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Member Title: Can I tow a 2WD, like an Explorer by backing it onto a tow dolly?
Members debated whether a 2WD automatic Ford Explorer can be safely towed by backing it onto a tow dolly. The original poster considered this method to avoid removing the drive shaft, but most experienced RVers cautioned against it for long distances or highway speeds. Several pointed out that while tow trucks sometimes move vehicles this way for short hauls, it’s not ideal for owner-driven towing due to potential tracking and steering issues, especially if the front wheels aren’t secured...
Members debated whether a 2WD automatic Ford Explorer can be safely towed by backing it onto a tow dolly. The original poster considered this method to avoid removing the drive shaft, but most experienced RVers cautioned against it for long distances or highway speeds. Several pointed out that while tow trucks sometimes move vehicles this way for short hauls, it’s not ideal for owner-driven towing due to potential tracking and steering issues, especially if the front wheels aren’t secured straight.
Consensus emerged that using a drive shaft disconnect kit is a safer and more reliable solution, allowing either flat towing or dolly towing without risking transmission damage. Some members referenced past experiences with similar vehicles, noting that older Explorers (pre-201 could sometimes be towed four wheels down in neutral, but always recommended checking the owner’s manual for specific guidance. The discussion also highlighted the importance of keeping the towed vehicle’s battery charged and consulting a trusted transmission shop for installation advice.
I know that sounds crazy, but I have access to an older 2WD explorer. Its an automatic. I know I can't dolly it without taking the drive shaft off, but I was thinking I could just back onto the dolly? anyone done that? I did just also see that they make drive shaft disconnects for Explorers so I think I'll look into that. that would be a way safer option I think,
Problem might be in keeping the steering straight when front wheels are down?
Might suggest looking for the owners manul on that year, modle Explorer as there are some which can be towed four down if we leave the transmision powered?
Bit of pain to get that wired but I did have a Ford Escort with automatic and it worked with the right wiring.
Check for "recreational towing" for that Car? Maybe better than drive shaft change??
Not one I have done!
The one time I tried to tow a vehicle similar to the Explorer in question it did not tow well, it wanted to wander and oscillate. I ended up dropping the drive shaft. They do make a drive shaft disconnect kit that may be an option. If you go that route you could flat tow it or dolly tow.
Prior to 2018 you could tow an Explorer 4 down in neutral. I did for many years. Now I tow a 2023 Ford Bronco 4 down with no problems.
BTW. I have a 12 volt line from the RV to the Bronco battery. Do not let the battery go dead.
The one time I tried to tow a vehicle similar to the Explorer in question it did not tow well, it wanted to wander and oscillate. I ended up dropping the drive shaft. They do make a drive shaft disconnect kit that may be an option. If you go that route you could flat tow it or dolly tow.
I know that sounds crazy, but I have access to an older 2WD explorer. Its an automatic. I know I can't dolly it without taking the drive shaft off, but I was thinking I could just back onto the dolly? anyone done that? I did just also see that they make drive shaft disconnects for Explorers so I think I'll look into that. that would be a way safer option I think,
Don't see why not back in the day when I drove wreckers (before car carriers)we would pick them up from the rear ,secure steering wheel. (straight) and tow them to where they needed to be.
Don't see why not. Back in the day we used to tow vehicles with a wrecker from the rear.Just make sure front wheels are straight and steering wheel is secure. This was before car carriers were common.
My thoughts on towing with the front down is different than when doing a tow truck thing.
Distance, speed, and how often are two points but also who owns the result!
Not to be offensive but tow trucks are not famous for taking good care of the car like an owner might. I want those tires to track as well as possible to last as long as possible.
Yeah I have done some more reading, and most concur that for a short distance it's OK but not really recommended for long distance especially at speed. Lots of factors at play there but most sources agree it's a bad idea The logic is pretty sound. Im going to look into one of those driveshaft disconnects. I have a pretty good relationship with a local tranny shop so I'm going to put in a call to them and ask about it.
I really appreciate all the feedback. This site is fantastic for bouncing ideas around since there is so much experience here. Thanks!
Yeah I have done some more reading, and most concur that for a short distance it's OK but not really recommended for long distance especially at speed. Lots of factors at play there but most sources agree it's a bad idea The logic is pretty sound. Im going to look into one of those driveshaft disconnects. I have a pretty good relationship with a local tranny shop so I'm going to put in a call to them and ask about it.
I really appreciate all the feedback. This site is fantastic for bouncing ideas around since there is so much experience here. Thanks!
Get driveline shaft coupling services that will enable your rear-wheel drive vehicle to be towed without damage. We work on cars, vans, SUVs, and pickup trucks.
I towed my Ford Ranger front wheels on the ground rear on the dolly for about 5 years- about 50,000 miles then towed a Chevy S-10 the same way. It worked great. It can be done easily and safely if the steering wheel is tied down straight,. It is important to add weight over the rear wheels on the dolly to offset the higher weight of the engine being forward over the front wheels on the ground to avoid any sway. I always loaded the bed with tools, extra spare tires, and camping equipment that was needed anyway. It worked great and I never had any issues as long as I inlcuded the extra weight over the rear wheels on the dolly. I never disconnected a drive shaft to tow it rear on the ground
I know that sounds crazy, but I have access to an older 2WD explorer. Its an automatic. I know I can't dolly it without taking the drive shaft off, but I was thinking I could just back onto the dolly? anyone done that? I did just also see that they make drive shaft disconnects for Explorers so I think I'll look into that. that would be a way safer option I think,
No. Caster, camber, and especially toe in should explain why. Also, never, ever listen to a tow truck driver when it comes to pulling anything more than 50 yards.
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could sometimes be towed four wheels down in neutral, but always recommended checking the owner’s manual for specific guidance. The discussion also highlighted the importance of keeping the towed vehicle’s battery charged and consulting a trusted transmission shop for installation advice.