What if cars/trucks stopped becoming towable four down?

[Neal]

Could it happen? Would we all need dollies to tow our toads? Can you imagine the situation at campgrounds if so?

 

[GypsyR]

I bought a dolly that stands on its tail when not in use. Up against the rear bumper of the coach means I require just under an extra three feet of parking space. Right about the same amount of extra room I need if I am using a motorcycle carrier instead.

 

[Voyageurs]

Dollys don’t take up much room.

I suspect there will always be cars that can be towed four down.

 

[Buster]

Might have to switch over to something more streamlined.

 

[sheridany]

stacker all the way. I have seen some really impressive setups. Carry two cars with a lift and a sled to get the vehicles in. We could probably get your airplane into one. Some disassembly and assembly required.

 

[Joe Hogan]

From my read of the automobile trends, electronic controlled transmissions are becoming the norm. These transmissions, unless specifically designed to accommodate Flat Towing, will not tolerate flat towing.
Computer controlled transmission has the lubrication pump driven by the engine. When engine is stopped, no lubrication. Some automatic transmissions are designed to retain some lubrication and are designed to be towed a relatively short distance but need periodic engine start and gear selection for lubrication.

Not all manual transmission will tolerate being flat towed. This is why when an 18 wheeler is towed the drive shaft is disconnected, even manual transmission trucks.

Fewer and fewer vehicle manufacturers see the need to provide this feature nor willing to accept the liability for tow mistakes by operators.

RV Driver Annihilates Their New Jeep Wrangler by Flat-Towing It in 4-Low

This is what a Jeep engine looks like when revved to 50,000 rpm.

www.thedrive.com

 

[Voyageurs]

I suspect sooner or later you will see electric vehicle models that are towable four down. Rivian initially indicated that the R1T would be 4 down towable but changed their mind at the last minute. I’m sure it’s a software issue.

 

[Joe Hogan]

For those that want to see what happens when you tow an 18 wheeler without removing the driveshaft ...