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 and dolly towing. Dinghy towing is towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Dolly towing is 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, a dolly should be used. See "Dolly Towing" that follows for more information.
Dolly Towing From the Front
The vehicle can be towed from the front 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 front wheels onto the dolly.
- Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in N (Neutral).
- Set the parking brake and remove the key.
- For an automatic transmission, insert the key into the shift-lock release slot and shift to N (Neutral). See Shifting Out of Park.
- Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position with a clamping device designed for towing.
- Release the parking brake.
Dolly Towing From the Rear
Notice: Towing the vehicle from the rear with the front wheels on the ground could cause transmission damage. Do not tow the vehicle from the rear with the front wheels on the ground.
