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Advice Q&A Towing and Towed VehiclesRV
Advice Q&A Towing and Towed Vehicles
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below is about 40% of the E-mail questions submitted to us during the time
frame (shown below) and the answers that are related to towed vehicles
and towing vehicles. You can send your question(s) using the form at the
bottom of any of our Q&A pages.
This page last updated November 19, 2009 containing letters emailed to Pete from January 26th - October 10th
Looking for a list of towable vehicles? Check our FAQs page.
I have a 1996 Chevy S-10 pickup with 5 speed manual transmission. Can I flat tow it behind motor home? Do I need a cable disconnect on drive line?
Dear John,
I believe it's towable without modification but you might check with Remco to be sure you don't need a drive shaft disconnect.
I have a complete used drive shaft disconnect and Roadmaster brackets off of a 1999 Sonoma.
Can I tow my 2002 Dodge Dakota Sport 4 door, 4X4, auto transmission, with front wheels on a dolly or should I put the rear wheels on the dolly?
Dear Gary,
Front wheels, transfer case in neutral.
How may I tow a 2006 Cadillac Escalade behind my Monaco Signature coach?
Dear Rob,
Four wheels down. It requires a Remco lube pump.
I would recommend looking at the Roadmaster Blackhawk All Terrain Tow Bar with MX brackets and the M&G car braking system.
We recently purchased a 1999 Fleetwood Bounder diesel pusher with a 275 HP Cummins diesel. With the Bounder, came a drive-on (front wheels), towing dolly. We plan on towing a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe. Will this combination work and what needs to be done to enable the Tahoe to be towed?
Dear Doc,
First, is the dolly rated heavy enough for the Tahoe?
Second, is the Tahoe 2wd or 4wd?
I would suggest selling the dolly and rigging your Tahoe up to tow four wheels down with auxiliary braking.
How much can I tow with my 2001 26' E450 V10 class C Jamboree? I hear that you can only tow up to 3500 lbs, is this true?
Dear Mark,
Find the GCVWR for your motor home. Weigh it loaded and subtract that from your GCVWR and that will give you your answer.
I have a 1998 33 foot Southwind with 90,000 miles, 454 engine. Will it be able to pull a enclosed 26 foot stock car trailer which weights about 8000 lbs.?
Dear Ray,
I would say you're over loading it; but you should be able to beef the hitch up if you built a stock car. And you should be able to enhance the drive train to where you can get a lot of safe miles out of it.
We bought a new 2008 Monaco Cayman. First trip we towed our new 2009 Ford Escape. All four tires on ground, put the car in neutral and turned the key 1 click. Went to Virginia, burned out our transmission and coolant system.
The car had 5,000 miles on it. Ford covered it, but we were told it was towable.
What is the best towable car and why and how did it happen?
Dear Linda,
Look at the Dinghy Towing Guide (link on our FAQs page under towing), for a list of towable vehicles.
What went wrong, I can't say. Read your owner's manual under "dinghy towing" and see what they recommended.
Sometimes things just happen.
I have a 2000 Volkswagen, front-wheel drive, manual transmission. Can we pull it 4-wheels down?
If so, what all do we need to do?
Dear Jackie,
Yes, you can, if you can find a bracket kit for the car to attach the tow bar.
We have a 2009 Ford Escape and the Ford dealer and the RV dealer said it could be flat towed behind our new motor home.
We took our first trip this weekend, about 430 miles. When we got to our destination, there was transmission fluid all over the back window and the vehicle would not move. Car was in neutral and the key was left on auxiliary as we were told to do. Do you have any ideas on how to solve this problem?
Dear Linda,
Check your owner's manual under "dinghy towing" and see what went wrong.
I want to dingy tow my 2006 F-150 4x4 behind my motor home. Is there a neutral tow kit for it, and if so, where can I get it or what is the part number?
The Ford dealer here doesn't know and is suppose to be checking but it's been a month and they still can't give me an answer.
Dear Roger,
Tell your dealer to check with Ford's after market products.
You might need to find a Ford dealer interested in service, instead of selling you another vehicle.
Can a 2002 GMC Sonoma 4x4 be towed 4 wheels down? Haven't really found anything that it could, other than, most GMC 4x4's can be flat towed.
Dear Linda,
Yes, it can be flat towed with the transfer case in neutral, transmission in park and the steering wheel unlocked.
I have a 1990 Mazda Miata. Can I use it all four wheels down as my tow car? It is a five speed stick shift.
Dear Mark,
Yes, and I have a used Roadmaster bracket kit for it. If interested call my shop toll free at: 888-471-9291
Best towing options for towing a Honda Civic behind a 30ft motor home.
Dear Bill,
Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain tow bar set up and an M&G auxiliary car braking system, four wheels down. That's up to a 2007 Civic. The new one, you have to take a chance if you want to tow it four wheels down.
I have a Triple E Class A (Ford F53 chassis), and will be towing a Saturn Vue this winter. I've installed lights/turn signal lamps in the back of the Vue and these are connected to the motor homes 7 pin using a 7/4 adapter connector.
My question is, since the motor homes turn signal flasher is driving the new lamps on the tow vehicle as well as its own, do I need to install a heavy duty flasher on the coach?
If I do, which one of the two flasher relays do I replace?
There is one up on the top of the dash area, the other is down by the brake. Both click when I turn on the signals.
Dear Barrie,
Your coach should have a heavy duty flasher but if you want to change it, it won't hurt. Change the one by the brake pedal.
I have a 1997 Adventurer 37' on a Ford chassis, gas, my hitch is rated 3500 lbs. with 500 lb tongue weight. Is this setup capable of towing a two axle trailer with a 1/2 ton pickup (Ford 150)loaded on it?
Dear Jerry,
I would say yes, even though we both know you're exceeding the weight rating.
Make sure you have brakes on the trailer and that the tongue weight is not excessive. Axle location on the trailer is important. You can have a weld shop beef up the receiver for you.
I have a 1999 Ford Taurus with automatic transmission and FWD I want to flat tow behind my motor home using a Brake Buddy. I checked out the Remco oil pump and it would cost more then the car is worth.
