|
TIPS FOR SAFE TOWING COMPLETE LIST OF NEW TOWABLES ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES
2010 GUIDE TO
DINGHYTOWING
SUPPLEMENT TO MOTORHOME MARCH 2010
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 1
Patriottrade Braking System
The Patriot from Blue Ox gives you the comfort needed for when yoursquore
braking your tow vehicle Not only is it convenient and easy to store but it also
proportionally applies the brakes while yoursquore slowing down to stop instead of
suddenly jolting your tow vehicle causing costly damage to your brakes
All Blue Ox braking systems come with a one year warranty
or air hoses
moves smoothly and proportionally
from coach
coach with wireless remote
air cylinder
similar braking systems
brake and remote
onoff switch
push of one button
pedal clamp
back of unit to seat
for model information
(Left) On the brake itself there is an easy-to-read LED display complete with one set up button a breakaway plug-in manual adjust-ment for sensitivity onoff switch and an auxiliary 12-volt connection
(Right) In-coach controller complete with a manual brake lever easy-to-read LED display and gain adjustment
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom
DTG122109
Patent Pending
Patriottrade Braking System
The Patriot from Blue Ox gives you the comfort needed for when yoursquore
braking your tow vehicle Not only is it convenient and easy to store but it also
proportionally applies the brakes while yoursquore slowing down to stop instead of
suddenly jolting your tow vehicle causing costly damage to your brakes
All Blue Ox braking systems come with a one year warranty
or air hoses
moves smoothly and proportionally
from coach
coach with wireless remote
air cylinder
similar braking systems
brake and remote
onoff switch
push of one button
pedal clamp
back of unit to seat
for model information
(Left) On the brake itself there is an easy-to-read LED display complete with one set up button a breakaway plug-in manual adjust-ment for sensitivity onoff switch and an auxiliary 12-volt connection
(Right) In-coach controller complete with a manual brake lever easy-to-read LED display and gain adjustment
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom
DTG122109
Patent Pending
Blu
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emag
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eco
min
fo
002-MH1003 Dnghy-Intro-Mas 122309 352 PM Page 2
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 3
PublisherBob LivingstonArt DirectorSusie Lieu AlmazanEditorEileen HubbardSenior Managing EditorPatricia MarroquinAssistant EditorMeaghan AlfierContributorsGary Bohinc Rich Cox Chris Hemer
EDITORIALBUSINESS OFFICE2575 Vista Del Mar Drive Ventura CA 93001 FAX 805-667-4484 E-MAILInfomotorhomemagazinecom
ADVERTISINGVentura CaliforniaVPNational SalesTerry ThompsonBusiness ManagerDenielle SternburgPO Box 8510 Ventura CA 93002 TEL 805-667-4100FAX 805-667-4379
Elkhart IndianaMidwest Sales DirectorChuck LasleyNational Advertising SalesTacy Hendershot Lou Cicirelli2300 Middlebury Street Elkhart IN 46516TEL 574-295-7820 FAX 574-522-0418
Seattle WashingtonNational Advertising SalesScott Oakes John Marciano 1818 Westlake Avenue N420 Seattle WA 98109TEL 206-283-9545FAX 206-283-9571
MotorHome is a registeredtrademark of Affinity GroupInc Copyright 2010 by Affinity Group Inc All rightsreserved MotorHome (USPS459-030) is published monthly by TL Enterprises IncSubscription price US and possessions 1 year$1997 2 years $3497 3 years $4797 All othercountries add $12 per year For more informationvisit our Web site atwwwmotorhomemagazinecom
TOWamp GO
If you enjoy the thrill of exploring the open road in your motorhome yoursquoveprobably found a few instances where bigger is not always better Thatrsquoswhere towing a dinghy behind your coach becomes advantageous Wantto know more The 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing provides a selection of
informative articles and a listing of new vehicles ready-made to enhance yourRVing lifestyle
Granted no manufacturer has yet to engineer a plug-and-play setup directly from the factory but itrsquos never been simpler to equip both dinghy andmotorhome for road duty
For starters as highlighted in ldquoWhat You Need to Know Before You Towrdquo(page 6) the hard hookup between motorhome and car (or truck or SUV) hasbecome an easy one-person operation self-aligning tow bars make cinching upa breeze with some tow-bar designs even routing cables and wiring throughhollow arms the connection is more than easy itrsquos eye-pleasing Plus manu-facturers are offering an array of accessories to help keep it that way An RVunderskirt fitted beneath the equipment will safeguard the dinghy vehicle andtowing hardware from debris For more ironclad protection nearly indestructi-ble rock guards are available that quickly attach to the tow bar and shield thedinghy from road refuse
Yet another device to aid in safe dinghy transport supplemental brakingsystems have likewise evolved Portable systems can be installed in just a fewminutes and even permanent installations remain unobtrusive Dinghy brakesmay not be mandatory in some states mdash yet mdash but anytime you add a few tonsof weight to the back of your motorhome you really do need a way to slow itdown without taxing the brakes on your coach
