Towing Issues: towing, wheel dolly, friction heat


Question
Can I tow my 2001 ford ranger with a v6, automatic trans, behind my motorhome, without damaging the ranger?


Answer
Automatic transmission should not be towed for a great distance with the engine not running.  Auto transmission requir a pump to pump oil to them and this only occurs when the engine is running.  If you tow for more than 25 miles at over 35 MPH you can damage the transmission from friction heat and lack of lubrication.

In order to do it safely, you must disconnect the drive shaft from the transaxle. (Where it is connected to the rear axle.)  Do this in the following manner:  1. Disconnect the four bolts that connect the shaft to the transaxle. 2. Slide the whole drive shaft forwar a couple inches to clear it from the transaxle. (DO NOT pull the drive shaft out of where it slides into the transmission.  All of your oil will leak out.)  3. Use a wire or bungee cord (in good strong condition) to secure the drive shaft to the frame of the undercarriage.  

You are now safe to tow it as far and as fast as you wish.

Just reverse the order when you're ready to drive it.

If this is not feasible (you're going to being disconnecting from the motorhome and driving it frequently) then my strongest advise is to purchase or rent a two wheel dolly and tow the Ranger with the rear wheels off the ground.