Everything considered I came to the conclusion that I would be better off just starting the car and leave the engine run while it's being towed. That will keep the transmission lubed and battery charged.
From Green Bay to Florida is about 25 hours and the car would only burn about 7 gallons at idle. Would also keep the power brakes activated.
Your thoughts?
Dear William,
Very risky. If the car is not worth hooking up properly why take the chance of towing it and having to spend more money to repair it after you get where you're going than it would to set it up right?
I have a 1983 27' Allegro motor home with a 454 gas engine and want to use a tow dolly to pull my 1996 4 wheel drive Chevy Suburban. I assume the motor home has enough power.
I also need to know if I need to remove Suburban's drive shaft?
Dear Tom,
The motor home might have enough power but not enough brakes. You will probably most definitely exceed the GCVWR of the '83 Allegro, which could cause over heating and maybe some fatigue on the receiver.
You don't have to remove the drive line on the Suburban but you do need to make sure it will fit on the dolly and not break the dolly or straps.
I just read in your FAQs that you said that we could tow a Dodge Grand Caravan with four wheels down using a modification. Our Grand Caravan is an '07 3.3 litre. Could you tell me what modifications would have to be made?
Dear Nick,
Remco lube pump, base plate, tail light wiring, and M&G braking system.
When towing with a class A motor home is there a height variation limit on the towed vehicle and the RV hitch?
This affects the angle on the tow bar and I would think it can not be too much of an angle.
Dear C.R.,
It should be no more than a three degree angle, and you really don't want the bar on the car higher than the ball mount or bar on the coach.
I recently bought a 2005 Weekend Warrior FS3000. It didn't come with a weight distribution hitch or bars, so I borrowed one from my dad. The dealer told me that the trailer weighted 13,000 lbs. dry and that I only needed a weight distribution hitch that was rated for 1200 lb. tongue weight and 12,000 GVWR.
I am towing with a 3/4 ton Dodge Mega cab with air bags and a 2" receiver. So my question is, if the trailer weights 13,000 lbs. dry and has a 150 gallon water tank, 25 gallon fuel tank and 3 or 4 quads plus all my camping gear, is a 12,000 GVWR and 1200 lb. tongue hitch going to be good enough for all the extra weight?
The trailer now weights over 15,000 pounds. If it isn't good enough can you suggest a good hitch?
Dear Travis,
I personally think you need a higher rated hitch and really a larger truck.
Take a look at the Hensley Arrow hitch.
I would like to buy a travel trailer but not sure my truck can handle one. I have a Ford 2003 Sport Trac XLT PRM 4x4 with a 4.0L SOHC V6.
Can this truck pull one (what max size or weight should I stay under), or should I go out and buy a REAL truck?
Dear Dick,
You could handle popups or a little Scamp or Little Guy trailer; but I would say buy a real truck if you want a travel trailer.
We ruined the transmission of a Honda Accord 2004, which supposedly could be towed with 4 wheels on the ground.
We are ready to start towing a 2009 Saturn Aura XE, automatic transmission, which was recommended. What is different about a Honda automatic and a Saturn automatic, to make it dinghy towable ? I hate to ruin another transmission.
Dear Jack,
Well, I haven't researched either transmission so I can't tell you the differences.
If you had followed the directions for "dinghy towing" the Honda (in the Honda's owner's manual), you really shouldn't have ruined the Honda transmission. Sometimes things just happen and it may not have been your fault. The manufacturers know if the transmission will lubricate everything properly before they say it's towable.
Can A 2006 Honda Element be used as a toad?
Dear Dan,
Yes, but read the instructions in the owner's manual for prepping to be towed.
Can you tow a 2007 Honda Fit (manual transmission), behind an RV without a dolly?
We get different answers related to it being front wheel drive, manual transmission, etc.
Dear David,
Yes, people are towing them without drive train modifications.
I want to purchase a 2001 VW Cabrio, automatic, to tow 4 wheels down. Can it be done with after market devices?
If not, can I tow a manual shift model instead? My wife can't drive a standard.
Dear Ed,
You can tow the manual transmission but I don't believe there are after market products that will work with your VW automatic transmission.
We have a 2002 Coachman Leprechaun and are thinking about purchasing a 2004 Ford Escape, manual, 4 cylinder. Is this vehicle towable behind our Coachman?
Dear David,
Check the owner's manual, look at the Dinghy Towing Guide (link at http://www.rvadvice.com/faqs.html), and then look at the Roadmaster web site to see if brackets are available for a tow bar. Usually, if the cars are not towable they won't fabricate brackets for it.
Is the 2004 Southwind motor home on a Ford chassis pre wired for an electric brake controller? Or do you have to run the wiring all the was to the rear? If it is pre wired, where are the connections?
Dear Al,
I would bet you have to run the wires to the rear.
You can go to your trailer wiring plug and see if the wires are there or where the wires are tied in back there. If they are there, they should also be under the dash.
Is it possible to tow a 2006 Honda Accord with automatic transmission four wheels down behind a motor coach?
Dear Nora,
Yes. Follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on Remco's recorded phone message.
I want to connect my truck to my trailer to charge the battery on the trailer. I have a 1973 Silver Steak and my truck is a 2005 F350.
The black wire on the 7 wire plug is the charging wire from the truck. Do I simply connect the black charging wire to the battery of the trailer or is there a fuse or a diode needed to make this connection safe?
Dear Ken,
The charge line is probably direct to the battery. It won't hurt to put a breaker in line if you find it doesn't have one.
I want to tow a Navigator L or Cadillac Escalade or Yukon Delani or Ford Expedition, all above with be either 2009-2010 model 4X4 in a dinghy format(4 wheels down), all above do not come with a neutral option.
Is there a way to modify after market to have that option available? (I don't care about warranty void on power train).
Dear Dennis,
You can check with Remco, the lube pump will work on the Escalade or Denali.
I don't know if the drive shaft disconnect will work on the Navigator or Expedition. I would check with Ford's after market services to see if the neutral switch couldn't be added to the Expedition or Navigator.
