2012 Grand Cherokee Fuse Diagram
Many accessories are definitely cheaper ex-USA but freight can be expensive. Why not try:
Beware of exceeding the 68kg roof loading...There has been several cases where the roof has cracked due to flexing on rough corrugated roads. This can be an expensive exercise requiring removal of air bags & roof lining to repair cracks.
Some diesels engines can suffer from what is known as "Diesel Runaway" where releasing the accelerator or turning the engine off fails to slow or shutdown the engine and it reaches or exceeds the RPM redline. If this occurs when mobile then life and limb can be at serious risk; so how do you stop a diesel that does??...If moving, select neutral and bring the vehicle to a stop where safe to do so. When stationary, cut off engine fuel supply or air supply if possible or alternatively use a CO2 fire extinguisher and discharge it into the engine air intake.....Another cause can be engine oil getting to into the combustion chamber via faulty turbo seals and the engine runs on this oil rather than its diesel fuel; in this case restricting air supply is the only solution...All vehicles should carry a CO2 extinguisher so if you don't have one regardless of petrol or diesel, it's good advice to have one>in your vehicle for off road use where grass or debris can build up around hot exhausts components with the potential of causing a serious fire....Also valuable if you do experience engine runaway with the engine over revving and in danger of destroying itself and seriously injuring you or bystanders.
Under no circumstances try to restart the engine. Check that the engine will turn using the fan belt or a socket spanner fitted to the nut on the front crankshaft pulley. If the engine still won't turn, the chances are you have water in the cylinders. Since water doesn't compress, a Hydrolock (hydrostatic lock) has occurred .
Experiencing difficulty starting your CRD in cold weather? The problem most likely will be malfunctioning glow plugs or the glow plug control module which controls glow plug temperatures.In warm and dry weather, the diesel engine will start even if one glow plug is defective and all other plugs preheat. Apart from difficult starting and knocking during start, faulty glow plugs or control module will log OBD fault codes (DTC) and can inhibit DPF active regeneration.
Glow Plug Control Units (Beru )
Glow Plug Diagnostics (Beru )
"Knocking during cold-start of a diesel engine is caused by an increased ignition delay when the engine is cold. The fuel ignites all of a sudden and the engine knocks. pre-heating and post- heating of glow plugs ensure that the engine reaches the operating temperature quicker. This preserves the engine, results in a quieter engine running and prevents knocking. The fuel will then be burnt more evenly and more completely. More energy is thus released and the combustion chamber temperature will increase quicker."
To test the glow plugs, measure each plug to ground (multimeter on resistance) which should read in the order of .7 to 1.3 ohms.
If all test ok then check and replace the glow plug control module if faulty. Glow plugs are also very sensitive to voltage drop in the wiring
system which may require replacement. Some suggest battery load testing first before replacing glow plugs.
Warning:
- To avoid irreparable damage, do not test the glow plugs with a 12 Volt source under any circumstance
- Cover the glow plug thread with a recommended anti-seize grease before fitting to enable easier removal and prevent corrosion;
Regeneration (I think):
"Where exhaust temperatures necessary for regeneration are high enough Passive Regeneration of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) normally takes place automatically if the vehicle is used for medium to long journeys or driven hard. If the PCM detects that the vehicle is being driven in a way that passive regeneration is ineffective or higher than normal exhaust back-pressure is detected, an active regeneration cycle is initiated by in-cylinder post injection or direct injection of fuel into the exhaust stream to raise the temperature of the filter to around 600Cto oxidise the Particulate Matter (PM) build up. Driving conditions such as long down-hill descents, city driving and frequent short trips, may not produced sufficient heat to fully oxidised all accumulated PM. If 45% restricted (depends on the vehicle) or more then active regeneration starts and the engine management system increases exhaust temp by various means including engine timing & high fuel injection to burn out the PM. This can happen as often a 400km..A message is sometimes displayed indicating the burn out progress..You can often smell or see a puff of white exhaust smoke as the PM burns."
If all regeration attempts fail to clear the DPF, PM will eventually accumulate to a point where the vehicle will go into limp mode to prevent engine damage. Immediate service by your Jeep dealer is now essential to diagnose the cause (could be a sensor) and may require forced regeration (limited number of times) or DPF replacement. DPF technology is not that good for short start stop driving like city traffic or very short runs where passive regeneration isn't effective. If mostly city driving then where possible keep the revs up (probably on hills) for several km to raise exhaust temp (around 600C) or travel about 20mins above 60km/h usually does it.
Best use high cetane rating diesel fuel and not the lower cetane used by trucks. The quality of the fuel & driving style will determine the number of regenerations.
WARNING!
Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas where your exhaust system can contact anything that can burn. A hot exhaust system can start a fire if flammable material such as grass or leaves comes into contact with your exhaust syst
Anywhere the quality fuel is uncertain, the use of additional fuel filtration is the best way to avoid fuel related failure. Don't rely entirely on the vehicles OE fuel filtering system to protect the engine and fuel system components from suspect fuel.
Why?:
Water in diesel fuel can cause major damage to your engine and fuel system (expensive) which is not covered by your vehicle's warranty or by most insurances. When remote touring, refuelling with water contaminated fuel is an ever-present issue; damage from which can be avoided by installation of a quality brand fuel water separator filtration system. Most fuel water filters have a warning that the filter is approaching full and must be drained ASAP. Visual inspection of the filter bowl on a regular basis is also good practice
Quick Reference Metric Fuel Usage Chart
Unfortunately the new Trailhawk rather than show average fuel usage as litres/100km does so as km/litre. This chart maybe handy when driving rather than doing quick conversions on the fly.
WK2 Transmissions
Years | Model | Engines |
2011 - 2013 | W5A580 5-speed automatic | 3.0, 3.6 L |
2012 - 2013 | 6.4 L | |
2011 | 545RFE 5-speed automatic | 5.7 L |
2012 - 2013 | 65RFE 6-speed automatic | |
2014 - on | 845RE 8-speed automatic | 3.6 L |
2014 - on | 8HP70 8-speed automatic | 3.0, 5.7, 6.4L |
Chrysler Group LLC initially received the 8HP 8-speed automatic transmissions from the ZF Getriebe GmbH plant in Saarbrucken, Germany which they now produce under licence in the USA at the 845RE & 8HP70 variants for the MY14 Jeep WK2 Grand Cherokee
About the ZF 8HP eight speed automatic transmission
Transmission Temperature
What should your transmission temperatures be under various driving conditions ?? This is not that easy to find exact information on. Running temperatures are heavily dependent on speed, loads and ambient temperatures but as a general guide for the 2014 WK2 3L CRD then:
Driving Conditions | Temp (C) | Comments |
Highway Driving | 87 - 90 | Depends on speed (* @ 27C ambient) |
City Traffic | 86 - 89 | Depends on stop/start (* @ 27C ambient) |
Optimum | 88 - 89 | Constant unloaded driving after warm up (*) |
Warm Up Highway | 89 | Approx 45 min at 110km/h (* @ 27C ambient) |
Warm Up City | 89 | Approx 20 - 30 min depends on traffic (* @ 27C ambient) |
1900kg Towing | 89 -92 | Hill & highway - various speeds (! @ up to 32C ambient) |
Heavy Towing | 92 + | ?? Probably off-road, hill & traffic as well (**) |
High Temperature | 110 + | ?? Over heating protection starts (**) |
Over Temperature | 120 + | ?? Engine power is reduced (**) |
RED LINE | 130 | Stop & allow transmission to cool ***(owner's manual) |
Due to lack of available (??) data this is a guide only
* Tests were done with no load, UNeek bullbar & Warn winch with round LED spotlights causing some air flow restrictions
! Test done with roof rack & cargo bay loaded, 2 tonne offroad caravan & full fuel load (168Ltr) with the above accessories
** Data not confirmed due to lack of official information
- Stop vehicle - do not turn engine off
- Shift transmission into Neutral (?? see Note)
- Idle engine or faster until transmission cools down
Quote:
- "The 8HP transmission family is such an efficient transmission there is a need for an auxiliary heater to keep the transmission oil at the proper temperature, about 80C" Chrysler MasterTech Update & Service Best Practice -?? Not sure how this auxiliary heater relates to hot weather operation and possibly only refers to cold climates .
