2021 Gladiator Overland Towing Capacity - Lots of Mixed Information?

[Golden_Pygo]

Hello everyone, I have a 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland automatic transmission and I'm searching for a suitable travel trailer to tow. We are from Canada planning to go across the US throughout the winter so it will be more than just a quick weekend getaway. The problem is that I'm finding a lot of mixed information as to what the actual tow capacity of this vehicle is.

I called the dealership where I bought the vehicle, they looked up my VIN and said that my factory specs are a class IV hitch with 7650lbs tow capacity. However I have also seen some people say that only the Sport S model can do 7650lbs, and the overland caps at 6000lbs.

The manual does show some models with a "tow package" and some with a "max tow package". Is it possible I have an Overland with a Max Tow Package? Then I also wonder about my GCVWR and Payload capacity.

I also have a screenshot from the Jeep website showing the 2023 gladiator overland models with a 7650 tow capacity. I would assume this is legit?

I'm hoping someone can help clarify this for me... I was originally looking at a 6100lbs dry weight travel trailer, but I'm second guessing because I don't want any issues.

Thank you!

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[Mr._Bill]

Do you have your Window Sticker or Build Sheet from when you bought it? There are links available to look it up with the VIN number, but I don't know if they will work for Canadian models.

USA Towing Capacity for the Gas Overland with the Automatic Transmission is 6000 pounds with a Factory Installed Tow Package, 4500 pounds without. Max Tow is an option for the Sport Model and gives it the 7650 pound towing capacity.

Payload capacity is on the Door Sticker. It was 1032 pounds for my 2020 Overland.

 

[TheDerb]

Overland did not come with the option of the Max Tow package, which changes gear ratios and gives you different axles

I can’t find Stellantis’ ‘21 data sheet, but here is the info for the ‘22.



You more than likely have a 6,000 lb maximum tow weight rating.

Also, I don’t think you have full context on what you saw for the 2023. Here is a screen grab of OEM limits for 2023 models.

 

[DailyMoparGuy]

6k is your max in the Overland Auto 3.6L (assuming you have the tow package)

6,100lbs dry weight trailer in what looks to be around the Canadian Rockies for you, would be pushing it for any Gladiator imo. But I’m sure someone has done it.

https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/...ent-gladiators-tow-capacity.44587/post-718851

edit: I completely misjudged the hills/trees in you profile pic. Maybe not the Canadian Rockies. I need to put my glasses on lol

 

[hepcat]

I just got my '22 Overland about three weeks ago and was faced with exactly the same dilemma. Even my salesman, who is a good friend, had trouble determining what the actual tow rating for the Overland is. The posts above outline it pretty well, and there's a section in the owners manual that lays it out clearly. Your Overland is rated for 6,000 lbs with the 3.73 axle ratio and 8 speed auto. The Max Tow package is only available on the Sport models and has a 4.10 rear end ratio and 7600lb rated capacity.

Here's where it gets interesting. The hitch itself is a Class IV which is rated at 10,000lb capacity, and a 1,000 lb tongue weight. Of course the chassis isn't rated for that much weight, but the chassis and hitch ARE the same on the Overland and the Max Tow Sport. So... it's safe to assume for hitch weight that the hitch and frame will carry up to 15% of any trailer weight under the maximum tow rating of the Max Tow package.

I had the OEM FCA brake controller installed by my dealership, and it works seamlessly and flawlessly. I've always used a Prodigy P3 in the past.

 

[Josh00333]

I'm hoping someone can help clarify this for me... I was originally looking at a 6100lbs dry weight travel trailer, but I'm second guessing because I don't want any issues.

As stated above your tow rating is 6k. Payload and tongue weight are the two biggest overlooked items when towing w "small" trucks, hell even most 1500's are often over payload once loaded up.

6100 DRY for a trailer will be closer to 6750 if not 7k ready for the road: that means accessories, propane, water, food, beer, clothes, wife purse, the kids toys, dog food, beer, toilet paper, grill, pop up awning, camp chairs, I mention beer? That all adds to weight.

So, I'm sorry friend 6100 dry is WAY to big a trailer to start.

I would shop for a 4k dry +- some and go from there. As much as slides and bunk beds for kids are attractive, they are heavy.

First go scale your truck. That will tell you how much payload you have. See the door sticker. Subtract you, passengers, all the tools every Jeeper seems to need. Then add 12% of the weight of the trailer for tongue weight.

You may be surprised how close to if not over weight you are with out even hooking up the first time.

 

[Mr._Bill]

I just got my '22 Overland about three weeks ago and was faced with exactly the same dilemma. Even my salesman, who is a good friend, had trouble determining what the actual tow rating for the Overland is. The posts above outline it pretty well, and there's a section in the owners manual that lays it out clearly. Your Overland is rated for 6,000 lbs with the 3.73 axle ratio and 8 speed auto. The Max Tow package is only available on the Sport models and has a 4.10 rear end ratio and 7600lb rated capacity.