I have a 41 foot Monaco Diplomat and have been towing a Chevy Trail Blazer with the transfer case in the neutral position and the key in the accessory position. I pull the fuse to the battery.
I was told that pulling a car by flat tow will over heat the transmission and burn it out. Is this true and if so is there any way to prevent this from happening?
Dear Steve,
That's the purpose of putting your transfer case in neutral and leaving your transmission in park so the transmission is not turning and won't damage it.
I have a 1991 GMC 1500 4X4 short box, with a 350 engine. I just bought a 26 foot fifth wheel. The weight on the trailer is 6500 lbs. Do you think it will haul this fifth wheel?
Dear Tim,
Yes, if the 6500 pounds is the GVWR of the trailer and you purchase a slider hitch or extended pin box.
I have a 1980 Fiat Spider with an automatic transmission I wish to find out if it can be neutral towed.
Dear Frank,
Check with Remco, they may have some information on the Fiat.
I have a 88 27' Mallard class C on a Ford chassis with the 460. The previous owner's daughter said he had towed with this rig. I would like to tow an '04 Civic flat. Your thoughts please.
Would any upgrades to the 3 speed auto tranny help?
Dear Frank,
The Civic should be an okay tow car.
Being an '88 model have the receiver inspected and use auxiliary braking also.
Follow the instructions in your owner's manual for prepping the transmission for towing.
Who makes the simplest brake system to help stop both the H3 Hummer and a 40' motor coach diesel pusher?
Dear Albert,
SMI Air Force One.
Can a Ford F-250 super duty diesel pull in 4-wheel drive through the passes towing 16,000 lbs.
Dear Robert,
Yes, if you're careful and keep your speed down; but I believe 16,000 pounds is just a little too much.
We have a 2005 V6 Chevy Trail Blazer we want to pull a 27' Gulfstream Cavalier trailer, will the Trailblazer tow it without a problem?
Dear Denise,
I think you are stretching it.
I don't know the weight of the trailer but I would recommend checking the gross weight of the trailer and adding up the weight of your loaded Trail Blazer to see if you're going over your GCVWR.
Can 2008 Mazda 3 with a manual transmission be towed behind motor home?
Dear Vlado,
I would say yes, but read the owner's manual and check the dinghy towing guide. Link to the guide on our FAQs page under "Towing".
I have a 1995 Jeep Wrangler automatic (6 cyl), if that matters, I would like to flat tow behind my Beaver Contessa. Do I put the tranny in N as well as the transfer case?
Also, I have a 1988 Chevy Silverado 4x4 automatic transmission and manual transfer case, would that be a better towable?
Dear Conor,
Both vehicles would make a good tow car. You might want to put the transmission on the Jeep in "park", to keep the transmission from free wheeling while towing.
I am looking to buy a new car and would like recommendation on what cars to look at that are fuel efficient and can tow a camper less than 29 feet.
Dear Vicki,
There is nothing that is fuel efficient that can tow a 29' camper.
If you drop it down to around 26', you can look at the Chevy Tahoe.
I have a '96 Safari Trek 2430 and a '04 Ford Ranger toad with M&G brake and Demco Aluminator tow bar and base plate.
(1) Can I hookup diode protected wiring under the hood or must the wires go all the way to the back of the ranger?
(2) Will I run down the Ranger battery with the key turned one click to release the steering lock (I don't see any dash lights on in that position)?
Dear Bruce,
I like adding the bulb and sockets on the rear tail lights, so you don't cut into your wiring on your truck.
I have more success using the diodes in the rear when I use them, but you will see a caution on the Ford wiring harness about trailering lights. There is plenty of room for the bulb and sockets and they simplify the whole procedure.
Can a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu LT V6 be flat towed without modification? If modification is needed what would it be?
Dear Sharon,
Yes, it can be flat towed with just the assembly of the tow bar brackets, wiring for lights and a good auxiliary brake.
I have a 39' Fleetwood motor home and would like to tow a 2002 Chevy Silverado Z-71 push button 4 wheel drive behind my motor home. Is this acceptable as a dingy?
Dear Louis,
Yes, sir. Read your owner's manual and look at the M&G auxiliary braking system.
What would make a good tow vehicle that I can tow behind my '07 Hurricane that I just purchased?
Dear Ricky,
Look at the RV dinghy towing guide on line. Link on our FAQs page under "towing".
I am brand new to the RV world. Have enjoyed camping for years, but always outdoors or in a tent. I am 53 now and my wife and I are looking into purchasing a new truck, and a used 5th wheel.
I have done a fair amount of investigating on the web and talking to folks who have RVs.
My main concern is what truck to buy?
Most have told me to go with the old reliable 3/4 ton GM or Dodge.
But, I am one of those guys who keeps his vehicle forever.
I do not want to purchase a truck that is cumbersome to drive all over town, and will double as a family vehicle as well. My wife will be driving this thing half the time each day as well. So, comfort and ease of handling are an issue.
What I like is the Titan, or Tundra. The model I would like to get will have four doors and most likely a short bed. What I am hoping for is that one of these has enough of what it takes to haul a 5th wheel RV.
Some of the things I have leaned are: A short bed will be cause for a sliding hitch.
The Titan and Tundra do not have enough power or weight to handle the larger 5th wheel RVs. And that is OK, I will just get a smaller version.
I do intend on renting a 5th wheel RV after I have purchased the truck to get a feel for things.
I guess what I am looking for is just some sound advice.
If I should purchase one of these trucks, what kind of limitations do you think I will encounter?
Dear Paul,
Tons. First, you have to check and see if you can even install a fifth wheel hitch, regular or slider. I know a lot of Toyotas don't have room and I have never seen one in a Titan yet.
My advice is step up, save money, and get real reliable comfort with the GM 3/4 ton. Something that will last for years without breaking the bank and you can work it hard. Look around at the work trucks and see what they are.
There's a reason why the Toyotas and Nissans are mainly pulling lawn care trailers or swimming pool supplies.