- "Additionally, lower viscosity transmission fluid is used resulting in improved transmission efficiency and fuel economy improvements especially during cold weather or vehicle start-up. The 8HP45 & 8HP70 are 'fill for life' not requiring oil changes during normal driving conditions."- www.wk2jeeps.com
Note:
- There is some difference between EVIC and Telltale procedures. The EVIC message (as per manual) reads "Trans Hot Stop Safely Shift To Park Wait to Cool" but the "Transmission Temperature Warning Telltale" outlines the cool down procedure. Take your pick.
- High temperatures operation will degrade the transmission oil fast, severely reducing it's life and ability to protect the transmission.
Caution:
Chrysler strongly recommends against the addition of any fluids to the transmission, other than those listed below
- ATF+4 MUST always be used in vehicles that were originally filled with ATF+4.
- ATF+4 is compatible with ATF+3 and can be used to top off vehicles that currently have ATF+2 or ATF+3.
- DO NOT use ATF+2 or ATF+3 to top off vehicles that have ATF+4 fluid
- 845RE & 8HP70 - Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF (p/n 68157995AA), Shell L12108Chrysler version of 8HP45 is called 845RE.)
Head Lights - Driving Lights
The right hand side headlight 12 pin connector viewed front on: A1 top right hand pin and A12 bottom hand pin.
Pin | Wire | Function |
A1 | WT/DB | Headlamp leveling sensor rear signal |
A2 | WT | Headlamp leveling sensor 5 volt supply |
A3 | BK/LG | Right headlamp return signal |
A4 | WT/LG | Can C Bus (+) |
A5 | WT/TN | Right low beam driver |
A6 | WT/VT | Lin bus lighting sig rt |
A7 | WT/DG | Headlamp leveling sensor front signal |
A8 | WT/BR | Headlamp leveling sensor return |
A9 | WT/GY | Right high beam driver |
A10 | WT/LB | Can C Bus (-) |
A11 | PK/YL | Fused ignition run control output |
A12 | WT/OR | Lin lighting |
Check your vehicle VIN first for possible variations between models
How Bi-Xenon Headlights Work
Bumper and Headlight Removal
Headlight Wiring Diagram (2014) - Small because of diagram width so zoom required to view
The law on fog & driving lights:
LED Driving Lights & Light Bar
A brief look at HID vs LED Driving lights:
- HID (high intensity discharge) driving lights currently are the best long distance beam choice for 4x4 use with pencil beams extending out to around 1km
- HID lights require ballast units either internal or external to supply a high voltage to trigger an arc discharge between two electrodes in a sealed bulb.
- HID lights are 20 % efficient while halogen lights are in the order of 5% efficiency; with both types most of the electrical power is dissipated as heat.
- LEDs are very efficient drawing little power, are extremely resistant to vibrations, have the advantage of exceptional long life and low heat dissipation.
- LED driving lights are ideal for use in rural areas and produce an intense bright white (determined by colour temperature) with spread beams illuminating out to 150m and up to about 550m depending on light output (Lumens).
- LED Light Bars often combine both spread beam & pencil beams
LEDs used for lighting are commonly labeled with their light output in lumens and colour temperature.
- Lumens (lm) is the SI derived unit of luminous flux, a measure of the total "amount" of visible light emitted by a light source.
- Lux is defined as lumens (the total amount of light that a bulb is capable of generating) per square metre; eg if all the light from a 1000 lumen source is entirely focused on a 1m square area, the intensity at any point would be 1000 lux
- Colour temperature is an important characteristic of visible light and is stated as units of absolute temperature - degrees Kelvin (K). Colour temperatures over 4,000K are considered cool colours (bluish white), while lower colour temperatures (2,700 - 3,000 K) are warm colours (yellowish white through red).
- What are Cree LEDs? Simple answer is that they are a brand name for high quality power LEDs manufactured by Cree Inc a market-leading innovator of LED lighting. Because their LEDs are efficient and reliable they are sometimes used as a defacto measure to compare LEDs manufactured by other companies and are frequently used as power LEDs in many 4WD driving lights. This doesn't mean that other brands are inferior but does seem to assure a high level of reliability and quality as far as the power LEDs modules go. Other electronic and hardware components used in 4WD driving light design and construction may vary considerably between driving light brands. Best to read all the reviews.
- Width and area are more useful parameters for 4x4 driving lights; colour temperatures determines the quality of light emitted and height of the light pattern are important factors when choosing driving lights. A very high Lux rating for greater distance may only produce a narrow beam which can leave blind spots on road bends etc. while spread beams will light up road edges highlighting wild life, but are not suitable for long distances. The solution is to have a combination of both spread and pencil beam driving lights.
From Minor Modification Queensland Dept Transport and Main Roads
Headlights:
Retro-fitting High Intensity Gas-Discharge (HID) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlight assemblies to vehicles not
originally offered with the technology is generally not permissible as they do not comply with the ADRs because
- no headlight self-levelling device is fitted
- no self-cleaning function is fitted
- the design of the headlamp reflector is compatible with the bulb (the light is not focused correctly).
Main (high) Beam Headlamps
The fitting of additional main beam headlamps is permitted without specific approval as they are mentioned under the
ADRs and the Transport Operations (Road Use Management - Vehicle Standards and Safety) Regulation 2010. These
additional lights may be fitted at any height above the ground but must only be fitted to the front of the vehicle.
Driving Lamps
The fitting of driving lamps (including LED light bars) is acceptable without specific approval, provided they meet the requirements provided in the Australian Design Rules If you like a torturous read then look at Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 13/00
ADR13 has been revised several times since introduction and will undoubtedly be again in the future. Section 7.3.2.1 is the biggest recent change impacting 4X4 owners. The ADRs used to permit 'pairs of two or four it now simply states 'up to a maximum of four'. One LED light bar now classed as one light. As for mounting light bars on the vehicle's roof, the ADRs don't rule on this so at this stage each state decides if it's illegal or not. States that currently do not allow are NSW & WA . Always check before driving interstate rather than be fined.
Basically (as of 26/06/2016) :
- Lamps should be installed symmetrically in pairs to the front of the vehicle.
- One light bar centre mounted is allowed
- A maximum of four lights (includes fog lamps in a bullbar if not originally fitted to the vehicle)
- Must not protrude beyond the normal profile of the vehicle or bar
- Must not block the driver's field of view
- Light produced must not cause the driver discomfort either directly or by reflection.
- Must only come on when the main-beam (high beam) headlamps are used, and must automatically turn off when the main-beam headlamps are turned off.
Pay particular attention to 'up to a maximum of four' which refers to additional lights and includes fog lamps in a bullbar if the vehicle wasn't originally fitted with them. Also light bars mounted above bullbars will certainly earn you a defect notice if they obstruct the drivers view or protrude beyond the vehicles profile
Daytime Running Lamps and Fog Lamps
The fitting of daytime running lamps and/or fog lamps is acceptable without specific approval, provided they meet the requirements provided in the ADRs
Now what to do when lifting a vehicle!!..Obviously lifting is going to lengthen the low beam illuminated distance to the point where they will dazzle on coming traffic and cause the driver to flash their headlight in annoyance. Conversely too low is dangerous. If this is the case then low beam realignment is essential and a legal requirement.
Aiming using a 10 metre wall: This method is mainly used today for vehicle with headlights higher than 140cm but in the absence of expensive professional optical beam-setter equipment, it can be used to achieve excellent results as a DIY headlight alignment procedure:
See WK2 Headlight Alignment Guide
Adjustment Screw
Steel Suspension Lift Kits
Read this first About MC & MA Classification
2016 Suspension changes (effects certain lifts)
Minor Modification Queensland Dept Transport and Main Roads - Vehicle Standards Instruction G19.1:
The raising of a vehicle's suspension (coil spring suspension) is permitted without specific approval, provided:
- at least two thirds of the original suspension travel in either direction is maintained
- coil springs remain in locating seats on full suspension droop
- the normal relationship between the front and rear suspension heights is not unduly affected
- replacement springs have the same or greater load capacity as the original springs
- a vehicle fitted with Electronic Stability Control (commonly known as ESC) is not modified if the operation of the ESC is affected, unless the ESC system is adjusted accordingly.
