unibody frame.

Heh, tell that to my '96 ZJ's receiver. It has load capacities for WD and non-WD printed on its frame. Then again, I've yet to tow with it.

34ford · 07-24-2007, 09:49 AM

Do not forget about stopping this rig, you need brake hook-up ,also the combined weight on your "towed set up " weights more than the "tow rig" .NOT a good thing. This cannot end well!

07-09-2007, 11:35 PM	#27
lightningd Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Chesapeake, VA Posts: 15 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	I guess i'll have to call the manufacterers and see what they say. thanks for the heads up.

07-24-2007, 09:49 AM	#30
34ford Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: mt dora fl Posts: 102 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	Do not forget about stopping this rig, you need brake hook-up ,also the combined weight on your "towed set up " weights more than the "tow rig" .NOT a good thing. This cannot end well!