Tow vehicle specs

[smithrhjr]

We currently have a 5th wheel and are thinking about a Class A and hitting the road. Thinking about a tow vehicle. I am thinking Jeep Wrangler, but have no idea what the specs need to be. Mainly, if flat towing do I need a manual trans? What connections do I need for the brake lights to work. Or is having the front wheels off hte road better? Totally uninformed here. Thoughts please!!!!

[rk911]

most, not all, jeeps can be flat towed with either manual or automatic transmission. best to check the owner’s manual for the specufic year and model jeep you’re looking at. directions should be in a section titled “Recreational Towing” or similar wording.

you’re also going to need a baseplate for the jeep, a towbar and an auxillary braking system. lots of choices for these.

but before you buy anything make sure you know how much weight you can safely tow. a quick way is to subtract the GVWR from the GCWR but that won’t tell the complete story. so let’s say the curb weight of the jeep you want weighs in at 4200-lbs but your MH’s specs indicates the GCWR - the GCWR is only 4000-lbs. that jeep is too heavy.

and be sure the hitch on the MH is rated to tow the weight of the jeep. even some diesels gave 5000-lb hitches. even if the tow bar is rated for more weight than the GCWR-GVWR test you’re stuck with the smaller figure.

the best way is to get actual axle weights of the MH you’ve bought or will be buying. or at least calculate those weights.

[Lwiddis]

Don’t buy any vehicle to use as a four down toad unless the manufacturer says you can and you comply with any requirements. For instance, 2020 Chevy Equinox...two wheel drive...four down ok...all wheel drive...no. You may need a dolly depending on the toad you buy but they are a pain...three vehicles instead of two.