Steel Suspension:
Rocky Road recommend suspension lifts be capped at 2.5"as not to exceed factory tolerances. They have tested a variety of tyre sizes and found that 33" OD tyres would fit with minor trimming of the inner guard felt liners. A +30mm offset rim is required (OE offset + 56.4mm - 25.4mm) instead of their suggested 1"(25.4mm) spacers which are illegal on Australian roads.
QuadraLift Suspensions
For those who purchased an airbag suspension for your Jeep, unfortunately you will never be able to install a permanent lift system to your Jeep. They can lift and lower by pushing the buttons, but will never be able to install larger tyres (sic) since the suspension will always return to its original "stock height"
New Vehicle Measurements | |||
Ground Clearance (4x4 only) | Laredo (mm) | Limited (mm) | (Inch) |
Standard Steel Suspension | 218 | 218 | 8.6 |
Quadra-Lift, normal ride height | 205 | 205 | 8.1 |
Quadra-Lift, Off-road I | 238 | 238 | 9.4 |
Quadra-Lift, Off-road II | 271 | 271 | 10.7 |
4x4 Standard Steel Suspension | ||
Ground Clearance | Inch | mm |
Front Axle | 9.3 | 236 |
Rear Axle | 10.0 | 253 |
Fuel Tank | 9.6 | 243 |
Some Lift Kits
- Read this first: About MC & MA Classification to be sure there are no legal implications
- First measure front and back before getting your lift installed so you can verify the lifted height..Measure from the lower edge of the wheel arch trim to the exact center of the CB cap...Check again before leaving the installer.
- Measurements front & rear should be done from the inner trim on the wheel arch to the centre of the wheel hub directly in line with the centre of the wheel. The following image is an indicative measurement for a new Laredo with steel suspension. Note that some variation between same model vehicles can be expected in manufacture.
Heights of Various Models
What ARB say in their brochure:
"A 50mm lift was achieved and 2 progressive rate spring designs were created to cater for medium loads and constants loads of 200kgs. As the Jeep WK2 is available with an optional tow pack, 2 different designs needed to be created. The tow pack option introduces a Nivomat (self levelling) rear shock absorber which has a different top pin mount and different extended and compressed lengths. With 2 different shock designs and 2 springs to cater for loading options, this resulted in 4 different shock options for the rear. Please note when replacing Nivomat shocks, you must fit the appropriate OME spring. To identify whether a vehicle has the standard fitment rear shock or Nivomat shock, the outer body diameter will need to be measured."
- Standard fitment: 51mm
- Nivomat: 63mm
Headlight Alignment After Lifting
After fitting a lift kit there is every possibility that on Low Beam your headlights will blind on coming traffic. For safety reasons it is important that your headlights meets ADR alignment standards..The solution is to readjust your headlights
Quadra-Lift Air Suspension
LLAMS
The LLAMS electronic air suspension height controller kit provides the ability to raise the vehicle by approx 32mm/1.25" or 55mm/2.2" whilst at normal ride height, therefore without speed limitations, to allow improved ground & bump stop clearance when travelling off road on high crown gravel roads or other off road conditions where extra clearance is required.
Approx Height Changes:
- Low: -22mm/-32mm depending on vehicle setting at calibration.
- Off: No change
- Medium: +32mm
- High: +55mm
- Using Llams high with OR1 will add approx 30mm to OR1
LLAMS Kit
Reduced Towing Maximum:
The WK2 CRD & 5.7L V8 can tow up to a maximum of 3500kg (see Note)...If the Nivomat self levelling shock absorbers (SLS) are replaced with standard shocks then the 3500kg towing maximum is downgraded (Note 3). Since most spring lift kits replace the OE Nivomat SLS with a standard type, check with the lift kit supplier first and ask if there is any detrimental effect on towing specifications.
Regardless of what lift kit you chose, if replacing the Nivomat SLS with standard shocks, you must replace the Nivomat springs as well otherwise they will sag noticeably under increased loads
Why different spring ratings for Nivomat system?...Because the Nivomat SLS share the load with coil springs and adjust for any load variation, the springs don't have to support all the load so are softer to provide a more comfortable ride at low loadings.
Is you wish to retain 3500 kg towing, keep the Nivomat SLS and fit Nivomat compatible rear springs rather than constant load springs used with standard shock absorbers. If towing is not your thing then this probably isn't an issue apart from ride comfort.
Note:
1. Jeep Australia issued a National Dealer Bulletin 72/2011 stating that a Weight Distribution Hitch is suitable for use with all available WK2 Grand Cherokee suspension systems and it is mandatory when towing an ATM above 2268kg.
2. Vehicle and caravan insurers' advice relating to a claim arising from an accident, is that you should comply with manufacturers recommendations at all times.
- Kerb Mass : the unladen mass of the vehicle unoccupied but including full fuel load & standard equipment
- Tare Mass (vehicle): the unladen mass of the vehicle unoccupied with standard equipment but excluding fuel (10 litres allowed)
- Tare Mass (Trailer): the unladen mass of the vehicle
- Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM): the maximum allowed mass of the vehicle including its load.
- Gross Combination Mass (GCM): the maximum allowed mass of a loaded vehicle (GVM) plus its loaded caravan/trailer (GTM)
- Gross Trailer Mass (GTM): the maximum allowed mass supported by the axle/s or wheels of a loaded caravan/trailer
- Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM): the total legal loaded mass of a caravan/trailer including the tow ball download weight (TBM)
- Tow Ball Mass (TBM) / Download Weight: the mass transferred by a caravan/trailer onto the rear of a tow vehicle
- Payload: any mass added to the Tare Mass of a vehicle or caravan/trailer.
- Maximum Towing Mass (MTM) : the maximum caravan/trailer weight (ATM) that a vehicle can legally tow (braked/non-braked)
- Maximum Towing Capacity (BTC): same as braked MTM
In the following text: caravans, camper trailers and all other towables are referred as trailers so:
GVM = Tare Mass + Maximum Payload (Vehicle) - includes any TBM when hitched to a trailer
ATM = Tare Mass + Maximum Payload (Trailer)
GTM = ATM - TBM
GCM = GVM + GTM
The question now is: how much can you really carry in your vehicle when towing at the maximum tow capacity specified by the manufacturer?
The true capability of a vehicle in practice is dictated by the GCM (often called GCVM), the vehicle's GVM plus trailer's GTM...Note that GTM is used instead of ATM ...GTM is different to ATM in that it does not include that part of the trailer's mass exerted on the vehicle's tow ball (TBM) when hitched up....TBM has be included in the tow vehicle's Payload i.e. more ball load weight then less the vehicle can carry. To determine what load you can actually carry when towing, simply subtract the vehicle Kerb Weight (or Tare) plus its rated tow capacity from the GCM. The result is the available payload i.e. the total of cargo plus accessories (bullbar, winch, roof racks, tow bar, etc.), driver and passenger weights - you may be surprised how little it is..When not towing the vehicle's payload capacity is at maximum, so what can be legally towed, when the vehicle is loaded to it's GVM??...This can be substantially lower than the vehicle's rated tow capacity...surprise surprise!!
Example: 2015 Ford Everest 4WD:
Towing and Vehicle Mass | Ambient | Trend | Titanium |
ATM (Towing Capacity kg) | 3000 | 3000 | 3000 |
GCM (kg) | 5800 | 5800 | 5800 |
GVM (kg) | 3100 | 3100 | 3100 |
Kerb Weight (kg) | 2370 | 2407 | 2495 |
Payload (kg) | 730 | 693 | 605 |
Using: GTM = GCM-GVM
= 5800 - 3100 = 2700kg
ATM = 2700 + 300 = 3000kg (TBM =10% of ATM = 300kg )
Now since TBM is part of the GVM when towing:
Available Payload = 730 - 300 = 430kg (Ambiente)
Loading up:
Bullbar & Winch 100kg
Available Payload = 430 - 100 = 330kg for passengers, cargo & accessories.
