Can I tow a Ford Escape on a tow dolly?
Towing a vehicle can be a daunting task, especially if you're unsure about the specifics of your car's capabilities. If you're considering towing a Ford Escape using a tow dolly, it's essential to understand the vehicle's specifications and the proper towing techniques to ensure a safe and efficient process. In this article, we'll explore whether a Ford Escape can be towed on a tow dolly and provide some helpful tips for a successful towing experience.
Understanding Tow Dollies
A tow dolly is a two-wheeled trailer that allows you to tow a vehicle with its front wheels off the ground while the rear wheels remain on the road. This method is commonly used for front-wheel-drive vehicles, making it a popular choice for many car owners. However, not all vehicles are suitable for towing on a dolly.
Can You Tow a Ford Escape on a Tow Dolly?
Yes, you can tow a Ford Escape on a tow dolly, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
- Front-Wheel Drive: The Ford Escape is primarily a front-wheel-drive vehicle, which makes it compatible with tow dollies. When towing, the front wheels should be on the dolly, while the rear wheels remain on the ground.
- Transmission Considerations: It's crucial to ensure that the transmission is in the correct position to avoid damage. For most models, you should place the transmission in "Neutral" before towing.
- Weight Limits: Always check the weight limits of your tow dolly and ensure that it can handle the weight of your Ford Escape. The Escape typically weighs between 3,000 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the model and year.
Tips for Towing Your Ford Escape
To ensure a smooth towing experience, consider the following tips:
- Check Your Owner's Manual: Always refer to your Ford Escape's owner's manual for specific towing instructions and recommendations.
- Inspect the Tow Dolly: Before hitting the road, inspect the tow dolly for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure that the tires are properly inflated and that all lights are functioning.
- Secure the Vehicle: Make sure that your Ford Escape is securely fastened to the tow dolly using the provided straps or chains to prevent any movement during transit.
- Practice Safe Driving: When towing, be mindful of your speed and braking distance. Towing a vehicle can affect your vehicle's handling, so drive cautiously.
Conclusion
Towing a Ford Escape on a tow dolly is a feasible option, provided you follow the necessary precautions and guidelines. By understanding your vehicle's specifications and preparing adequately, you can ensure a safe and successful towing experience. If you have any further questions or need assistance with towing or vehicle maintenance, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tow an SUV with a tow dolly?
Vehicle compatibility
There is also a weight restriction for a tow dolly. Front-wheel-drive vehicles have to weigh less than 3,450 pounds, and rear-wheel-drive vehicles less than 3,900 pounds. There are no such restrictions on auto transport. An auto transport company can move vehicles of all shapes, sizes, and weight.
What happens if you tow an AWD on a dolly?
Those with a permanent AWD system towed on two wheels would have not only their transmission damaged but also the couplings and other drive components.
Why is a tow dolly not recommended?
Tow dollies cannot handle as much weight as other car trailers. Usually, if you hire tow dollies from a moving trailer company or simply hire a towing company, these dollies will not be able to support either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive cars that exceed 3450 lbs.
How to tow a 2017 Ford Escape?
So let's say you want to tow a new Ford Escape. You can protect it from wear and tear by hitching the Escape to a tow dolly- but only if it's front wheel drive. Otherwise, your best bet is to use a trailer to tow your Ford Escape.
Can a Ford Escape be towed?
It depends on the model. Ford endorses towing certain Escapes behind an RV but prohibits flat towing for others. Check out the chart below for a synopsis of what the Ford Escape owner's manuals have to say (note: you should always double check flat towing instructions in your owner's manual).
What Ford models can be flat towed?
Ford Models That Can Be Flat Towed
- Ford Bronco (4x4 models with manual or automatic transmission)
- Ford F-150 (4x4 models with a neutral tow feature)
- Ford Ranger (4x4 models with manual transfer case)
- Ford Edge (AWD models)
- Ford Escape (hybrid models only)
- Ford Expedition (4x4 models with proper towing configurations)
Is it OK to tow an automatic car in neutral?
Can you tow an automatic car in neutral? Even if you put an automatic car in neutral, pulling or pushing the automatic transmission when the engine is off will cause the gears to run without lubrication. So, no, putting the car in neutral does not enable you to tow an automatic car with a tow rope.
What cars should you not tow with a tow dolly?
All Wheel Drive – AWD cars should not be used on a tow dolly.
Does a car have to be in neutral to tow on a tow dolly?
When towing a vehicle with rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive on a tow dolly, you must disconnect and secure the driveshaft. Towing in neutral is not sufficient to prevent transmission damage. Prior to towing with a tow dolly, check both vehicles to ensure proper tire pressure.
Can you tow an AWD car on a dolly?
Technically, you can tow an AWD car on its wheels, but to do so will require some mechanical work. You would need to disengage the driveshaft completely and then secure it or remove it.