Here's where it gets interesting. The hitch itself is a Class IV which is rated at 10,000lb capacity, and a 1,000 lb tongue weight. Of course the chassis isn't rated for that much weight, but the chassis and hitch ARE the same on the Overland and the Max Tow Sport. So... it's safe to assume for hitch weight that the hitch and frame will carry up to 15% of any trailer weight under the maximum tow rating of the Max Tow package.

I had the OEM FCA brake controller installed by my dealership, and it works seamlessly and flawlessly. I've always used a Prodigy P3 in the past.

Making assumptions about Tow Capacity based on other models is a dangerous thing to do. The Max Tow package has wider axles, different gearing, higher capacity rear springs, and tires sized for the weight rating it carries.

 

[Golden_Pygo]

Thanks everyone, it seems pretty clear that 6k is the number to go by. I will revamp my trailer search and will look for something a little smaller. I'm really surprised at how confusing this is, I've been trying to figure it out for weeks.

I really appreciate the help!

 

[hepcat]

Making assumptions about Tow Capacity based on other models is a dangerous thing to do. The Max Tow package has wider axles, different gearing, higher capacity rear springs, and tires sized for the weight rating it carries.

I think you misinterpreted what I said. The hitch and the frame are the same, which is what is important in figuring out tongue weight maximums for the hitch itself. Jeep provides no guidance at all, for maximum tongue weight, other than to say that 13% tongue weight is appropriate. With the Max Tow package that would be 980lbs for a 7600 lb trailer. Figuring out what that means is important when you're at the limit of your tow rating, e.g. 6,000 lbs in my case. I have a 590lb tongue weight with a 5300 lb (dry)trailer, which is only 9% and I need to load the trailer for more tongue weight. Mine needs to be around 700lbs. Tongue weight is, of course, also a function of the truck's load capacity, so there are a number of factors to sort out. But the issue is that the truck's receiver hitch itself isn't the weak link here.

 

[Labswine]

I have an Overland and I tow a 27' LOA, ~5,100 lb with all we want or need trailer. Mostly east coast USA towing...so far...but it handles it just fine. Manually shift the 8sp trans. I almost never see 8th but typically run at around 65 MPH in 7th at around 2,100 RPMs. Hit a grade, and when the speed drops below 58 MPH, I'll drop to 6th at around 2,500-2,600 RPMs until I'm back to around 65 MPH or I've crested the hill and am back to cruising speed. I don't go over 65 MPH when towing. Equipment temps are also not unreasonable for this truck. Not towing, engine runs at 195 degrees. Towing, I've seen it between 215-220 degrees even when it's over 95 degrees outside. I average around 13 MPG.

I have the BlueOx WDH/sway control and use a Tekonsha Primus IQ brake controller.

Stick in the 4,300 unloaded to 5,000+ Lbs with all you want or need range and you'll do just fine.

Here's my rig...Vantage Sonic SN220VRB.

 

[chorky]

I think you misinterpreted what I said. The hitch and the frame are the same, which is what is important in figuring out tongue weight maximums for the hitch itself. Jeep provides no guidance at all, for maximum tongue weight, other than to say that 13% tongue weight is appropriate. With the Max Tow package that would be 980lbs for a 7600 lb trailer. Figuring out what that means is important when you're at the limit of your tow rating, e.g. 6,000 lbs in my case. I have a 590lb tongue weight with a 5300 lb (dry)trailer, which is only 9% and I need to load the trailer for more tongue weight. Mine needs to be around 700lbs. Tongue weight is, of course, also a function of the truck's load capacity, so there are a number of factors to sort out. But the issue is that the truck's receiver hitch itself isn't the weak link here.

They kinda do though. In a roundabout way. It's nearly impossible to be specific, and it mostly doesn't even matter because in all likelyhood, payload will be exceeded before anyone can get close to a maximum specified trailer weight. And once payload is exceeded, you are technically illegal. All of the ratings are independent, but at the same not mutually exclusive. The hitch has to be rated at a higher weight than the vehicle's towing capacity, well not a requirement but every factory installed hitch will be due to liabilities. That rating though is more or less irrelevant with a factory tow hitch install. However, if installing a aftermarket hitch it is important as one might opt to install a hitch that is rated at a lower capacity than the vehicle is rated for. That's a bad combination though...

Tongue weight recommendations are pretty common and most trailers have them stamped somewhere on their sticker (this might actually be a requirement?). Anyway, tongue rating matters. Let's say the driver weighs 200 pounds, and mom weighs 150, kids together another 150. Then there is a dog at 80, the cooler and beach toys at 175. Now you are at 755 pounds, which is darn near over the payload of every Gladiator option. And this doesnt' include the added weight of that bumper, and winch, and under-armor, and lights, etc..... Then add a 12% tongue weight of a 5,000# trailer and your sitting at 1355 pounds total 'payload'. Yes, tongue weight counts against payload. This is why I have said so many times on multiple threads, it is impossible to have a JT outfitted for a standard 3 day camping weekend with a family and actually be under legal weight ratings, unless one is minimalist.