If I install a lube pump (similar to Remco unit), on the transmission of my 2004 Lexus RX330, will I be able to tow it behind my Monaco Cayman?
Dear Bill,
Check with Remco. You might want to make sure you can find tow bar brackets for it first.
Be careful trying to fabricate a lube pump kit, it doesn't work with all transmissions and you have to be sure and keep the flow in the right direction.
We have a 38" Gulfstream Sun Voyager and would like to tow our 2006 Ford F-150. We don't know where to start as far as what kind of tow bar/set up to use. Any advice?
Dear Bill,
Roadmaster Black Hawk All Terrain with the MX brackets and the M&G car braking system.
My 2009 HHR records mileage while it is being flat towed. The manual says to pull the #8 fuse which unlocks the steering mechanism, but this does not prevent the odometer from racking up miles.
Is there a fuse I can pull to eliminate this problem? My former "tow car" required that I pull three separate fuses which solved this problem. No one including GM seems to know what to do to prevent the tow mileage.
Dear Nancy,
I would think the odometer is electronic.
Do some testing with the fuses and see which one kills the power to the odometer display. If it racks up mileage with the key turned off, there has to be an ECM memory fuse or something; it's not wireless.
I have a 2006 GMC Envoy and would like to know if it can be towed?
Dear Wiley,
Yes. The 2wd or AWD will need a Remco lube pump or drive shaft disconnect.
I have a used Blue Ox base plate (used less than one year), that will fit your Envoy. Call my shop at 888-471-9291.
Trying to find out just how big a trailer I can tow with my 2002 E150 passenger van. It has a 5.4 liter V8. It has a GVWR of 7,000 lbs. The Reese hitch it has on it, has a trailer weight of 10,000 lbs for a weight distributing hitch/1000 lbs., tongue weight, and 5,000 lbs for a weight carrying hitch with a 500 lbs tongue weight. I have looked at several sights and keep coming up with different figures. I also do not find the book to be real helpful and it appears I will need to get the van weighed before I can do anything.
Dear Bill,
You're right, you need to know the weight of your van.
But you also need to know the GCVWR so you can subtract GVWR to come up with a weight for the trailer.
I wouldn't think you would want to go over a 24' trailer in length.
I plan to tow a 1995 Jeep Wrangler X behind my 32ft RV. The Jeep is a 5 speed manual transmission with 4 wheel drive. What is the best way to set the Jeep up for towing? I am planning to put the 4 wheel in neutral as well as the 5 speed. Then click the ignition 1 notch. Your thoughts?
Dear Scott,
You're on the right track, but put the transmission in third or fourth gear instead of neutral.
Look at the M&G car braking system.
I have a used Blue Ox bracket for the double pipe bumper Wrangler.
I have a slider hitch in my short bed truck. When I move it backwards or forward it jars the truck. Is there a way to stop this? Or is it just me doing something wrong?
Dear Randy,
I would think it's normal. With experience you might diminish it but when it goes from unlock to sliding to the locked position it has to jar it some.
Regarding tow vehicles: Is the 2006 Saturn Vue towable?
Dear V.,
Check your owner's manual. I am of the understanding that some of the power trains used are not towable; but the Saturn power train is towable, if the Saturn power train was used in your Vue.
I have a 2001 Geo Tracker 2 wheel, read drive manual - 5-speed. We got rid of our dolly and had a full towing kit installed by Camping World.
QUESTIONS: 1. We were instructed to place the key in accessory to flat tow the vehicle from Camping World and it done great with no problems. Does this run down the battery (We purchased a new battery just in case)?
2. The 2001 Geo Tracked has two accessory position when "flat towing." First accessory position unlocks the steering when and no dash indicator lights are on. the second accessory position is all the way forward to where it shows the dash indicator lights, etc., as if you were getting ready to turn-on the vehicle.
Just give us some simple "recommendations" since we have never flat towed our Tracker other than from the local Camping World.
Dear Larry,
1. If you turn the A/C and radio off, you should be okay.
2. The first accessory position, where you unlock the steering wheel, is what you're looking for. You don't mention a braking system, which you should have. Some of the brakes will run your battery down while towing. If you don't have a braking system I would recommend the M&G Engineering car braking system.
We have a '99 Chevrolet S-10, 4 cylinder 5 speed. Can we just put it in neutral and tow it with a tow bar behind our 30' 5th wheel?
We are pulling the 5th wheel with a 2000, dually, club cab diesel.
Dear Lois,
Check with Remco, you might need a drive shaft disconnect for that transmission. I recommend you also look at the M&G Engineering auxiliary car brake if you do decide to triple tow.
Can a 1997 Ford Explorer 2 wheel drive be used as an tow vehicle?
Dear Ron,
Check with Remco to see if the drive shaft disconnect is applicable.
I may have a used Blue Ox bracket for the front.
I have a 2004 Trail Bay travel camper and since I have had it I have had three tires blow out over a period of three years.
Were the wrong tires used or is there something wrong with the alignment?
Dear Roy,
You should be able to tell from the tire wear pattern if it's an alignment problem. Check the sidewall on the tires to see if they are rated for the load. Three tires in three years could be road debris.
We have a motor home and want to pull are 2007 Kia Sorento (4 wheel drive), behind it.
Towbar versa 2 wheel dolly. Which would be best to use and what would I need?
Dear Roger,
Tow bar is always best. Look at the Roadmaster web site for a list of items to make up a complete towing package.
I just bought a 2500, 2007 Silverado Duramax with automatic and manual 6 speed. I pull a 8,500 5th wheel and am wondering if one should tow in manual, or just put it in drive and watch the gauges?
I do not have the owners manual yet, however I have one coming but I will be towing before it gets here.
Dear Gerald,
Put it in drive and pay attention. Use your tow haul mode for heavy traffic and mountains.
I have an automatic drive 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan. Can it be towed behind a Winnebago 29' RV without using a lift?
How does that process work - or will it just ruin the Caravan transmission?
Dear Marilyn,
Look at the Remco lube pump for the transmission. Towing without it would ruin the transmission.