Add roof rack, and aux fuel tank (full) say total 125kg (no allowance made for the tow hitch ??kg)
Available Payload = 205kg for passengers and effects
Assume passengers (2) = 150kg
Available Payload = 55kg
Example: 2019 Ford Everest Trend 4WD:
Towing and Vehicle Mass | 2.0L Bi-Turbo |
ATM (Towing Capacity kg) | 3100 |
GCM (kg) | 5900 |
GVM (kg) | 3100 |
Kerb Weight (kg) | 2387 |
Payload (kg) | 713 |
Using: GTM = GCM-GVM
= 5900 - 3100 = 2800kg
ATM = 2790 + 310 = 3100kg (TBM =10% of ATM = 310kg )
Now since TBM is part of the GVM when towing:
Available Payload = 713 - 310 = 403k
So while the BTC is higher the available payload is lower.
Example: 2014 -2016 4x4 3L Diesel Laredo (no GCM specified)
Towing and Vehicle Mass | Laredo 4x4 3L Diesel |
ATM (Towing Capacity kg) | 3500 |
GVM (kg) | 2949 |
Tare (kg) | 2267 |
Using : GCM = GVM + ATM - TBM
= 2949kg + 3500kg = 6449kg - 350kg = 6099kg
GTM = ATM - TBM
= 3500 - 350 = 3150kg
Payload = GVM - Tare
= 2949 - 2267 = 682kg
Now since TBM is part of the GVM when towing:
Available Payload = 682- 350 = 332kg
Loading up:
Bullbar & Winch 100kg
Available Payload = 332- 100 = 232kg for passengers, cargo, accessories & tow hitch
Add roof rack, rock rails and aux fuel tank (full) say total 155kg (no allowance made for the tow hitch ??kg)
Available Payload = 77kg for passengers and effects
Example: 2017 4x4 3L Diesel Trailhawk (GCM now specified)
Towing and Vehicle Mass | Laredo 4x4 3L Diesel |
ATM (Towing Capacity kg) | 3500 |
GCM (kg) | 6099 |
GVM (kg) | 2949 |
Tare (kg) | 2340 |
Using : GCM = GVM +ATM - TBM
= 2949kg + 3500kg - 350kg = 6099kg
Payload = GVM - Tare
= 2949 - 2340 = 609kg
Now since TBM is part of the GVM when towing:
Available Payload = 609 - 350 = 259kg
Loading up:
Bullbar & Winch = 100kg
Available Payload = 259 - 100 = 159 kg for passengers, cargo & accessories
Add roof rack, rock rails and aux fuel tank (full) say = 140kg
Available Payload = 19kg for passengers and cargo
So the solution is not to tow 3500kg but something like 2000kg would give a marginal payload of 169kg for passengers and maybe some cargo if the aux tank is full.
Note:
- Trailhawk tare is heavier because of bash plates, Quadra-Drive & Quadra-Lift
- Kerb Weight is the Tare Mass plus a full tank of fuel and without any accessories fitted
WK2 Jeep Grand Cherokee Weight & Towing Specifications (kg)
Maximum Towing Capacity of some popular 4x4 utes:
- Toyota Hilux SR5: BTC: 3500kg (manual) 3200kg (auto) - GVM: 3000kg - GCM: 5850kg
- Ford Ranger Wildtrak: BTC: 3500kg - GVM: 3200kg - GCM: 6000kg
- Mitsubishi Triton Exceed: BTC: 3100kg - GVM: 2900kg - GCM: 5885kg
- Holden Colorado Z71: BTC: 3500kg - GVM: 3150kg - GCM: 6000kg
- Nissan Navara STX: BTC: 3500kg - GVM: 2910kg - GCM: 5910kg
- Isuzu D-Max: BTC: 3500kg - GVM: 2950kg - GCM: 5950kg
- Mazda BT-50: BTC: 3500kg - GVM: 3200kg - GCM: 6000kg
- Volkswagen Amarok: BTC: 3000kg - GVM: 3040kg - GCM: 5550kg
- Volkswagen Amarok V6: BTC: 3000kg - GVM: 3080kg - GCM: 6000kg
"The rated tow figure of the Ranger is 3500kg, while the GCM is 6000kg – much the same as many of the dual-cabs. This means the maximum car weight has now dropped to 2500kg – a payload decrease of 700kg. That means the maximum weight you can carry in a Ford towing a 3500kg caravan is just 300kg. That's not much more than two healthy adults, a pet dog and a full tank of fuel" (by Ron Moon 4x4 Australia Sep 15, 2016)"
Conclusion:
It's a pity the salesperson did not tell you the truth when asked about towing payload In other words GCM doesn't always equal GVM + BTC (maximum ATM) so do your sums and stay legal.
Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH)
The official Chrysler figures for the Grand Cherokee diesel are 350kg on the ball max and 3500kg trailer max and that Chrysler requires a Weight Distribution Hitch for towing loads which exceed 2268-2270kg. The 2kg difference depends on which set of specifications.
Don't get caught in the "big van" towing trap
Generally speaking the the TBM should be within 10% of the total trailer weight. Assuming that you wish to tow at the vehicle's towing maximum then the TBM would be about 350kg which has to be accounted for as part of your GVM (all accessories to be included), this could mean your vehicle and caravan combination has crossed into illegal weight territory without a driver or passengers or any payload you need to carry aka the 3500kg towing trap.
Do you homework and don't ignored the limits i.e. GVM,GCM,GTM & ATM when buying your caravan/camper. In practice, what you think you can tow may not be what you can without exceeding manufacture's specifications. The choice is between a fully loaded vehicle with all the accessories or the heaviest caravan/trailer. So if you tow a big caravan, then don't expect to carry a full load (all occupants & accessories) in your vehicle. Very few vehicles can actually tow at their maximum rated capacity when loaded at their GVM. Of course you can juggle between payload and caravan/trailer weights to find a combination that suits your purpose. Exceeding a vehicle's GVM will most certainly void manufacturer's warranty and your insurance as well as illegal implicationTo reduce vehicle load to stay within the vehicle's GVM, make use of your caravan/trailer's GTM (do not exceed) and distribute load evenly to avoid trailer instability.
WK2 Grand Cherokee Specifications (Australia)
Towing Limit Question??
Quote:
"If you are on a weighbridge with your tow vehicle hitched up to the caravan/trailer and are all loaded up this will give you the Gross Combined Mass (GCM). If you have the loaded caravan/trailer unhitched (on it's jockey wheel) with its wheels on the weighbridge this will be the Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM). With the van/trailer hitched to the tow vehicle with only the van/trailer's wheels on the weighbridge this will give you the Gross Trailer Mass (GTM). The difference between the ATM and GTM will give you the Tow Ball Mass (TBM)" - (from (lets-getaway.com)
Where speed limits or conditions are such that the vehicle can be driven at high speeds, maintaining correct tyre inflation pressure is very important. Increased tyre pressure and reduced vehicle loading may be required for high-speed vehicle operation. High speed driving with your vehicle under maximum load is dangerous. The added strain on your tyres could cause them to fail. Do not drive a vehicle loaded to the maximum capacity at continuous speeds above 120 km/h.
Manual Park Release
To move or recover a disabled vehicle when the transmission can not be shifted out of PARK (e.g. a flat battery or if the engine won't start), located at the rear of the centre console storage bin is a Manual Park Release.
Note:
- Ignition Park Interlock
This vehicle is equipped with an Ignition Park Interlock which requires the transmission to be in PARK before the ignition can be turned to the OFF mode. This helps the driver avoid inadvertently leaving the vehicle without placing the transmission in PARK. This system also locks the transmission in PARK whenever the ignition is in the OFF mode.
- Brake Transmission Shift Interlock System
This vehicle is equipped with a Brake Transmission Shift Interlock system (BTSI) that holds the transmission gear selector in PARK unless the brakes are applied. To shift the transmission out of PARK, the engine must be running and the brake pedal must be pressed. The brake pedal must also be pressed to shift from NEUTRAL into DRIVE or REVERSE when the vehicle is stopped or moving at low speeds
WARNING:
Activating the Manual Park Release will allow your vehicle to roll away if it is not firmly secured by applying the "foot operated" parking brake or tow rope/recovery strap it to a tree/post or another vehicle to prevent the vehicle from rolling unintentionally. Activating the Manual Park Release on an unsecured vehicle could lead to serious injury or death for those in or around the vehicle.