Just because the frame and hitch of all JT models are the 'same', that does not mean they have the same legal capacities. They may have the same engineering capacities, but legal capacities are not the same. So there is a risk that someone is taking on themselves by doing that. Theres a lot of factors involved, much of it is fueled by various laws. The only way to actually max out the towing capacity and staying within GVW and CGVW is a fully stripped down base model Max Tow, with a single occupant (driver). I think there was some discussion and calculations on this somewhere on a different thread.

 

[ShadowsPapa]

Not this again...........
There's no confusion or mixed information.
It's really as simple as this and leave the hitch/receiver calculations out of it - STOP IT - it doesn't matter if you put on a 15,000 pound capable receiver. The TRUCK is rated for 6,000 pounds towing with automatic transmission, 3.6 gas engine and tow package.
It's really truly that simple.
Start with mods like bigger tires, heavier stuff, lifts and so on, it reduces that 6,000
But you start with 6K and anyone trying to calculate the crap out of stuff is just confusing things.

Making assumptions about Tow Capacity based on other models is a dangerous thing to do. The Max Tow package has wider axles, different gearing, higher capacity rear springs, and tires sized for the weight rating it carries.

They have figured a ton of things in this - center of gravity, tire size, heat rejection, exactly what RPM it will be in at what speed with what load and much more - plus having to pass those SAE tests I've quoted many times.

Thanks everyone, it seems pretty clear that 6k is the number to go by. I will revamp my trailer search and will look for something a little smaller. I'm really surprised at how confusing this is, I've been trying to figure it out for weeks.

I really appreciate the help!

It's only confusing if you listen to some of the crap on forums. 6K is it.
I tow 5,000 pounds with 500 pound tongue weight. it's perfect.
That 500 pounds of tongue weight counts against the payload which is on your door sticker.
I run 10% tongue weight, have always tried to hit that number and have always been fine.

Here's where it gets interesting. The hitch itself is a Class IV which is rated at 10,000lb capacity, and a 1,000 lb tongue weight. Of course the chassis isn't rated for that much weight, but the chassis and hitch ARE the same on the Overland and the Max Tow Sport. So... it's safe to assume for hitch weight that the hitch and frame will carry up to 15% of any trailer weight under the maximum tow rating of the Max Tow package.

Stop trying to over-think it or justify other numbers. None of that class xx hitch or same frame stuff matters a @#$%.

The book is the book, these have been run through tests and engineering, and the door sticker payload is the payload. That's it.

You can't build it to be more than what it is,, but most Jeep owners on forums tend to build them making them less than what they are for towing and payload.

Once you start swapping tires and lifts and such, you drop those numbers.

 

[Golden_Pygo]

It's only confusing if you listen to some of the crap on forums. 6K is it.

In this case, it's the opposite. The dealership looked up the VIN and specifically said 7650lbs, but the people on the forums said otherwise. You would expect the dealership to know the correct vehicle specs when looking up a VIN!

Here's my rig...Vantage Sonic SN220VRB.

Nice! I actually saw that post earlier when searching the forums. I'll likely be getting something that size.

 

[ShadowsPapa]

In this case, it's the opposite. The dealership looked up the VIN and specifically said 7650lbs, but the people on the forums said otherwise. You would expect the dealership to know the correct vehicle specs when looking up a VIN!



Nice! I actually saw that post earlier when searching the forums. I'll likely be getting something that size.

MORON dealer - all he had to do was open the stupid owners manual, which ironically, too many owners don't bother doing. It's in black and white, very simple terms, a neat, easy-to-read chart provided with every Jeep sold either in paper or PDF or electronic form -

if that doesn't settle it and clear things up, nothing will!

In some forums, there's a term similar to RTFM........... dealers should know better.
It's in their marketing materials.
Heck, my sales guy knew the towing rating of every Jeep and every RAM truck on the lot.
Ask him "what about.....xxxx" and he knew the tow rating.

 

[hepcat]

MORON dealer - all he had to do was open the stupid owners manual, which ironically, too many owners don't bother doing. It's in black and white, very simple terms, a neat, easy-to-read chart provided with every Jeep sold either in paper or PDF or electronic form -

if that doesn't settle it and clear things up, nothing will!

In some forums, there's a term similar to RTFM........... dealers should know better.
It's in their marketing materials.
Heck, my sales guy knew the towing rating of every Jeep and every RAM truck on the lot.
Ask him "what about.....xxxx" and he knew the tow rating.

While you were posting this, I was searching the manual, and did screenshots of each page. For my '22 Overland, it's pp 166-172.

FWIW, this is the ONLY place I've found the information. It doesn't seem to exist in Jeep world outside the owner's manual. I suspect that lack of distribution is the source of folks' confusion. MY dealer told me that the tow rating was 5800 lbs, which is actually the GVWR of the Jeep.

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