Proper Way to Tow a Jeep

You may need to tow your Jeep if making a long-distance move or vacationing with a recreational vehicle. The only proper ways to tow a Jeep are to use a trailer or to use flat or "four wheels down" towing.

Flat Towing

With flat towing, you hook a jeep up to another vehicle using a tow bar. You must put the transfer case in neutral. Doing so disconnects the front and rear driveshafts---a necessity for safe towing. Tighten the lug nuts and remove the front hubs before towing, and wrap the U-joint with duct tape.

Towing with a Trailer

Some Jeep drivers advocate towing Jeeps only on a flatbed trailer, believing that flat towing a Jeep can lead to steering problems, since the Jeep's steering system cannot handle the reverse flow of energy caused by towing.

Concerns about Towing a Jeep

Always check your Jeep's manual for towing instructions. You cannot tow some Jeeps---notably the Jeep Wrangler---using a tow dolly that lifts either its front or rear wheels. Doing so can cause internal damage to the transfer case.

References

• RV Road Trips: How to Tow a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
• Best Jeep Guide: Towing a Jeep