Note:
- It is necessary to pull up the orange tether strap until two "clicks" are heard. Nothing happens until after the second "click".
- If the engine is running (due to BTSI) it may not be possible to turn it off unless the Manual Park Release is disengaged .
- The vehicle cannot be moved with the transmission gear selector in Neutral with the engine off due to Ignition Park Interlock.
To Jump Start A Disabled Vehicle
Review all Cautions
Connect cable clamps as follows:
- on the booster vehicle turn off all accessories, activate the parking brake, place the automatic transmission in PARK and turn the ignition OFF.
- on disabled vehicle, place gear selector in park or neutral, activate park brake and turn off all accessories.
- connect RED clamp to positive terminal (+) on the booster vehicle.
- on the disable vehicle connect the RED jumper cable clamp to positive (+) terminal,
- connect BLACK clamp to negative terminal (-) on the booster vehicle.
- on the disabled vehicle connect BLACK jumper cable clamp to engine ground
- start the engine in the vehicle which has the booster battery, let the engine idle a few minutes, then start the engine in the vehicle with the discharged battery.
Caution:
- to prevent an electrical arc DO NOT allow clamps at opposite end of jumper cables to touch when connected to the battery.
- if the cause of starting problem on disabled vehicle is severe, damage to booster vehicle charging system can result.
- It is very important not to use the B+ connection at the TIPM when jump starting the vehicle - use only the positive jump post that is located in the wiper plenum on the right hand side of the vehicle or the 150 amp fuse in the fuse block that feeds the TIPM will blow-
- do not crank starter motor on disabled vehicle for more than 15 seconds, starter will overheat and could fail.
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) is the gateway or distribution box for nearly the entire electrical system. Its main purpose is to take the commands from various switches and other modules and send those commands to the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN), a vehicle bus standard designed to allow devices to communicate with each other without a host computer.
Disconnect cable clamps as follows:
- disconnect BLACK cable clamp from engine ground on disabled vehicle.
- on the booster vehicle disconnect BLACK cable clamp from battery negative terminal then disconnect RED cable clamp from battery positive terminal.
- disconnect RED cable clamp from battery positive terminal on disabled vehicle.
Reference: Jump Starting (pdf)
The pros and cons about adding airbag suspension assist kits:
Adding airbag (aka air spring) suspension load assist kits will not change the GVM, GCM & maximum rear axle load rating of your vehicle (see above discussion about Towing & Loading). Vehicle manufacturers will specify a maximum weight allowable for each axle. So even if your total weight is under the specified GVM, you may still be over an individual axle's maximum load rating. You should never exceed your vehicle's Max Weight Ratings under any circumstance. Airbags simply increase your ability to level your vehicle with heavy loads.
Some problems I've had:
Airbags look like a good idea and when inflated function well..No worries if the airbags stay inflated and often do...This didn't happen on my last trip up the OTT Cape York last November (2106)..One airbag went down with a leak at the airline coupling (after all the articulation on creek crossings - probably to Bathurst Bay) and wouldn't hold air so I had to let both down to keep the back from leaning and slamming down on one side ..Problem without the airbags inflated on the OTT, the rear suspension continually bottomed out and the tyres eventually ripped into the inner guard liner..The combination of medium load springs and OME nitro shock absorbers with the larger diameter 265/65R18s tyres turned out to be a mistake ...Why??...These medium load springs need the OE Nivomat shocks to share the load and provide a bump stop function which the standard shocks don't do. Relying on airbags to do this isn't wise..Also the airbags I had installed were for standard height suspension so not that effective with my 50mm lift kit.. I have since procured new airbags 25mm longer than standard to compensate for the raised vehicle height and reinstalled the Nivomat shocks.. Custom made 30mm poly spacers placed under the standard airbags would probably work with a 50mm lift also.
Now this presents a decision in that you need to work out what your needs really are: medium load springs or 300kg springs..If you tow and load up then 300kg springs are probably what you need but may ride a rough when unloaded..Medium load springs are probably too soft for towing a caravan + cargo (see above discussion on Reduced Towing Maximum) unless you keep the Nivomat shocks to share some of the load..If the Nivomat shock absorbers are replaced (ie with suspension lift kits), Polyair or Airbagman (Firestone Coil-Rite) airbags can level the vehicle providing they are suitable size for your suspension height but don't rely on them as I found out..Reliability off road can be an issue as per my experience...Be good if airbags had pressure monitors to detect failure..Maybe an On Board Air Control Kit option is worth looking at but probably no help if an airbag develops a leak - I'll let you be the judge on the pros & cons.
Rock Rails
Mopar Rock Rail/Sliders
Uneek Rock Sliders
Rocky_Road Rock Sliders
Note: OE mud flaps will not fit with Mopar rock rails on so will require some trimming: See Trimming Template
If you do decide to fit UNeek sliders remember they are 20mm too short so there will be a 20mm gap either at the front or the rear depending on how they are installed. If the sliders are installed towards the front (instructions say to the rear) in order to neatly fit front mud flaps then there will be a 20mm gap at the rear as well the upper body panel.
One solution is to cover this upper panel gap with rubber strip shaped to fit and glued to the upper slider surface and to fabricate a 20mm rear extensions from either steel or aluminium. See UNeek Rock Slider Installation Issues. Alternatively if front mud flaps are not needed and the sliders are installed as per instructions then a similar extension can be fabricated for the 20mm front gap if considered unsightly..Pity the Mopar rock rail/sliders are no longer available and the UNeek Sliders are made in this fashion.
Note: The following is for a forward installation only
|
Rear Slider End 20mm Extension
Trimmed To Fit UNeek Slider | Sill Bracket To Secure Mud Flap Tab |
Roof Racks
The 68kg (150lb) is theMaximum OE load specification and MUST NOT BE EXCEEDED - Read Safety Notes
Roof Mounting Nutsert Roof Cracked
Rhino state when used off road you must reduce the maximum roof load by 1/3 - Rhino Rack Heavy Duty Crossbar Maximum Roof Load. Rocky Road, GOBI & Front Runner do increase roof load limit by replacing the OE roof rails with stronger mounting systems - refer to their sites for specifications. UNeek specifications are: Caged rack is rated to 150kg dynamic and 300kg static (evenly distributed & Slim line rack is rated to 125kg dynamic and 250kg static (evenly distributed) by use of steel mounting brackets which divert the load off the top buttons and relocate it to the welded seam on the roof join for far better load capacity.
Mopar Installation
Rocky Road Crossbar Kit
GOBI Stealth Roof Rack
Rhino Roof Rack
UNeek Roof Rack
WARNING :
When fitting a new roof rack system where OE roof rails have to be removed and replaced, before fitting the new roof rails be sure the end nutserts (rivnuts) normally hidden under the plastic end covers, are thoroughly cleaned. Unless this is done then when fixing any new rail system, the screws may bind in the threads causing the nutserts to spin making it almost impossible to extract the screws. If binding does occur then removing the interior lining at the rear to access and clamp the nutsert may be necessary. Also if dirt build up is present lower in the rivnuts then screws may be too long and will require shortening to firmly secure the new rails. This is especially concerning the rear nutserts where dirt buildup is common but not seen.. Another thing to watch for is rubbing through the painted surface cause but movement of the OE rails under load. This will need recoating before new rails are fitted to prevent future rusting
Need to increase roof loading??
Auxillary Batteries
There is only one battery that is best suited for safe mounting inside the WK2 for use as an auxillary battery to run fridges and other accessories - a deep cycle "Absorbed Glass Mat" (AGM) battery. AGM batteries are available as either Starting or Deep Cycle. The WK2 main battery is an AGM starting type.
Why??
Batteries come as either Starting, or Deep Cycle. Starting (cranking) batteries are designed to supply large current for a short period.. Deep cycle batteries are more suited to long slow power draw and slow recharge.