I have a 1967 VW beetle, can I tow that type of vehicle four on ground?
Dear JG,
The manual transaxle, yes. But, be sure to adapt the tow bar to a solid part of the frame structure.
Can a 1999 S10 Chevy pickup truck, stick shift 5 speed, be flat towed behind a RV by just putting it in neutral?
The manual says no, but I don't know why. Unless I have the incorrect manual for the vehicle it was purchased used.
Dear Bob,
Check with Remco about a drive shaft disconnect.
Sometimes the five speed tranny doesn't lubricate the rear bearing. If the disconnect is not needed they won't sell it to you.
I have a 2001 GMC Jimmy 4 wheel drive, can you tell me if I can tow with 4 down? My tow vehicle is a 2003 Lexington 23 foot with a 8.1 V-8/
Dear JG,
The Jimmy should make a good tow vehicle if you include brakes on the Jimmy as part of your towing set up.
You might find you want to beef up the suspension on the Lexington for more stability towing the Jimmy.
Is the installation of a Roadmaster XL tow bracket on my 2007 Saturn Ion as difficult as the directions appear to be?
I bought the brackets on-line to save some money and can't find anyone to install them without paying what I consider an extreme amount to do it.
The directions say 2.5 hrs for the install.
Dear Steve,
Usually the people earn their money installing the brackets.
If you have the tools, the brackets come with step by step instructions; but I will give you odds that you don't install them in 2.5 hours; experienced techs can't even do it in that time frame.
I just purchased a new tow dolly with an electrical braking system.
I need to connect it to my FourWinds 28A motor home which is on a 2004 Ford E450 diesel frame. The connector on my motor home is just a simple 4 pin device with Right + Left + stop pins.
The socket on the tow dolly is a 6 blade (no center pin) device.
I found a six pin socket on the wiring harness under the dash that I believe is the electric braking power supply.
My question is - "Do I need a braking control unit for this vehicle, or does the Ford unit already take care of the braking power to this socket"? If so, then all I have to do is extend this socket to the back of my motor home to a suitable connector, right?
Dear Tony,
You will need a brake controller.
On some of the Ford F series they supply a brake controller but I haven't heard of any E series coming from the factory with the brake controller installed.
I recently purchased a 2008 KZ Spree and I am towing with a 2002 Ford 150. The ride in the truck is dramatically more bumpy when towing. Is this usual? If not, any suggestions?
Dear Gary,
Yes, but look at the Roll Gard to help the ride on your F-150.
I have a 2000 Fleetwood Bounder gas engine. I am going to install a trailer brake controller. Is this unit pre wired for the controller and if so where is the plugs located to hook up? It only has a 4 wire plug now.
Dear Don,
No, you will have to hard wire it.
I need to know the width for a tow dolly for a P30 GMC chassis, in other words, the measurement from the right outside front tire to the left front outside tire.
Also, the weight of a 26 foot Argosy motor home and the tire equivalent for tires for a tow dolly for this vehicle.
Dear Wayne,
I have no idea what could change drastically with the tire and wheel choice of the last installation. What's on it now?
You will just have to measure it. I would guess you have around 5,000 pounds of weight on the front axle.
You're worried about tire size for the dolly, what about the axle rating, bearings, etc.?
I have an older 1983 Honda Accord, in great shape. It is manual transmission 5-speed, is it towable? And do I need a braking system for such a light weight vehicle?
Dear Rich,
Yes, I would suggest the braking system for everyone towing.
We have purchased a tow dolly and have questions about towing a 2001 Dodge Durango behind a 30.5 Coachman Leprechaun, also 2001.
Does the transmission have to be in neutral and if not where should it be? Does the 4x4 transmission have to be in neutral? We are new to this and want to be sure to do it right and I have read conflicting information.
Dear Sheryl,
Yes, the 4x4 transfer case needs to be in neutral and the transmission in park. I think your Durango is too much weight for your dolly and your motor home especially without some type of braking for the tow vehicle.
Get rid of the dolly and start over or trade and get a small car or Suzuki Sidekick.
Do you need an eight foot bed to handle a fifth wheel, or can a short bed (6 foot) suffice?
Getting ready to go truck searching, because we want to upgrade to a 5th wheel trailer.
Dear Thomas,
You can use some short bed trucks with a slider hitch or extended pin box on the trailer.
You just have to be sure the install is applicable to the truck, and the slider hitches are a little pricey, so the 8' bed is the best choice.
I have a older Nissan 4x4, 5 speed pickup. I want to tow behind my motor home. I have heard you have to put the transfer case in neutral and the transmission in neutral.
My neighbor does this with no problem. I also heard that you should put the transmission in gear? Also heard to disconnect the drive shaft. Do you know the correct way?
Dear Dan,
All three will work; but putting the transfer case in neutral and transmission in a forward gear is probably the best way.
Is there a place where you can key in your tow vehicle and find what needs to be done to tow it, if it is tow able, and the best parts and way to tow it behind a RV?
I have a 2002 Fleetwood Flair 31H and want to tow either our 1998 Honda CR-V or our 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid. I heard there might be a site where you can key in your vehicles and the reply will give directions on starting your car every 300 miles to keep your torque converter filled and a what parts and the best way to tow it.
Dear Bill,
The dinghy towing guide and your owner's manual. (Link to towing guide on our FAQs page).
The CR-V makes a good tow vehicle and the instructions for prepping to dinghy tow are in the owner's manual.
What is the best truck for towing all four wheels down, with no modification needed?
Dear Laurinda,
What size? Check out the Dinghy Towing Guide, link on our FAQs page. You will find a variety of trucks to choose from.
Can a 2004 PT Cruiser with a 5 speed manual transmission be flat towed?
Dear Wayne,
Yes, it can.
We have a Jayco Featherlight 19H model trailer. We now have purchased a 3500 lb boat and trailer. Can we tow the boat behind the trailer?
Dear Ed,
I wouldn't recommend it. Plus, I don't know what you're towing with or the laws on triple towing in your state.
