Flat Tow behind an rv
FLAT TOW INSTALLATION
Flat Towing: What You Need to Tow a Vehicle Behind an RV
Flat towing (also called dinghy towing or four-down towing) means pulling a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground behind an RV. It’s a convenient option for road trips, but not every vehicle can be flat towed, and proper equipment and setup are essential for safety and to avoid damage.
Which vehicles can be flat towed
Check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer. Some vehicles are approved for flat towing; others require modifications or can’t be towed this way at all.
Commonly towable vehicles include many front-wheel-drive cars, some rear-wheel-drive and certain SUVs designed with dinghy towing in mind. Full-time all-wheel-drive and many modern automatics often cannot be flat towed without driveline disconnects or other modifications.
Required equipment
Tow Bar: Rigid or articulating tow bar that connects the RV to the vehicle. Choose one rated for the vehicle’s weight and compatible with both RV and car mounting points.
Baseplate: A vehicle-specific mounting bracket bolted to the frame that provides attachment points for the tow bar. Professional installation is recommended.
Safety Cables/Chains: Redundant connections that catch the towed vehicle if the tow bar connection fails. They must be crossed under the hitch and properly rated.
Supplemental Braking System: Most states require the towed vehicle to have a separate braking system that activates the towed vehicle’s brakes when the coach brakes. Available types include proportional, time-delay, and inertia (but check local rules and compatibility).
Lighting/Signal System: Wiring that mirrors the RV’s brake, turn, and running lights on the towed vehicle. Typically a four- or six-way connector is used.
Neutral Lock or Transmission Requirements: Some vehicles need the transmission placed in a specific setting or require a driveline disconnect to prevent transmission damage while being towed.
Breakaway System (if required): A device that applies the towed vehicle’s brakes automatically if it separates from the RV.
Preparation and safety checks
Verify the vehicle is approved for flat towing and you have the correct baseplate and tow bar.
Test the supplemental braking system and light connections before each trip.
Inspect safety cables, hitch connections, and mounting hardware for wear.
Check tire pressure on both coach and towed vehicle; ensure parking brake is released and steering is unlocked.
Practice turns, backing, and emergency stops in a safe area to get comfortable with handling differences.
Follow manufacturer-specified speed limits and towing recommendations.
Modifications and professional help
Some vehicles need driveline disconnect kits, transmission lubrication pumps, or other modifications to be safely flat towed. These are best installed by experienced technicians.
At Prime Tire & Auto Repair we can help verify towability, install baseplates, wiring, and supplemental braking systems, one touch electric battery disconnects, 15amp battery chargers that even lite up when operating properly and perform pre-trip inspections to keep you safe on the road.
Flat towing can make RV travel much easier when done correctly. Always follow the vehicle and equipment manufacturers’ instructions and state laws, and have professional installation or inspection if you’re unsure.