A good wet cell cranking battery will have a limited life when being used as an auxiliary battery A marine battery is a semi deep cycle battery will last longer than a standard wet cell battery. AGM totally sealed, transport class batteries don't require venting to the outside like wet batteries, so are ideally suited for mounting inside a 4WD. They are spill proof and therefore can be mounted at any angle. These batteries will accept a much higher charge current so will charge faster without damage and can be discharged much deeper than conventional deep cycles without major damage. They also have a very slow self discharge rate resulting in a longer shelf life. When fully charged, they can be stored for extended periods and conveniently recharged successfully.
Variable Voltage Alternators
In Australia, as of 2013, new vehicle shave to comply with the Euro 5 exhaust emissions standards and from 2017, the tougher Euro 6 standards. The ECU in these vehicles controls the alternator by monitoring its electrical loading. The ECU adjust the output voltage determined by load changes and in some cases can completely turn it off. These alternators are referred to as Variable Voltage Alternators. In brief from Redarc - New Vehicle Technology Can Affect Dual Battery System's Charging Performance.
In order to avoid costly ECU replacement and get your alternator working, you can simply bypass the internal Alternator Voltage Regulator Control Module using an External Voltage Regulator Conversion Kit -See:
Brief descriptions to the above links have been either summarised or extracted from those sites. Please refer to them for detailed information.
Wheels & Tyres
In order to understand wheels and tyre technology it is essential to first understand the terminology of wheel rims & the curious mix of both imperial (inches) and metric measurement used. Industry standard is to specify offset in millimeters whereas other measurements are normally in inches
Offset & Backspacing
Offset (ET) specifies where the hub mounting surface sits with respect to the centreline of the rim and is based on the overall width of the rim, not the stated width. Most rims are 1" (25.4mm) or wider than stated i.e. a 7.5" rim will actually measure 8.5". Changing the offset moves the rim in or out, changes the amount of mechanical leverage on axle and suspension components, wheel track and of course backspacing.
Rim offset can be one of three settings:
- Zero offset:The hub mounting surface is even with the centreline of the rim.
- Positive offset: The hub mounting surface is towards the front of the rim forward of the rim centreline.
- Negative offset: The hub mounting surface is towards the back of the rim behind the rim centreline . "Deep dish" wheels are typically negative offset. Too much negative offset can place stress on suspension and axle components resulting in premature failure.
Backspacing is the distance from the back edge of the rim (inboard flange) to the hub mounting surface and determines the amount of clearance between the wheel and suspension components. Backspacing is necessary to calculate where the rim's inner flange will sit with respect to suspension components. The hub mounting surface is always a fixed distance from these components so if the rim width is changed it will immediately affect these clearances as will changing the offset.
Calculations using rim width and backspacing for sufficient clearance will also determine offset relative to the centreline of the rim. Clearances will obviously be different from vehicle to vehicle. So when buying a rim, you'd specify rim PCD, rim diameter, width and ET (offset) e.g. 5x127mm 18x8" ET 56.4 mm. Note that ET is specified rather than backspacing.
Fitting 265/65R18LT Tyres
Read this first About MC & MA Classification
From 2015 to present WK2 Grand Cherokees are currently classified as MA passenger vehicle not off road use MCso:
MA-rated vehicles are more restricted in what tyres can legally be fitted, because of speed ratings & specifically to that which the manufacturer has specified on the compliance plate. You can't fit a tyre with a lower speed rating to an MA rated vehicle..Since there isn't any LT-construction, off-road tyres with high speed ratings currently available, then by the rules you'd be fitting an illegal tyre.
An LT265/65R18 tyre mounted on an OE alloy rim will fit in the cargo spare wheel well if turned the opposite way up allowing the lid to close level with the cargo bay floor. One modification is required though (shown in the following photos): the OE securing bolt has to be lengthened because of the way the larger tyre has to be seated to fit...An M14 x 2mm pitch x 200mm bolt with the hex head cut off is welded it into a close fitting steel tube and opposite end tapped and threaded with the original securing bolt screwed in and thread locked.
Note: 2x plastic storage bins have to be discarded
2014 Grand Cherokee 3.0Ltr CRD Laredo OE Wheels
Tyre Size | Rim Type | Rim | Width | Offset | Backspacing | CB | PCD | Nut Size |
265/60R18 | 8Jx18 ET56 | 18" | 8" | 56.4mm | 6.7" | 71.6mm | 5x127mm | M14x1.5 |
Backspacing to Offset Conversion
(Backspacing - (Rim Width/2 + Flange Width )) x 25.4 = offset
Offset to Backspacing Conversion
Offset Conversion:
- Positive offset rims: Rim Width/2 + Flange Width + offset x 0.03937 = backspacing
- Negative offset rims: Rim Width/2 + Flange Width + offset x 0.03937= backspacing
Where:
- rim width is measured between the inner edge of the rim flanges
- backspacing, rim width & rim flange width are in inches
- offset is normally quoted in mm as industry standard
- rim flange width is usually about 0.5" but check rim information
Offset, Rim Width, Backspacing Cross Reference | |||||||||
Offset (mm) | BS 4.25" | BS 4.5" | BS 4.75" | BS 5" | BS 5.25" | BS 5.5" | BS 5.75" | BS 6" | BS 6.7" |
RW 7.5" | 0 | 6 | 13 | 19 | 25 | 32 | 38 | 44 | 63 |
RW 8" | -6 | 0 | 6 | 13 | 19 | 25 | 32 | 38 | 56 |
RW 8.5" | -13 | -6 | 0 | 6 | 13 | 19 | 25 | 32 | 50 |
RW 9" | -19 | -13 | -6 | 0 | 6 | 13 | 19 | 25 | 44 |
RW 9.5" | -25 | -19 | -13 | -6 | 0 | 6 | 13 | 19 | 37 |
RW 10" | -32 | -25 | -19 | -13 | -6 | 0 | 6 | 13 | 31 |
Offset is calculated using the above Backspacing to Offset formula and truncated to nearest mm
Conversion Metric to Imperial to Metric
29" Tyre Diameter | 30" Tyre Diameter | 31" Tyre Diameter |
245/60R18 = 29.6x9.7R18 255/55R18 = 29x10R18 265/55R18 = 29.5X10.4R18 275/55R18 = 29.9x10.8R18 285/50R18 = 29.2x11.2R18 | 245/65R18 = 30.5x9.7R18 255/60R18 = 30x10R18 265/60R18 = 30.5x10.4R18 285/55R18 = 30.3x11.2R18 | 265/65R18 = 31.6x10.4R18 275/60R18 = 31x10.8R18 285/60R18 = 31.5x11.2R18 |
32" Tyre Diameter | 33" Tyre Diameter | 34" Tyre Diameter |
265/70R18 = 32.6x10.4R18 275/65R18 = 32.1x10.8R18 285/65R18 = 32.6x11.2R18 | 275/70R18 = 33.2x10.8R18 285/70R18 = 33.7x11.2R18 | 285/75R18 = 34.8x11.2R18 |
Possible Adverse Effects
If fitting larger tyres, as a rule of thumb you can expect to lose about 3.5% of torque/gear ratio for every 25mm of tyre size increase. Also stopping distance may be adversely affected and ESP/ESC could unnecessarily activate, reducing engine power and slowing the vehicle down and of course there may be legal and insurance issues as well so check your state vehicle modification laws and your insurance company first.
About Fitting Light Truck Tyres
Note:
Regardless of its type and size, every tyre's load capacity, durability, traction and handling depends on using the right inflation pressure for differing operating conditions. Since both too little and too much inflation pressure sacrifices some of the tyre's performance, maintaining the "right" inflation pressure is important. Every tyre has a maximum inflation pressure rating stamped on the sidewall somewhere. This is the maximum permissible pressure a tyre can be safely inflated to. It is not the pressure it should be inflate to for normal operation"
Caution:
- Size-for-size, Light Truck (LT) tyres require higher air pressures than Passenger (P-Metric) tyres. Failure to adjust air pressures as recommended will result in premature tyre failure due to excessive heat build-up..
- When choosing a tyre it's construction must be suitable to carry the vehicle's weight, dynamics and intended use. A wrong choice can and often lead to an accident possibly causing serious injury as well as insurance claims rejected. .
- The differences in load capacity and inflation pressures prohibits mixing the LT-metric tyres with P-metric tyres or visa versa. For maximum safety and performance, every tyre on a vehicle should be identical.
