DIY Flat Tow Setup: How I Saved $3,000 on My Jeep Grand Cherokee

Want to flat tow your vehicle behind your RV but daunted by the high installation costs? In this comprehensive guide, we break down how "Changing Lanes" tackled a DIY flat tow setup on their Jeep Grand Cherokee, saving thousands of dollars. Follow along as we explore the components, installation process, and potential pitfalls, empowering you to tackle your own flat tow project while keeping your budget in check. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and discover how you can save big on your RV adventures!

The Flat Tow Challenge: Is DIY Worth It?

Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, is a popular method for RVers who want to bring a car along on their travels without using a trailer. It involves towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, connected to the RV via a tow bar. While convenient, the initial setup can be expensive, often requiring professional installation of base plates, braking systems, and wiring. The "Changing Lanes" channel faced this dilemma and decided to take the DIY route, documenting the entire process.

The biggest motivator? Saving a significant amount of money. Quotes for professional installation ranged around $3,000. By investing time and effort into DIY, they aimed to drastically reduce that cost. Remember to always consult your vehicle's owner's manual to confirm it can be flat towed and to follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures.

Essential Components and Installation

The project involved installing three key components: a base plate, a braking system, and wiring for lighting. The base plate serves as the physical connection between the Jeep and the tow bar, and the RV. "Changing Lanes" opted for a Blue Ox base plate, citing recommendations from fellow RVers. The braking system is crucial for safety, especially in emergency situations. They chose an inertial braking system that sits on the floor and pushes the brake pedal, along with a breakaway cable that automatically applies the Jeep's brakes if it disconnects from the RV.

Installing the base plate required removing the entire front bumper fascia, a task that initially seemed daunting. However, the detailed videos from etrailer proved invaluable, providing step-by-step instructions. The video creator emphasizes the importance of organization, recommending keeping parts in order as they are removed to facilitate reassembly. This meticulous approach is essential for a successful DIY project. This included having to cut some plastic pieces out of the bumper to allow for the base plate to fit through.

The braking system installation involved running a wire through the firewall to connect the breakaway cable to the braking unit. The video highlights a convenient grommet hole in the firewall that simplified this process. Running the wiring for the lighting system was relatively straightforward, thanks to a wiring harness that eliminates the need for cutting or splicing wires. The harness uses pass-through connectors that plug directly into the Jeep's taillights. Etrailer was a huge help for this project and it's a good idea to check out their website to find install videos for your setup.

Tips and Tricks for a Successful DIY Project

Throughout the installation process, the video shares several helpful tips and tricks. One key takeaway is the importance of consulting etrailer's product pages, which often include install videos and an "ask the expert" section. The "ask the expert" feature allowed the video creator to get personalized guidance on a specific part. It is important to note that the base plate installation required some adjustments to the safety cables to prevent rattling. This demonstrates the importance of attention to detail and problem-solving skills in a DIY project.

Another useful tip involves using plastic rivets and push pins for securing various components. The video creator purchased a plastic rivet gun and extra push pins, recognizing the prevalence of these fasteners in automotive applications. When running wires, they followed the vehicle's frame to keep the wiring out of the way and protected from the elements. They used the BLUETTI Apex 300 to power their Starlink and laptops while on the road and off grid, highlighting the importance of having a reliable power source when traveling.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite careful planning, the project encountered a few challenges. The video creator had to figure out how to remove certain plastic inserts in the bumper to accommodate the base plate. This required using a Dremel tool with a plastic cutting attachment, demonstrating the need for specialized tools in some DIY projects. After reattaching the bumper, the six-way connector for the lighting system was positioned too low, requiring a modification to the mounting plate.

These challenges highlight the importance of flexibility and adaptability in DIY projects. The video creator emphasizes the value of a Dremel tool for tackling unexpected issues and making custom modifications. It's also worth noting the iterative nature of the process, involving test-fitting components and making adjustments as needed. Day four of the project was the estimated finishing date, however, the project took longer than expected due to a few snags.

Key Takeaways

Significant Cost Savings: DIY flat tow setup can save thousands compared to professional installation.
Etrailer Resources: Utilize etrailer's install videos and "ask the expert" feature for guidance.
Organization is Key: Keep parts organized during disassembly to simplify reassembly.
Specialized Tools: A Dremel tool can be invaluable for tackling unexpected modifications.
Attention to Detail: Pay attention to cable routing and tension to prevent rattling.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Be prepared to adjust your plans and solutions as needed.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a DIY flat tow setup can be a rewarding experience, offering significant cost savings and a sense of accomplishment. The "Changing Lanes" video provides a comprehensive overview of the process, highlighting the components, installation steps, and potential challenges. By following their example, you can confidently tackle your own DIY flat tow project and enjoy the freedom of bringing your car along on your RV adventures. Don't forget to check out the full video for a more detailed look at the installation process and to see the final results!