Four Down (Flat Towing or Dinghy Towing): This method involves towing the vehicle with all four of its wheels on the ground. It’s done with a small tow ba. However, not all vehicles are designed for this type of towing.
Tow Dolly: This method involves a tow dolly that supports the front two wheels of the car, while the back two wheels are on the road.
Car Hauler or Trailer: This method involves a trailer that carries the vehicle with all four wheels off the ground.
Regardless of the method you choose, you’ll need some basic equipment:
Trailer Hitch: This is a permanent fixture on your RV. Most RVs come with a hitch, but if yours doesn’t, one can sometimes be added.
Electrical Connections: You must connect wiring from the trailer to the coach. This setup will control the brake lights, turn signals, license plate light, and, in some cases, the electric brakes from the trailer.
Towing a vehicle behind your RV can be a great way to have transportation once you’ve reached your destination.
Check Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity: The weight of the vehicle you want to tow and whether your RV has enough power and capacity to tow it are important factors.
Choose the Right Towing Method: There are three main ways to tow a car behind an RV: four down (flat towing), using a tow dolly, or using a car hauler. The method you choose will depend on your RV’s capabilities and your towed car’s capabilities.
Ensure Proper Connection: Before you hit the road, make sure everything is properly connected. Your RV will need to have a trailer hitch receiver and some electrical connections1.
Maintain Safe Speed and Distance: Always maintain a safe speed and increase your following distance to allow for safe stopping3. Be aware of the added length when turning or changing lanes.
Regularly Check Your Setup: Regularly check your mirrors to ensure the towed car is secure and stable.
Consider a Supplemental Braking System: It’s a good idea to have a supplemental braking system to make stopping safer. It’s also required by law in many places, often depending on the weight of the car.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when towing a vehicle behind an RV?
Towing a vehicle behind an RV can be a complex process, and it’s easy to make mistakes if you’re not careful.
Not Checking Vehicle Compatibility: Not all vehicles can be towed flat (all four wheels on the ground) behind an RV. It’s important to check your vehicle’s manual or consult with the manufacturer to ensure your vehicle is suitable for towing.
Improper Weight Distribution: Improper weight distribution between the trailer and tow vehicle can cause trailer sway, which is a common cause of accidents. It’s important to ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across all axles.
Exceeding Towing Capacity: Overloading your RV beyond its towing capacity can lead to serious problems, including mechanical failure and difficulty controlling the vehicle.
Not Using a Supplemental Braking System: A supplemental braking system can make stopping safer. It’s also required by law in many places, often depending on the weight of the car.
Not Regularly Checking Your Setup: It’s important to regularly check your mirrors to ensure the towed car is secure and stable.
Not Considering the Extra Length When Turning or Changing Lanes: Be aware of the added length when turning or changing lanes.
Not Having the Right Equipment: Your RV will need to have a trailer hitch receiver and some electrical connections.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when towing a vehicle behind an RV. Always double-check everything before you hit the road, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure about something. Safe travels! 🚐💨