Ply Rating:
LT tyres can vary in construction ranging from 4 tread plies up to 8 or 10 ply. The more plies the better protection against stone damage but ride comfort will suffer. The number sidewall plies is a good measure of sidewall staking resistance. This is a good point to note that ply rating is no longer the number of actual physical plies in the tyre. For example a 10 ply equivalent rated tyre may only have 6 physical plies; 3 polyester, 2 steel and 1 Nylon and 3 polyester ply sidewalls
Laredo Original Equipment Placard
Load Index | 110 (1,060 kg) | Speed Index | H (210 km/h) |
Tyre Sizing:
International Standards Organization (ISO) Metric system combines the metric system with a service description. The service description specifies the load index and speed rating symbol. plus an optional letter for intended use or vehicle class for the tyre The ISO-Metric tyre sizing system: 265/65R18 122R
- 265 = tread width (mm)
- 65 = sidewall aspect ratio (%)
- R = radial ply
- 18 = rim diameter (inch)
- 122 = load rating (kg)
- R = speed rating (km/h
- P : Passenger Car
- LT: Light Truck
- ST: Special Trailer
- T : Temporary (restricted usage for "space-saver" spare wheels)
Passenger Tyre: P265/60R18 110H (P-Metric) Light Truck Tyre:
4WD owners will be confronted with 3 different LT tyre size descriptions
- LT265/65R18 122R (LT-Metric)
- 9.50R16LT (Light Truck Numeric)
- 9.50 = width (inch)
- R = radial ply
- 16 = rim diameter (inch)
- LT = light truck construction
3. 2x11.50R15LT (Light Truck High Flotation)
- 32 = diameter of tyre on rim (inch)
- 11.50 = width (inch)
- R = radial ply
- 15 = rim diameter (inch)
- LT = light truck construction
Note:
Flotation-sized tyres have wider overall width, as the size dimensions increase, than LT-Metric and LT-Numeric sizes as well as requiring wider rim widths..
LT vs. P-Metric
- P-metric tyres are typically lighter, with less rolling resistance and less aggressive tread designs than most LT tyres. Because of better ride qualities, fuel efficiency and less road noise, P-metric tyres are being supplied as original equipment on SUVs and many light trucks.
- LT tyre's heavier construction in sidewall, shoulder and tread areas are better for off-road rough-terrain use while P-Metric tyres are more suited to on-road use ratter than off-road. The confusing thing here is that many All Terrain (AT) tyres are actually P-Metric so are rated as % on-road and % off-road e.g. medium duty 70% Road & Sand, 30% Dirt & Mud or heavy duty 50% Road & Sand, 50% Dirt & Mud
- LT tyres do require higher pressures than P-metric tyres for a given Load Index. Operation at maximum load carrying capacity (Load Index) with lower than recommended air pressure will cause excessive overheating due to the heavier construction preventing heat dissipation.
Load | Speed | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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MY2014 WK2 Laredo Placard OE Tyres
WARNING:
Australian Design Rules (& State laws) allows for fitment of lower speed rated tyres on 4WD vehicles other than that specified on the vehicle's original equipment placard but must be no less than 'N" rated (140km/h)
US Tyre Ratings
UTQG ratings (Uniform Tyre Quality Grading) must be marked on the tyre's sidewall in the US tyres sold in Australia may not have a UTQG rating so it can be difficult to compare the quality of these tyres in terms of tread-wear, traction, & temperature.
Example: 150AB
- 150 = tread wear
- A = traction rating
- B = temperature
Where:
- Tread-wear rating is used to compare tyres. A tyre rated 150 should last 1/2 as long as one rated 300 but conditions of their use due to differences in road characteristics and climate will vary tyre wear rate.
- Traction rating AA, A, B, and C (highest to lowest) indicates a tyre's ability to stop in a straight line on wet surfaces but does apply to hydroplaning or to cornering traction.
- Temperature rating A, B and C (highest to lowest) indicates a tyre's ability to sustain high temperatures which cause tyres to wear quickly or in extreme conditions, sudden failure.
Date of Manufacture
All tyres are stamped with the date of manufacture either three digits for pre-2000 or four digits for after 2000
The Correct Air Pressure??
Under-inflation is the biggest destroyer of LT tyres while over-inflation increases risk of punctures, wear and decreased ride comfort as well a vehicle instability and increases stress on suspension components.
Speedometer Accuracy
Interestingly this is from the Queensland Police web site
Quote:
"Manufacturers place a plate on a vehicle to indicate that it complies with Australian requirements for vehicle safety, standards, Australian Design Rules, etc., and as such the requirements for accuracy of the speedometer is disclosed to the public. If an owner changes the configuration of their vehicle which alters the required specifications, it is their responsibility to ensure they have a way of knowing the correct speed of their vehicle."
The Australian Design Rules are available on the internet for people to ascertain the permitted tolerance for their car. The compliance with the design rules ensure a driver will not exceed the QPS tolerance levels if they stay within the speed limits according to their speedometer.
There are various ways a motorist is able to check their vehicle's speedometer for specific accuracy or gross error. A person can request a check via RACQ/motor repairer, a GPS device, and Department of Transport and Main Roads roadside speedometer check points (time over distance based)"
Note:
You can check your speedo error using a GPS device...But don't rely on it as a defence in court ....Speeding is an "An absolute liability offence - one where the prosecution only needs to produce evidence of what someone did . What the accused believed is always irrelevant". Another interesting thing is that what we mistakenly assume as an allowable speed limit tolerance before an infringement is recorded is not an allowance for speedo error or how much you can legally exceed a speed limit by. It is a police speed detector accuracy allowance.
"Deduction from the speed reading displayed by prescribed speed measuring devices, This is to avoid contested cases where the only argument in court is in respect of the ability of the police device accurately to measure speed down to the last 1kmh."
This is worth reading Speedometer inaccuracy, Radar tolerances and the Law
Avoid traffic infringements and hefty fines Check your Speedometer Error
About Tyre Pressures
"Inflation pressures specified on the placard are always "cold tyre inflation pressure". Cold tyre inflation pressure is defined as the tyre pressure after the vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km) after sitting for a minimum of three hours. The cold tyre inflation pressure must not exceed the maximum inflation pressure moulded into the tyre sidewall. Tyre pressure should only increase by 2 to 6 psi (13 to 40 kPa) during normal operation if cold inflation pressures are correctly set . DO NOT reduce this normal pressure build up or your tyre pressure will be too low when cold."
The recommended Cold Inflation Pressures listed on the vehicle's placard are ok for most driving conditions with the recommended tyre sizes. If your vehicle is lifted and equipped with larger and probably wider tires the vehicle's weight distribution is different and the recommended placard pressures don't necessarily apply.
See: Are Your Tyre Pressures Correct ??
Establishing Initial Cold Inflation Tyre Pressures.
A good method of establishing initial cold inflation pressures is:
- Take the max weight the tyre can support (on sidewall) and multiply it by 4.This gives the maximum total weight all four tyres can support.
- Next take the weight of your Jeep plus 20% (safety margin) and divide it into the maximum total weight.
- Now divide this number into the maximum psi stated on the sidewall and you'll have your cold inflation pressure.
Example: BFG LT265/65R18 (If loaded to GVM then substitute vehicle's GVM instead of Kerb Weight)
Kerb Weight (Tare Mass) = 2191kg (Diesel Laredo)
Max Sidewall Rating = 1500kg at 80 psi
Max Total Weight = 1500 x 4 = 6000 kg
Vehicle 20% Safety Margin = 2191 x 1.2 = 2629kg
Constant = 6000/2629 = 2.28
Cold Inflation Pressure = 80/2.28 = 35psi (2.4 bar)
This method will give a good starting point for the "4 psi Rule" (commonly used to determine the best operating tyre pressures).
The 4 PSI Rule:
- note the tyre max pressure (marked on the sidewall) and do not exceed it
- note the vehicle's recommended placard (cold) tyre pressures and inflate to this pressure when tyres are cold
- inflate tyres to the recommended cold tyre pressures with the vehicle in the shade (all wheels) and not driven for at least 1 hour.
- drive the vehicle at highway speed for at least 1 hour or 50km.
