How to Tow With a 5-Speed

A five-speed transmission adds complexity for a driver towing a trailer.

Towing a trailer is a skill learned through experience behind the wheel. Learning how to tow with a vehicle that has a five-speed transmission adds complexity to the task. Clutching and shifting a manual transmission increases the number of jobs the driver must concentrate on. This reduces the driver's attention on the road and can create a dangerous situation. A five-speed transmission also requires the driver to use more clutch during acceleration to increase the engine's torque at the drive wheels.

Instructions

1. Determine the maximum towing capacity of the tow vehicle by looking in its owner's manual. The trailer's mass plus the cargo it's carrying must not exceed this rating.

2. Reverse the vehicle up to the trailer so that its hitch is directly under its coupler. Lower the trailer onto the hitch and lock the coupler in place with a cotter pin.

3. Attach the trailer's chains to the vehicle's hitch by crossing them under the coupler. Fasten the trailer's electrical connections to the vehicle's electrical receiver.

4. Push the vehicle's clutch to the floor and place the transmission in first gear. Feather the clutch outward while adding a little gas to accelerate.

5. Reduce the amount of downshifting you use to slow the vehicle because the weight of the trailer increases the wear on the clutch pads.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice towing on a quiet country road or abandoned parking lot until you are comfortable with the additional weight behind the vehicle.

References

• Florida Horse; Tow Vehicle Considerations; Greg Murphy; November 2004
• Lets Getaway: How Do I Choose the Right Tow Vehicle?

Resources

• Sherline: Trailer Loading and Towing Guide
• Towing World: Towing Laws Listed by State