I can't count the number of times I have seen the people with multiple tow trucks moving the triple towers into the storage lots while they frantically run around looking for someone to weld them back together so they can continue on, or leave one unit in storage or a repair facility until they can make a trip home and drop one and go back and get the other one.
I've got a 26 foot BT Cruiser, not that big by RV standards. I need to pick up and move a customized boat trailer a few states away. The trailer will have two lightweight boats on it; both boats with trailer will be quite light. No worries about weight issues.
The concern I have is with towing a 17 foot trailer behind a 26 foot RV. If I were towing with my pickup, I'd not be concerned at all about the little 17 foot trailer. I've not towed with the RV before, and not sure how that would work with the added length.
Would this be difficult? I'd like to not be a terror to myself or others on the road. A 17 foot trailer is longer than the typical toad, or U-Haul utility trailer. The trailer width is almost exactly the width of the RV, if that makes any difference.
Also, I've got reasonably good trailer towing experience, but with smaller tow vehicles. Advice?
Dear Jason,
You should be okay if you make sure you have brakes on the trailer and keep your speed in check. You might hook up and check your mirrors to make sure you are going to be able to safely calculate lane changes; but if you're experienced towing, you should be okay.
We have a 36' Dolphin with 454 Vortec engine. We are wanting to tow (on a tow dolly), our '98 Cadillac Eldorado. Is this a good plan or is the Cadillac to heavy?
Dear Jim,
The Cadillac is too heavy without brakes. Rig the Cadillac up to tow four wheels down with brakes. You might spend $4,000 up front, but it will be a more recreational way of traveling and safer!
I have been towing a 14 ft boat behind my 21 ft travel trailer. My truck is a 1995 GMC K1500 extended cab. I have a copy of Minnesota statutes 169.81 subd.3c. It does not state that the middle vehicle has to be a 5th wheel, it also states that it does not exceed 70ft.
I have read and heard that it has to be a 5th wheel and can not exceed 60ft. Am I legal doing this?
Dear Kevin,
You can find the Minnesota RV laws on our Minnesota Travel Page. You could be legal in your state, but in most states triple towing is illegal on state highways; so if you plan to leave the state of Minnesota you need to be aware of the state highway laws where you plan to travel.
I just recently purchased a 1975 Boles Areo 32 ft trailer. I was wondering since I am a first time trailer owner if I am doing the right thing. I have a Ford Expedition V-8, 5.4 lt engine year 2001, 4X4.
With a class III hitch will this pull the trailer without any issues?
Also, where can I find some specs on this trailer?
Dear Brian,
I can't help with specs on the trailer but I can tell you it's going to be a full load for the Expedition and yes, there will be issues. Take a look at the Hensley Arrow hitch.
Can I tow a 2000 Ford F-150 with auto transmission?
Dear Dick,
Yes, with a Remco drive shaft disconnect.
Can't get the brake lights to work on the trailer I am hooking up to my 2005 Fleetwood Bounder. All turn signals and parking lights work, but no brake lights.
Do you know anything about how the wires from the coach hook in to the 7 pin harness?
Dear Cameron,
Sounds like you need a brake light converter for your trailer. You can get one any place that sells towing equipment.
I would like to tow my 2000 VW Golf TDI (manual transmission), behind my Class C. Can I do a flat tow or must I use a dolly?
Dear Byron,
Five speed can be towed four wheels down if you can find a bracket kit. Automatic will require the tow dolly.
Can I tow a PT Cruiser, automatic, behind my class A RV; put in neutral, have the engine running and start towing up the road?
Dear Dale, I wouldn't.
Install the Remco lube pump and tow it safely.
Can a Suzuki SX4 be towed and where do I find a list of cars that can be towed?
Dear Stanley,
I am not sure about the Suzuki, read the owner's manual. Check out the Dinghy Towing Guide on line. You can find a link on our FAQs page (under Q&A Towing).
Do I need a weight distribution hitch?
I am towing a Starcraft Antigua 215sb with a 2004 Suburban Z71. The dealer says no.
Dear Chad,
You don't necessarily need it but it's a good safety feature to have.
I am considering purchasing a 1999 Pace Arrow J35 with a Ford V10 gas. I need to pull a 14 foot, tandem axle cargo trailer with 4 dirt bikes and gear.
Will the engine / tranny be able to handle this? If not, can you suggest what I should be looking for?
Dear Dan,
How much does your loaded trailer weigh?
Your GCVWR for that Ford chassis is going to be around 25,000 pounds; you should be able to find the exact weight rating on a tag inside the coach. Subtract the GVWR from the GCVWR and see if you have enough weight left for your trailer.
Depending on type of 14' tandem axle cargo trailer and gear you could have changed things by a few thousand pounds so I would just be guessing to answer you.
How much weight are you talking? How much tongue weight? These are things you need to know.
I've got a Nissan X-trail model 2008 and I would like some advice for a towing kit and its application if available.
Dear Nick,
Check the Roadmaster and Blue Ox web sites to see if the brackets are listed for your Nissan. If they list brackets they normally specify if drive train modifications are necessary and they lay out all the information about lights, safety chains, braking, etc.
I have a 2001 Honda Passport, with a V6-3.2l engine. It has a maximum gross trailer weight of 4500 lbs. The trailer I would like to buy is a 21 ft. lightweight trailer with a weight of 3000 lbs. Can the Honda tow this without lugging, which would either damage the transmission or overheat the car?
The salesman tells me it would work fine, but is he being honest or just trying to sell the trailer?
Dear James,
I would say be very cautious and don't skimp any on the hitch set up if you do choose to go with it.
The 21' trailer behind a Passport scares me.
What is required to flat tow a 2004 Toyota Tundra 2X2 automatic?
Dear Don,
Contact Remco to see if the drive shaft disconnect or lube pump is applicable before looking at towing equipment and braking.
Can a 2007 Saturn Aurora be towed 4 wheels down? Any limitations?
Dear Davey,
I say read the owner's manual. There were some issues with the Saturn that were using the Honda transmission. You might find your answer on the Dinghy Towing Guide (link on our FAQs page at: http://www.rvadvice.com/faqs.html).