- check tyre pressures.
- if pressures are correct then tyre pressure should rise between 2 and 6 psi (Jeep manual) with 4 psi optimum for P-metric. For LT tyres, due to higher maximum pressures, the rule is modified with the optimum towards the higher end (5-6 psi). LT tyres do require higher pressures to stiffen sidewalls to reduce heat buildup under load (load Index).
- if pressure rise is less, then cold inflation pressures have to be increased
- if too high, then cold inflation pressures needs to be reduced.
- use the 4 PSI Rule to find the ideal tyre pressure for differing load and towing conditions
- record these pressures for future reference
Where speed limits or conditions are such that the vehicle can be driven at high speeds, maintaining correct tyre inflation pressure is very important. Increased tyre pressure and reduced vehicle loading may be required for high-speed vehicle operation. Refer to your authorised tyre dealer for recommended safe operating speeds, loading and cold tyre inflation pressures.
There are several commonly used methods to find the most applicable tyre pressure but the "4 psi Rule" is possibly the best known and often used.
See: Guide To Adjusting Tyre Pressure
Caution
- If tyres are inflated to placard pressures when they are hot or in the heat of the day, cold pressures will probably be dangerously low the following morning. Alternatively if a tyre is inflated to say 40 psi on a cool morning of 12°C and a day high of 32°C, tyre pressures after driving, can possibly exceed the tyre's maximum rating.
- Tyre pressures will vary by approximately 1 psi (7 kPa) per 12°F (7°C) of air temperature change.
See: How Tyre Pressure Varies With Temperature
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
WK2 Grand Cherokee TPMS sensors operate on 433MHz. Although 315 MHz and 433 MHz sensors are identical in size and shape, 315MHz sensors are not compatible and are not interchangeable. TPMS sensors are designed for original style factory wheels, SRT8 sensors should not be used and are a different part number. Be sure of TPMS operating frequencies before ordering aftermarket sensors. TPMS service (mounting) kits should be used if sensors are removed and reinstalled.
Sensor - 433MHz (includes sensor, cap and mounting nut) | 56029398AB |
Module, TPMS | 56029401AH |
Cap kit (includes 5 black caps) | 68058768AA |
Hardware kit, mounting (includes black rubber valve stem , cap and mounting screw) | 68058766AA |
Hardware kit, mounting (includes nut, washer, cap, seal and valve core) | 68020719AC |
Valve core kit (includes 5 valve cores) | 68058769AA |
All TPMS senders are the same for all pre 2017 WK2 models (except the SRT8) and many other Chrysler models as well. The WK2 GC programmed warning thresholds are the same regardless of wheel or tyre size, so reprogramming is not necessary. TPMS sensors in the new wheels register after about 15km. There should be no problem as long as (Mopar) Jeep TPMS sensors are used.
About the WK2 TPMS
Replacing TPMS Sensors
Note:
The new Trailhawk has a different part number to the pre 2017 WK2 models and the 56029398AB sensor does not register with the TPMS system...The new part number is 68313387AB - 001
Note:
Pressure will vary with temperature by about 10kps (0.1 bar or 1.45 psi ) for every 10°C change. If temperatures drop to 0°C or lower tyre, pressures should not be increased or If the ambient temperature rises to about +40°C tyre pressure should not be lowered. As the vehicle is driven, it is normal for tyre pressures to increase with tyre temperature buildup, and should be not readjusted until after the vehicle has not been driven for several hours and away from the effects of outside temperatures or direct sunlight.
About & Adjusting Tyre Pressures
Quick Bar to PSI Conversion Table
Bull Bars
Front Plastic Shroud Potential Problem
Have a WK2 without Parking Sensors?
The way I installed mine in my Laredo works well but the kit had 4 sensors whereas the UNeek bullbar has options for 6.
Quote (from Car Accessorys):
"So you're wondering which is the best , to buy? As always OEM Technology has been put to the test, the car manufactures do a lot of research into the Reversing Sensors they will be Installing. Hence why we recommend the Ultra Sleek parking Sensors for (Reverse Parking Sensors and Front Parking Sensors) By Car Accessorys. Because it is an "OEM Product." Most Reversing Sensors are not OE standards & are not even close to OE Standards Car acc & Ultra Sleek Parking Sensors is the only system fitted after market that will control front Parking Sensors with a left and right bar graph and also a measurement in the center of the screen to tell you how far away you are from the obstacle Automatically. Front Sensors detect objects within 1000mm of the vehicle and will stop you at 300mm. Reverse Sensor kit will turn it self on via engaging reverse gear and start detecting distances. Car Accessorys provide a range of different Quality Reversing Sensors & Parking Sensors. Each system should be specific for your needs. All sensors are colour matched and flush mounted and covered by our life time warranty on Installations."
Have a diesel without a snorkel????
Caution:
- Thermoplastics can be subject to degradation if environmental factors are not taken into account. - UV Resistance quick guide
- Beware or cheap eBay low quality snorkel copies - Don't get burnt
Important Air Ram Notice
Extract from Airflow snorkel documentation:
"Do not turn the Air Ram away from the direction of travel because it will lessen the positive pressure necessary for proper operation. In extreme situation, at speed above 25km/h a vacuum may be generated causing irreversible engine damage The Air Ram should only be turned backward in very heavy weather/dust conditions. In which case, the vehicle speed SHOULD NOT EXCEED 25km/h as it may damage the engine."
Quote (Airflow):
"Due to the configuration of the plumbing to get the snorkel to work. The new smaller faced Parabolic air ram will not supply enough air at low to medium speed at below and at optimum revs In these conditions the engine may starve for air increasing fuel consumption and decrease power from standard, as many other snorkel brands do therefore a standard Parabolic Air Ram is required. The smaller air Ram is not Recommended" see: Using smaller Air Ram Heads
Travel safe with a cargo barrier!!
Off roading you will need most if not all that gear you take such as camping gear, tools and supplies. Of course we often take more than we need but all things going good it all stays where you stored while travelling. Sadly it doesn't need an accident to shift it. Simply braking or travelling over rough dirt roads or extreme track can fling your cargo into the passenger area causing serious injury or in the event of an accident, potentially death. If you're heading out on tour you need a cargo barrier to keep cargo cargo area where it's meant to be
Read more: 4wd-touring/cargo-barriers
Pet/Cargo Barrier for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 (2011-2013
An excellent addition to your 4WD to prevent cargo flying forward, often with serious consequences, in the event of a sudden stop or accident.
Need a swing-away spare tyre carrier??
Annoyed with the idea of having to unload all your cargo by the roadside just to get to the spare under the cargo compartment floor and then having to reload it??..Maybe a swing-away spare tyre carrier is the solution.
Note:
The Formula Offroad tyre carrier (1 hour bolt on) for the WK2 some trimming to the rear bumper may be needed. This is probably not necessary but handy to know in case:
If you have then maybe you should fit an Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) monitor. Modifying a turbo-diesel for more power with diesel power chips or modules, which function by increasing fuel delivery at full power, can generate higher than normal EGT. For the safety of your engine find out the Air Fuel Ratio (AFR) of your engine before modification A low AFR (rich mixture) can cause excessive engine heat and smoke while a high AFR is lean and clean. Always check how a performance tune or chip achieves it's power gain and what changes to the AFR are made. Few things will damage or kill a diesel engine faster than excessive EGT.
How Turbochargers work
Further reading: ETG (pdf)
Further reading :AFR
ETG gauges for diesel 4x4 vehicles: ThermoGuard
EGT Probe Installation:TheSensorConnection
Jeep Grand Cherokee Performance Chips & Programmers
Word of advice, if considering performance enhancing, read your warranty terms and conditions first if your vehicle is still under warranty
Are you flushing money down the loo? see: Unsealed4x4.
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- Jeep 4WD Systems
- Quadra-Drive II
- The Best System
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- Simpson Desert Crossing
- Along Lake Poeppel
- Via The French Line
- WK2 GC vs GU Patrol
- Extreme Recovery Fails
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- WK2 Offroad
Posted by: carterthierrye0198985.blogspot.com
Source: http://users.tpg.com.au/klgreen/WK2_GC_Tech.html
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