tow bar JEEP COMMANDER 2010 1.G Owners Manual

NOTE:If not equipped with crossbars, your authorized
dealer can order and install MOPAR crossbars built
specifically for this roof rack system.
Distribute cargo weight evenly on the roof rack crossbars.
The roof rack does not increase the total load carrying
capacity of the vehicle. Be sure the total load of cargo
inside the vehicle plus that on the external rack does not
exceed the maximum vehicle load capacity.
The optional crossbars must be installed using the correct
orientation (the longer crossbar toward the front) with
the raised edge (wind trip) toward the front of the
vehicle.
1 — Front of Vehicle 3 — Thumb Screws
2 — Raised Edge (Wind Trip)
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 151

The optional crossbars must also be secured in one of the
five detent positions marked with an arrow on the
siderails to prevent movement. To move the crossbars,
loosen the thumb screws located at the upper edge of
each crossbar approximately eight turns, then move the
crossbar to the desired position, keeping the crossbars
parallel to the rack frame. Once the crossbar is in one of
the five detent positions, retighten the thumb screws to
lock the crossbar into position.
NOTE:
•To help control wind noise when the crossbars are not
in use, place the front crossbar in the first detent from
the front of the vehicle and the rear crossbar in the
second detent from the rear of the vehicle.
•If the rear crossbar (or any metallic object) is placed
over the satellite radio antenna (if equipped), you may
experience interruption of satellite radio reception. For
improved satellite radio reception, place the rear cross-
bar in the second detent from the rear of the vehicle
when not in use.
•The grab handles on the back of the vehicle (if
equipped) are not to be used as a towing feature.
CAUTION!
•To prevent damage to the roof of your vehicle, DO
NOT carry any loads on the roof rack without
crossbars installed. The load should be secured
and placed on top of the crossbars, not directly on
the roof. If it is necessary to place the load on the
roof, place a blanket or some other protection
between the load and the roof surface.(Continued)
152 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch system works by applying
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are typically
used for heavier loads, to distribute trailer tongue weight
to the tow vehicle’s front axle and the trailer axle(s).
When used in accordance with the manufacturer’s direc-
tions, it provides for a more level ride, offering more
consistent steering and brake control thereby enhancing
towing safety. The addition of a friction/hydraulic sway
control also dampens sway caused by traffic and cross-
winds, and contributes positively to tow vehicle and
trailer stability. Trailer sway control and a weight distrib-
uting (load equalizing) hitch are recommended for
heavier trailer tongue weights (TW) and may be required
depending on Vehicle and Trailer configuration/loading
to comply with gross axle weight rating (GAWR)
requirements.WARNING!
•An improperly adjusted weight-distributing hitch
system may reduce handling, stability, and brak-
ing performance, and could result in an accident.
•Weight-distributing hitch systems may not be
compatible with Surge Brake Couplers. Consult
with your hitch and trailer manufacturer or a
reputable Recreational Vehicle dealer for addi-
tional information.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 325

complete. A “4WD SYSTEM IN NEUTRAL” message will
display on the EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information
Center). Refer to “Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC)” in Section 4 of this manual.5. Start the engine.
6. Shift the transmission into DRIVE.
7. Release the brake pedal and ensure that there is no
vehicle movement.
8. Shut the engine off.
9. Shift the transmission into PARK.
10. Place the ignition key in the OFF position, and
remove key.
11. Apply the parking brake.
12. Attach the vehicle to the tow vehicle with tow bar.
13. Release the parking brake.
Neutral Switch
338 STARTING AND OPERATING

5. Shift the transmission into PARK.
6. Start the engine.
7. Shift the transmission into DRIVE.
NOTE:When shifting out of transfer case NEUTRAL,
turning the engine OFF may be required to avoid gear
clash.
WARNING!
You or others could be injured if you leave the
vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the
NEUTRAL position without first fully engaging the
parking brake. The transfer case NEUTRAL position
disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from
the powertrain and will allow the vehicle to move
even if the transmission is in PARK. The parking
brake should always be applied when the driver is
not in the vehicle.
CAUTION!
Do not use a bumper-mounted clamp-on tow bar on
your vehicle. The bumper face bar will be damaged.
Neutral Switch
340 STARTING AND OPERATING