2002 Tracker; Setting up to Tow

Rolin and all other Tracker towers with 4x4 automatic and transfer case. After owning a 1995 geo tracker with manual hubs and a 2002 chevy tracker with automatic electric hubs and transfer case both with approximately 50,000 miles on each I found early on that when you drive up to hook up if you don't remove the key the lock assembly stays unlocked. I forgot once and towed about 350 miles that day with out turning key to accessory position and the steering wheel turns. Try it. The power to my Brake Buddy through accessory power still works when key is not turned on. I usually travel 200 to 400 miles and have never stopped to run engine. Both vehicles have over 150,000 driven miles on them with 50,000 towed miles. No abnormal consequences. I use magnetic lights and a wi-fi enabled control device for lights.