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Tow Dolly VS flat tow

northshore
Explorer
Explorer
I have a 2013 Toyota RAV4 FWD that I believe can be towed with the use of a tow dolly. The RAV ("for us") is just an ok car, it doesn't live up to expectations, but that is another topic.
Is it better to flat tow VS tow dolly, for you that have experience with either or both methods please give your opinions.
If I decide to flat tow I will more than likely look for a Honda CRV 2014 or older. The other choice may be a, later model Ford Edge v6.
I will be towing it with my 2006 F 350 DRW hauling a Lance 1130 cab over camper.
All opinions are welcome, thank you
17 REPLIES 17

K_Charles
Explorer
Explorer
Of you change cars you only need to get a new hitch for the new car. The to what will work with most any car. The hidden hitch is so cheep I just set up my pickup so I can tow ether that or my car.
Two pins, two cables and a wire plug, that is all you need to book up or unhook. Nothing to pick up, move, or carry.

wildtoad
Explorer II
Explorer II
I have only flat towed and won’t do any other way. I agree 100% with the above but in addition:

- you do have to add a towbar to every car you will flat tow so changing cars could be pricey. Just went through that.

- the number of cars that can be flat towed is decreasing. Not sure how going electric will affect.
Tom Wilds
Blythewood, SC
2016 Newmar Baystar Sport 3004
2015 Jeep Wrangler 2dr HT

rk911
Explorer
Explorer
lots of dolly vs flat posts on rv.net as well as irv2.com...check the archives.

in a nutshell...

- you first need to calculate the total amount of weight you can safely tow. with a dolly you need to include the weight of the dolly in that calculation.

- one less set of wheels to deal with at the campground.

- easier to hookup and disconnect in the rain

- virtually no tongue weight on the hitch.

- but you do have a larger selection of vehicles to choose from. that's about the only positive that i can see.

we flat tow and recommend it.
Rich
Ham Radio, Sport Pilot, Retired 9-1-1 Call Center Administrator
_________________________________
2016 Itasca Suncruiser 38Q
'46 Willys CJ2A
'23 Jeep Wrangler JL
'10 Jeep Liberty KK

& MaggieThe Wonder Beagle