I am not familiar with the Aurora.
We recently purchased an RV and plan on dinghy towing a vehicle. The RV hitch is rated at 5,000lbs. We have a H3 that we would like to dinghy tow, but the curb rate for the vehicle is 5,250lbs. Can we tow the H3 with the RV?
The hitch states that the "dinghy tow" rating is "0". The hitch is a class 3 hitch.
Please help! We can't find information anywhere that's provides us a definitive answer on whether or not we can tow the H3 with our RV.
Dear Dawn,
I don't know what kind of coach you have or I would give you a definite answer. You can always upgrade to a class IV receiver if you have enough range not to go over your GCVWR.
The H3 makes a nice dinghy.
I have a 37' Class A motor home with a V-10 gas engine. I want to know if this motor home can tow a 1987 Toyota truck, manual 5 speed transmission.
My question is:Can I safely tow this vehicle for extended periods of time without causing any damage to the towed vehicles transmission/driveline and or do I have to disconnect the drive line?
Dear Candelario,
You should be fine.
I have set up a lot of Toyota five speed manual pick ups without drive shaft disconnects and had no problems.
Looking for a used base plate. I have a 2004 Silverado Z-71 Off Road. I have a Blue Ox tow bar. Can you help?
Dear Bobby,
Square tube frame, yes, I have a set that goes in place of your tow hooks for $100.00. Call my shop if you want: 888-471-9291.
Open 9-5, M-Sat, eastern time zone.
Is it possible to use a tow bar to tow my 2005 PT Cruiser behind my Class C motor home? I have heard you need to use a dolly to tow a PT, which I don't want to deal with. Is that true?
Dear Donna,
You can pull your PT Cruiser four wheels down.
The automatic transmission requires a Remco lube pump; the manual is towable without any drive train modifications.
S-10, 2003, stick: can it be towed by just installing the plate, placing vehicle in neutral and turning the key to unlock the steering? Are there problems I do not for see?
Dear Don,
I think you will be okay but contact Remco to be safe.
Some of the manual transmissions do not lubricate properly in neutral.
I would like to know the difference between a semi pulling two trailer which is called "doubles" and my one ton pick up pulling my fifth wheel and boat trailer under 65 ft which is called "triple" towing, both units have a power unit and two trailers.
Dear Ralph,
Stability! Design characteristics, weight distribution, braking, tire size/equal platform, to mention just a few differences.
I have a 2004 Buick Rainer that I want to tow behind my motor home. I checked the 2004 dinghy towable guide written by Motor Home magazine that stated that I am able to tow my Rainer. I had the dealership order and install the towing kit plus the brake buddy on my Rainer. After installation the dealer stated that I need to refer to my Rainers owner manual to find out the procedure to tow the Rainer. I checked the owner manual on the Rainer and it indicated that I am unable to tow the Rainer!
Do I need to make a modification to the Rainer? Is the Rainer not towable behind the motor home?
Dear Darrel,
I think you will find you also need to install the Remco lube pump.
I just found your site this evening! We just bought a 2005 Jeep Liberty Sport - automatic transmission,4WD. Can we flat tow it behind our 2008 Winnebago View? Heading from Massachusetts to Key West, Florida end of next month - can't wait!
Dear Jack,
Yes, but I think it might be a full load for the View; I could be wrong but I was thinking the View was on the Sprinter chassis and I believe the Liberty would be too heavy.
I have a 1994 V6 4wd automatic Nissan pickup. It has a tow ball on the step bumper. Can I use that to pull a small pop up camper that weighs about 1000 lbs? Or do I have to install a receiver hitch?
Dear John,
For safety I would install a receiver hitch. You might go to a weld shop dealing with hitches and have them inspect your bumper.
Sometimes the weight ratings are stamped in the plate next to the ball.
I have a 1995 Fleetwood Bounder. Marker lights up front were not working, they were getting voltage just bad contact. Fixed that, then had only one in the rear not working, went to fix it and now I have no marker lights all the way around and now tail lights. Head lights work fine. Just no parking lights. Checked fuses under the hood all were good.
Any suggestions? Is there another fuse panel?
Dear Randy,
Look under the dash (instrument cluster), it usually lifts up on the Bounder to expose the fuse panel.
Also, check for power out of the head lamp switch.
Would like to tow a 1999 Grand Cherokee 4x4 with my motor home, which is a 2005 31 foot Holiday Rambler Admiral. I have a Brake Buddy system, and a 10k Blue Ox tow bar. Do I have any other issues with what I have to tow?
Dear Jim,
Make sure you have lights wired in on the car and have your safety cables.
You might want to add a charge line for your battery so the Brake Buddy doesn't drain your battery while towing the car.
What equipment do I need to install on my 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan to tow it on all 4 wheels?
Dear George,
Remco lube pump, tow bar brackets, wiring for lights and an auxiliary braking system.
I have a 1997 Ford F-150 4.2 liter V-6 with a 5 speed standard transmission that I would like to know if I can tow it 4 wheels down without disconnecting the drive shaft?
Dear Charley,
I think I would recommend contacting Remco about a drive shaft disconnect. If it's not applicable or not needed they won't sell it to you.
I have a '96 Damon Ultrasport 3520 Class A motor home and would like to flat tow one of my cars. I have a 2002 Jetta, and a 2006 Jetta. Both are front-wheel drive, manual transmissions. I cannot find any information concerning Volkswagens.
Dear Mike,
You should be able to find equipment to tow your 2002 Jetta, but by 2006 Volkswagon was saying they were no longer towable; so you probably can't get tow bar brackets for the 2006.
Look at the Roadmaster application guide for your 2002 Jetta.
I have a 2003 Chevy Tahoe I'm wanting to pull a Trail Lite 32' at 5500 lbs. Is it possible?
Dear Dean,
If the Tahoe has the tow package and you hitch up properly, yes.
Look at the Hensley Arrow Hitch for your 32' trailer.
