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HuntMakDad's avatar
HuntMakDad
Explorer
Sep 12, 2015

Flat towing GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid 4WD

Hi;
Does anyone have any experience or knowledge regarding flat towing a 2011 Yukon Denali Hybrid 4wd? I purchased one for this reason and outfitted in with Demco base plates. The owners manual says to put the transfer case in neutral, put the transmission in park, turn the ignition switch off and remove the key. When I attempt to tow, the front wheels do not turn freely at all. They bind and put a lot of strain on the brackets even bending them slightly. I have made 2 separate 500 mile trips but it doesn't seem correct. We had a 2009 Suburban 4wd we flat towed the same way and never had a problem. Wondering if it has something to do with the steering column locking up. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

7 Replies

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  • The_Texan's avatar
    The_Texan
    Explorer
    Sep 13, 2015
    GM stopped installing a steering locks in their trucks in 2002, so there is no reason to check for one. I would call the special customer service number in your manual and ask to speak to a trained technician about the problem. A Hybrid is a whole different animal than the normal 4x4 system.
  • HuntMakDad's avatar
    HuntMakDad
    Explorer
    Sep 13, 2015
    I will try both of those suggestions. Thank you for the response. We have been flat towing vehicles for years behind our rig and never had any issues. This one just doesn't feel safe. Thanks again.
  • mowermech's avatar
    mowermech
    Explorer
    Sep 13, 2015
    Have a trusted mechanic check the steering for a lock mechanism. If it is there, have him (or her) remove it and dispose of the parts.
    It is not required by law, and you don't need it and for towing you don't want it!
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Sep 13, 2015
    HuntMakDad wrote:
    Yes, that's exactly what I have been doing and front wheels still bind. Wondering if leaving ignition key 1 click forward to release steering column from locking may solve issue. Thanks for the response.



    Can you remove key with it in that position....nothing turned on that would drain battery?
  • HuntMakDad's avatar
    HuntMakDad
    Explorer
    Sep 13, 2015
    Yes, that's exactly what I have been doing and front wheels still bind. Wondering if leaving ignition key 1 click forward to release steering column from locking may solve issue. Thanks for the response.
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Sep 12, 2015
    Transmission on 'PARK'

    Transfer Case in 'NEUTRAL'

    Parking Brake OFF

    Ignition key to LOCK/OFF position and remove


    When you turn key to LOCK/OFF position steering wheel should still be able to turn freely.

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