- why-safe-towing-matters-on-rv-trips
- choosing-the-right-method-for-towing-your-car
- setting-up-your-towing-equipment-correctly
- driving-habits-and-road-awareness
- true-story-a-close-call-in-the-mountains
- maintenance-and-periodic-checks-while-towing
- trusting-professional-help-when-needed
1. Why Safe Towing Matters on RV Trips
Towing a car behind an RV offers the freedom to explore side destinations without moving your entire rig. However, it comes with serious responsibilities. Improper towing not only risks damaging both vehicles but also endangers your safety and that of others on the road.
From sway and brake failure to clearance issues on tight turns, accidents from poor towing practices are more common than many realize. Being prepared and educated can prevent costly repairs—or worse, tragic outcomes.
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2. Choosing the Right Method for Towing Your Car
One of the most critical decisions you’ll make is selecting the appropriate towing method. The three main options are:
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2.1 Flat Towing (Four Wheels Down)
Flat towing involves pulling the car with all four wheels on the road. It’s convenient and fast to hook up, but not all cars are designed for this. You’ll need to check the owner's manual or consult a technician. Flat towing also requires a base plate, tow bar, and supplemental braking system.
2.2 Dolly Towing
In this setup, the car’s front wheels are lifted onto a two-wheeled dolly. It works well for front-wheel-drive vehicles and requires less modification. However, it may be trickier to store when not in use.
2.3 Trailer Towing
Using a flatbed trailer means all four car wheels are off the ground, making it the safest for the towed vehicle. Though it's bulkier and costlier, it offers maximum protection, especially for luxury or AWD cars.
For reliable towing setups and accessories, check out Rescue & Towing—we carry products suited for every towing method and RV model.
3. Setting Up Your Towing Equipment Correctly
Even the best equipment can fail if it’s installed improperly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help for the initial setup.
3.1 Matching Vehicle Weights and Capacities
Your RV must be rated to handle the additional weight. Exceeding the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) leads to overheating brakes, transmission damage, and loss of control. Know your numbers before you hit the road.
3.2 Safety Chains and Brake Systems
Never tow without backup safety chains and a legally required supplemental braking system. They are not optional—they’re your lifeline if the hitch fails or you need sudden braking at high speed.
3.3 Lights and Wiring
The towed car needs to mirror the RV’s turn signals and brake lights. Proper wiring is key. Faulty light connections not only cause confusion on the road but can also lead to tickets and accidents.
4. Driving Habits and Road Awareness
Towing a car changes how your RV handles. Braking distance increases, turning becomes wider, and reversing can be near impossible with certain setups.
4.1 Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Accelerate gently, avoid sudden stops, and never tailgate. Leave extra space and anticipate traffic conditions ahead of time. Windy days? Reduce your speed to maintain control over your extended load.
4.2 Avoid Tight Spots
Plan your routes in advance to avoid low clearances, narrow roads, or places with limited turnarounds. Use RV-friendly GPS systems for safer route planning.
5. True Story: A Close Call in the Mountains
James and his wife were towing their sedan behind a Class A RV through Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. They underestimated the strain of elevation changes and ignored a grinding noise from the hitch. Midway up a steep incline, the tow bar snapped. The sedan veered off the shoulder, narrowly missing a tree.
It was a terrifying moment—but also a wake-up call. They later learned the tow bar was mismatched for their vehicle's weight. After replacing it with certified equipment and consulting a towing specialist at Rescue & Towing, they resumed their travels more confidently.
This case proves that towing isn’t just technical—it’s about vigilance, preparation, and respect for the road.
6. Maintenance and Periodic Checks While Towing
On long journeys, you can’t just set it and forget it. Stop regularly to inspect hitch connections, tire pressures, wiring, and brake lines. Look for wear, loose bolts, or unusual sounds.
6.1 Tire Health Matters
Your towed vehicle's tires are still rotating and can suffer punctures or blowouts. Keep them inflated to the right pressure and monitor wear before each leg of your trip.
6.2 Greasing and Lubrication
Moving parts like tow bar joints and hitch pivots need regular lubrication. This reduces friction and helps prevent wear that could lead to failure on the road.
7. Trusting Professional Help When Needed
Not every RVer is a towing expert—and that’s okay. When in doubt, it’s smarter to consult professionals than to risk dangerous DIY setups. From matching equipment to legal compliance, experts can help ensure every trip is safe.
Rescue & Towing connects you with experienced mechanics, product specialists, and roadside assistance for when the unexpected happens. Whether you're new to RV life or a seasoned nomad, having trusted help on your side is the best tip of all.
