Jeep Grand Cherokee as a TV

[jepotts]

Hello, I currently have a GM Uplander 3.9 towing a 17Z. Thinking of upgrading to a used Jeep Grand C. with 3.7l gas engine. Anyone out there using this unit, anything to watch and how much can it tow? Thanks in advance.

John

[Boss Wagon]

The 3.7 is rated around 210 hp. A better option would be finding a good one with the 4.7 V-8. The MPG difference between the two is not that great. The 3.7 is essentially a 4.7 with 2 cylinders loped off. They were good engines but when buying a used one you should find one in which the prior owner was diigent in changing the oil at proper intervals. These engines, if negleted, had a greater propensity for deadly sludge accumulation.

An older model with the 5.2 V8 would be a good choice or a first gen Durango with the 5.2 or 5.9V8 would also be good candidates.

Depending on your price range, a later model, 2011 and up, have the new Pentastar 3.6 V6 rated around 290 hp, which is fully capable for towing the 17Z.

If you look around you can find numerous acceptable tow vehicles for the 17Z without spending a chunk of change, with decent dependable units from $5K and up.

[go wild]

I had a '97 GC with the 220HP 5.2L V8. It towed the 17Z ok, but I sure wouldn't want a smaller engine. I upgraded to a '07 Commander (same platform as GC) with a 330HP hemi....huge improvement in towing performance and the same gas mileage, 15 around town and 10-11 towing. My brother-inlaw has an '08 GC with the V6 and he gets 15 mpg around town too, so don't count on the smaller engine for better mpg.