List of automatic transmission cars that can be flat towed
Automatic Transmission Vehicles⁚ Flat Towing Considerations
When selecting a vehicle for flat towing‚ it’s crucial to consider its automatic transmission capabilities․ Not all automatic transmission vehicles are suitable for this type of towing․ Proper research is essential to ensure the safety and longevity of both the towing and towed vehicles․
Introduction
Flat towing‚ also known as dinghy towing‚ is a popular method for transporting a vehicle behind a motorhome or RV․ It involves connecting the towed vehicle to the towing vehicle using a tow bar and safety cables‚ and it allows the towed vehicle’s wheels to rotate freely on the ground․ However‚ not all vehicles are suitable for flat towing‚ and it’s crucial to consider the vehicle’s transmission type before attempting this method․
Automatic transmissions‚ in particular‚ require special attention when it comes to flat towing․ Unlike manual transmissions‚ which can be easily disconnected from the drivetrain‚ automatic transmissions are constantly engaged with the engine․ This means that if the towed vehicle’s wheels are rotating while the engine is not running‚ the transmission can be damaged․
To avoid transmission damage‚ it’s essential to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual and verify if it is approved for flat towing․ Some automatic transmission vehicles may require special equipment or modifications to enable safe flat towing․
If you’re considering flat towing a vehicle with an automatic transmission‚ it’s highly recommended to seek guidance from a qualified mechanic or RV towing expert․ They can assess your vehicle’s suitability for flat towing and provide recommendations for any necessary modifications or equipment․
Automatic Transmissions and Flat Towing
Automatic transmissions are more complex than manual transmissions and require special considerations for flat towing; Unlike manual transmissions‚ which can be easily disconnected from the drivetrain‚ automatic transmissions are constantly engaged with the engine․ This means that if the towed vehicle’s wheels are rotating while the engine is not running‚ the transmission can be damaged․
To avoid transmission damage‚ it’s crucial to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual and verify if it is approved for flat towing․ Some automatic transmission vehicles may require special equipment or modifications to enable safe flat towing․
One common method for flat towing automatic transmission vehicles is to use a tow dolly․ A tow dolly lifts the towed vehicle’s front wheels off the ground‚ allowing them to rotate freely without engaging the transmission․
Another option is to use a supplemental braking system․ This system helps to slow down the towed vehicle and reduces the strain on the towing vehicle’s brakes․ It’s important to note that some states and provinces require supplemental braking systems for flat towing․
If you’re considering flat towing a vehicle with an automatic transmission‚ it’s highly recommended to seek guidance from a qualified mechanic or RV towing expert․ They can assess your vehicle’s suitability for flat towing and provide recommendations for any necessary modifications or equipment․
Towable Automatic Transmission Vehicles
Not all automatic transmission vehicles are suitable for flat towing․ It’s crucial to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual and verify if it is approved for this type of towing․ Some popular automatic transmission vehicles that are commonly flat towed include⁚
- Jeep Wrangler (with proper equipment and modifications)
- Ford F-150 (with four-wheel drive and manual transfer case)
- Chevrolet Silverado (with four-wheel drive and manual transfer case)
- Ram 1500 (with four-wheel drive and manual transfer case)
- Toyota Tacoma (with four-wheel drive and manual transfer case)
- Honda CR-V (with all-wheel drive and special towing package)
- Subaru Outback (with all-wheel drive and special towing package)
- Volkswagen Tiguan (with all-wheel drive and special towing package)
It’s important to note that even if a vehicle is approved for flat towing‚ it may require special equipment or modifications to ensure safe and reliable towing․ Always consult with a qualified mechanic or RV towing expert for specific recommendations and guidance․
