Recreational vehicle towing means towing the vehicle behind another vehicle - such as behind a motorhome. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as "dinghy towing" -- towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, and "dolly towing" -- towing the vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a "dolly".
Here are some important things to consider before recreational vehicle towing:
| • | What is the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure to read the tow vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. |
| • | What is the distance that will be travelled? Some vehicles have restrictions on how far and how long they can tow. |
| • | Is the proper towing equipment going to be used? See your dealer/retailer or trailering professional for additional advice and equipment recommendations. |
| • | Is the vehicle ready to be towed? Just as preparing the vehicle for a long trip, make sure the vehicle is prepared to be towed. See Before Leaving on a Long Trip. |
Dinghy Towing
Notice: If the vehicle is towed with all four wheels on the ground, the drivetrain components could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not tow the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground.
The vehicle was not designed to be towed with all four wheels on the ground. If the vehicle must be towed, use a dolly. See "Dolly Towing" later in this section for more information.
Dolly Towing (Rear-Wheel-Drive Vehicles) (STS Only)
Notice: Dolly towing or dinghy towing the vehicle may cause damage because of reduced ground clearance. Always tow the vehicle using the towing procedures listed in this section or put the vehicle on a flatbed truck or trailer.
Rear-wheel drive vehicles can be towed using a dolly. To tow the vehicle using a dolly, follow these steps:
- Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.
- Drive the rear wheels onto the dolly.
- Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake.
- Put the transmission in P (Park).
- Secure the vehicle to the dolly following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Use an adequate clamping device designed for towing to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position.
- Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
Dolly Towing (STS-V)
Notice: Dolly towing or dinghy towing the vehicle may cause damage because of reduced ground clearance. Always put the vehicle on a flatbed truck or trailer.
The STS-V can only be towed on a flat-bed truck or trailer.
Dolly Towing (All-Wheel-Drive Vehicles)
Notice: Towing an all-wheel-drive vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, or even with only two of its wheels on the ground, will damage drivetrain components. Do not tow an all-wheel-drive vehicle with any of its wheels on the ground.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicles can only be towed on a flat-bed truck or trailer.
