Can I 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. Towing a Ford Escape, or any vehicle, requires following specific guidelines to ensure the safety of both the towed vehicle and the towing setup.
Understanding Tow Dolly Towing
A tow dolly is a two-wheeled trailer that lifts the front wheels of a vehicle off the ground while the rear wheels remain on the dolly. This method of towing is often used for vehicles that cannot be flat-towed (all four wheels on the ground) due to transmission or drivetrain limitations.
Towing a Ford Escape on a Tow Dolly
When towing a Ford Escape on a tow dolly, there are several important steps to follow:
- Ensure the Ford Escape is in neutral and the parking brake is engaged.
- Properly secure the front wheels of the Ford Escape to the tow dolly using the appropriate straps or tie-downs.
- Check that the tow dolly is rated for the weight of the Ford Escape, which can range from around 3,500 to 4,000 pounds, depending on the model year and configuration.
- Adjust the tow dolly's suspension and wheel positioning to ensure the Ford Escape is level and stable during towing.
- Verify that the tow dolly's lights, turn signals, and brakes are functioning correctly and connected to the towing vehicle.
- Adhere to the speed limit and driving conditions recommended by the tow dolly manufacturer and the Ford Escape owner's manual.
Following these guidelines will help ensure the safe and proper towing of a Ford Escape on a tow dolly.
Considerations and Limitations
It's important to note that while towing a Ford Escape on a tow dolly is generally possible, there may be some limitations or restrictions to consider:
- Some Ford Escape models may have specific towing requirements or limitations, so it's essential to consult the owner's manual or contact a Ford dealer for guidance.
- Towing a Ford Escape on a tow dolly may not be suitable for long-distance or high-speed towing, as it can put additional stress on the vehicle's components.
- The tow dolly must be properly maintained and inspected to ensure it can safely support the weight and dimensions of the Ford Escape.
- Towing a Ford Escape on a tow dolly may affect the vehicle's handling and braking, so extra caution and skill are required when driving the towing setup.
By understanding the proper procedures and considerations, you can safely tow a Ford Escape on a tow dolly, but it's always best to consult with a professional or the vehicle manufacturer for specific guidance.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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)
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.
