Rubicon Without Tow Package (Big Deal to Add Aftermarket)

[Bobby145]

I'm looking to buy a JT Rubicon at local dealer. Would be my first jeep (would also be my first new vehicle). Planned on ordering one but the dealer had one on the lot that has almost everything I want (given the steering issues I've read on this forum, I thought it might be better to just buy one I know drives well as opposed to ordering one and rolling the dice).

It has everything I want except the $350 tow package. Would this be hassle to add aftermarket? Obviously the hitch would be easy. I guess my concern is the "Heavy Duty Engine Cooling." Any other drawbacks (it also doesn't have the Aux Switch group, but I know this shouldn't be an issue to add)? Would appreciate any thoughts.

Sponsored

 

[Trauma PA]

Have the dealer add the $350 tow package. Tell him you want everything included in the package. Don't settle. The steering issue BS is overplayed IMO.

 

[Mark Doiron]

From what I understand, the dealer-added aux switch group includes the wiring for the four switches at the passenger footwell and in the engine compartment. However, it does not include the ignition switched and continuous hot wires at the passenger footwell. You may not need them, in which case that's moot. The aux switches are programmable for ignition switched, hot always, momentary, remember last setting etc, through the 8.4" display (can't vouch for other displays).

 

[Troybilt]

Just order the truck the way you want it. If the steering is no good there are laws to protect you from that. Then just order another one.

 

[Renegade]

From what I have been able to tell, other than the hitch itself, the only difference in having tow package is an 800 watt cooling fan vs. a 650 watt cooling fan. I guess it would depend on how much you’re really going to town as to whether it’s worth it. This is not to be confused with Max Tow, which comes with 4.10 gears.

 

[Mr._Bill]

Use the build tool on the web site and search dealer inventory. If you can't find what you want, order and get it the way you want it. You may drive it a long time, so make sure it's one you are happy with. Don't settle for one off the lot unless it's only missing simple add-on items, like a tonneau cover or floor mats. The tow package is not an easy dealer add. It will cost more than the factory price, and won't include everything in the package.

 

[Moe_Fugga]

If you’re doing some heavy duty towing then find the package you want. If your dealer won’t source one out from another dealer (dealer to dealer trade) then go to the other dealer. My Dealer didn’t have the JK I wanted years ago and I wasn’t willing to settle. The closest one we could find was in Florida and my dealer traded one they had on the lot (North GA). They didn’t want to lose a sale after I told them I’d drive down there to get it myself. If they’re not willing to work to make the deal then they aren’t worth dealing with IMO.

 

[TheNewWampsCat]

From what I understand, the dealer-added aux switch group includes the wiring for the four switches at the passenger footwell and in the engine compartment. However, it does not include the ignition switched and continuous hot wires at the passenger footwell. You may not need them, in which case that's moot. The aux switches are programmable for ignition switched, hot always, momentary, remember last setting etc, through the 8.4" display (can't vouch for other displays).

Where would they be found in the passenger footwell? My dealer added them and they’re located up behind the battery under the hood!

 

[Mr._Bill]

Where would they be found in the passenger footwell? My dealer added them and they’re located up behind the battery under the hood!

You may need to go have a chat with the dealer. There should be one set at the battery and a duplicate set under the dash on the passenger side. They are wired in parallel, so you can use either one to control a device with an Aux switch. They should be bundled up with heat shrink over the end of each wire.

 

[WXman]

Based upon my research and looking over vehicles on dealer lots, what I've found is that the Class IV hitch is the ONLY thing you get with the Towing Package on the Rubicon, as Rubicon already comes with wide track axles, 4.10 ratio, 850 watt engine fan, etc. Just pop a hitch on there and go.

 

[ShadowsPapa]

From what I have been able to tell, other than the hitch itself, the only difference in having tow package is an 800 watt cooling fan vs. a 650 watt cooling fan. I guess it would depend on how much you’re really going to town as to whether it’s worth it. This is not to be confused with Max Tow, which comes with 4.10 gears.

And the alternator to support the extra draw. Not a huge difference, but the one with towing is a bit larger.
Max tow has the 4.10 gears and the wider axles.

 

[TheNewWampsCat]

You may need to go have a chat with the dealer. There should be one set at the battery and a duplicate set under the dash on the passenger side. They are wired in parallel, so you can use either one to control a device with an Aux switch. They should be bundled up with heat shrink over the end of each wire.

I’ll check that out tomorrow, I’ll post what I find. Thanks!

 

[WayofWilliam]

Based upon my research and looking over vehicles on dealer lots, what I've found is that the Class IV hitch is the ONLY thing you get with the Towing Package on the Rubicon, as Rubicon already comes with wide track axles, 4.10 ratio, 850 watt engine fan, etc. Just pop a hitch on there and go.

That's what I had my dealer do. Found a near perfect spec Rubicon for me that was local, but no tow package or hitch. The plug with the wiring was there though. Just had the dealer work the price of adding in the hitch into the deal and all good now!

 

[Mark Doiron]

Where would they be found in the passenger footwell? My dealer added them and they’re located up behind the battery under the hood!

Look up high near the firewall. Mine were tucked up to the left, but wires are long enough to go either direction. Covered in black tape.

 

[ZTMAN]

Found a video on adding a hitch. Not as easy as the JKs, but looks like a driveway install. Don't know why Jeep would just not add the receiver if they are putting a ball mount attachment on.

https://www.google.com/search?q=add...me&ie=UTF-8#kpvalbx=_E4FdXsuFFu3s_Qbb07uoCA24

Sponsored