I work here at Maroone Ford Delray, I have a customer who has a 48' RV he asked me if he can tow the 2006 Ford Explorer V-6, 4 x 2 behind his camper. Sir I have no idea, I do know the Explorer can tow about 5500 lbs properly equipped, I was hoping you could give me some information on this, maybe some kind of kit or something.
Dear John,
No, sir. The 4x4 with the neutral tow kit can be towed. You may check with Remco but don't think they will do a drive shaft disconnect for that unit.
We have a 2008 Honda Accord (automatic, 4 door), and we thought we could tow 4 wheels down, but haven't been able to find a base plate for the car.
Is this car towable or not? Towed our 2005 Accord without any problems. If we can't tow this one, why not?
Dear David,
You might want to ask Honda. For a few years now Honda has reversed their position on dingy towing. I set up a few '07 Accords for towing after Honda said no. To this day I don't know of anyone having a problem from it. The problem is the bracket kit manufacturers for the tow bars don't do the research to produce product if the automobile manufacturers say it's not towable and the Remco products aren't applicable.
The '07 bracket might work but you would have no warranty on the drive train.
Please let me know if it is possible and a good idea to tow a Nissan Sentra with a Roadmaster tow dolly.
Dear Bob,
Front wheel drive I would say why not.
Rear wheel or all wheel drive I would question.
But I would still suggest towing four wheels down with auxiliary braking if possible.
Can a 2000 Chevy Cavalier with the 4T40E automatic transmission be towed with my RV with all 4 wheels on the road?
I called a Chevrolet dealer and was told no. "The transmission will be done after 35 miles". REMCO says yes it can be towed all 4 down as it is. Can you shed any light on which source is correct? Everywhere I turn I get a different answer.
Dear Art,
The Chevy Cavalier has been towable four wheels down since 1997. If you have a special transmission for some reason that might be considered not towable; but if it's a standard Cavalier it should be no problem.
I have a 2008 GMC 1500 Sierra WT with the 8' box. It has the 4.8 V8 Vortec engine, and the 3:23 rear end. The truck is fitted with the tow package tranny cooler, heavy duty springs etc.
When I purchased the truck the dealer showed me the catalogue and it said the truck could pull 8,000 lbs. Further research and discussions with GM indicate it can only pull 5200lbs.
My question is, is there anything I can do to increase the towing capacity of the truck, ie weight distribution hitch etc.?
What problems should I expect if I pull a trailer that weighs say, 7000 lbs? Will I blow the transmission?
Is GM erring massively on the side of caution here? The trailer dealers tell me the truck can pull 8,000 lbs no problem, but they would say that wouldn't they?
Does anyone have any experience using this as a tow vehicle, and is it capable of towing a larger trailer, or even maybe a 5th wheel?
Dear Andy,
Your problem is going to be not enough engine and wrong gear ratio; you will kill the truck.
I can't imagine GM putting a tow package on with a 3:23 gear ratio. I would say they are stretching it a little at 5,200 pounds.
I own a 1999 Dodge Durango 4x4 5.2L, it did not come with towing package but I installed a hitch, wiring, and transmission cooler. Pulls a pop up great but I want to buy a 1995 Nomad 27ft rated at 4800 lbs dry weight but the old owner claims it weighed in at 5800 lbs loaded.
I know I need a brake controller but is it too much trailer for the Dodge? Most trips are local within 20 to 30 miles.
Dear Chris,
It will be a full load for the Durango. My first question would be, is your receiver rated heavy enough for the trailer?
I have a 2007 Chevrolet pickup extended cab and want to tow it behind my motor home. They say to put the transfer case in neutral and the transmission in park, but what do you do with the key? Does it stay in the ignition, do you take it out? The steering wheel doesn't seem to lock up even when the key is taken out.
Dear Karen,
If the steering wheel doesn't lock take the key out and put it in your pocket.
If the steering wheel locks the key will have to be in the ignition and turned just to the point of unlocking the steering wheel.
I want to tow my 2003 Corolla on a tow dolly behind my 2000 Coachmen Mirada 34" class "A" motor home. My tow dolly is not equipped with brakes. Is it safe to do so? How about the total length of motor home, tow dolly and car?
Dear Roger,
You shouldn't have any worries about length. People pull without auxiliary braking every day but I'm not going to say that is safe.
You might look at converting your dolly to electric brakes.
I have a 1992 30' Bounder RV on Chevy chassis with a 454 engine with approximately 70,000 miles. Is this RV capable of towing a car and if so is there recommended not to exceed weight limit on the dinghy?
Dear Jens,
Yes, it's capable of towing a dinghy; but you need to find the GCVWR of the motor home and subtract the GVWR of the motor home out to see what you're towing capacity is.
You also want to look at the class rating on the receiver and be sure not to exceed the rating on the receiver.
Just bought class C motor home, 1998. What cars can I pull behind and what kind of hitch do I need?
31 foot Four Winds Chateau.
Dear BR,
Look at the Dinghy Towing Guide, link on our FAQs page, for the different models of towable vehicles.
I suggest a very light car with auxiliary braking since the chassis on your 31' Chateau is already maxed out.
You can take a look at the Roadmaster towing products. If there is no receiver on the rear of the coach it could be because there is no weight capacity left for a tow vehicle.
Towing a 2000 Ford Explorer.
We tow a 2000 Ford Explorer behind our motor home. The Explorer has the Ford neutral tow kit installed and works fine. Now I want to install a supplemental braking system on the Explorer.
Has you installed a supplemental braking system on an Explorer and what system did you use? Also, how does it operate without turning off the neutral tow?
Dear Dick,
Look at the M&G auxiliary car braking system. It works great and has no effect on your neutral tow switch.
I have just retired my old faithful Ford 6cyl and bought a Dodge 3/4 ton pick up with 5.7 V8 Hemi with a 5 speed transmission. The differential is 3.92 to one, did I buy enough truck to pull my 30' Hitchhiker which has 8,000 Lbs dry weight?
Dear Reverend Parsons,
I would say very much so, especially since you made the old six cylinder last so long; I have confidence in you.
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