And make no mistake contemporary motorhomes can accommodate a lotof dinghy weight While many new chassis are rated to handle at least 4000pounds of dinghy weight certain luxury motorcoaches today carry grosscombined weight ratings (GCWR) of 60000 pounds or more mdash with up to 25percent of that dedicated to towing
The focus of our annual dinghy towing guide is the dinghies themselvesManufacturers are becoming increasingly sensitive to the needs of the motor-home community and the ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquo (beginning on page 12)lists more than 125 passenger cars SUVs light trucks and hybrids that havebeen manufacturer-certified for four-wheels-down towing The list includes manyof the newest vehicles mdash including a plethora in the hybrid-car segment Forall-terrain fun there are plenty of 4WD vehicles to choose from While somevehicles are easy to tow others require that very specific procedures be followed before and during towing to prevent damage This year wersquove included expandedinformation on the manufacturer guidelines required for flat towing thoughyoursquoll still need to check the ownerrsquos manual for more detailed procedures
As motorhomes continue to grow in size and stature life on the road hasnever been more comfortable A dinghy adds to that enjoyment
002-MH1003 Dnghy-Intro-Mas 122309 352 PM Page 3
4 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
20010 GUIDE TTTOO2010 GUIDE TO
DINGHYTOWING
6 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOWLinking up with the proper equipment
12 2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPOur annual guide to manufacturer-approved flat-towable cars trucks and SUVs
28 TOWING ACCESSORIESPrepping your dinghy for safe travel
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 353 PM Page 4
| 2008 DINGHY TOWING GUIDE|5
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 354 PM Page 5
6 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Traveling with a dinghy vehicle is almosta given with todayrsquos larger motorhomesAlthough the trend to bigger coaches hasinjected ldquocampingrdquo with more creature
comforts than a luxury hotel room itrsquos not withoutits drawbacks Even rigs with a 60-degree wheelcut will encounter some difficulty negotiating nar-row roads in smaller towns during sightseeing toursmdash and itrsquos just not fun trying to park a 40-footer atlocal markets when replacing perishables
A dinghy simplifies such tasks and eliminatesthe need to break camp and stow everything eachtime you need (or want) to venture away from thecampground Additionally the dinghy can stowgear securely when motorhome storage is filled(within weight restrictions) and there is the secu-rity of having a spare set of wheels in the eventof an emergency
Itrsquos not without consequences towing a dinghywill affect the acceleration fuel economy and brak-ing of any motorhome to some degree Howeverproper selection of a dinghy and towing equipmentwill enable you to safely and conveniently enjoy thebenefits of auxiliary transportation
FLAT TOWINGThe first and most essential step in selecting a dinghyvehicle is to make sure it is approved by its manu-facturer for flat towing (see ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquopage 12) While you do have other options mdash manypassenger cars or light trucks can safely be used as
a dinghy provided a towing accessory (such as atransmission lube pump) is available for that specificmodel as an aftermarket add-on or towing on a dollyor trailer is planned mdash these vehicles have been cer-tified for four-wheels-down towing without affectingtheir warranties However buyers should always firstconfirm flat-towability by consulting the vehicleownerrsquos manual before the purchase is finalized
When selecting a dinghy first find out themaximum towing limit of your motorhome and then determine which vehicles fall within that limitTowing limits arenrsquot the only factor to consider butthey help to eliminate many choices based onweight alone The weight rating of the motorhomersquoshitch receiver is another concern although mostare adequate and receivers can be upgraded Keepin mind however that an upgraded hitch receivercannot increase the specified towing limit set bythe chassis manufacturer
An economical four-passenger compact car candouble as a fam-ilyrsquos second carwhen not travel-ing but even alarger SUV orsport truck canbe towed pro-viding its weightis within the tow-ing limit of yourchassis
THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT ADDS SAFETYSIMPLICITY AND CONVENIENCE
WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYOOOOOOOOUUUUUUUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOOOOKKNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
WHAT YOUNEED TOKNOWBEFOREYOU TOW
Drop receiverskeep tow barslevel
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 348 PM Page 6
Most flat-towed dinghies track so well that many motor-home drivers have comment-ed ldquoYou donrsquot even know itrsquosthererdquo Front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles with manual transmissionsand most 4WD vehicles with manualtransfer cases are among the easiestand most economical to tow Plus they tend to rank among the lightest vehicles
Some auto manufacturers also produce FWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions that areflat-towable They are popular be-cause the expense of towing equip-ment is minimal and readying for tow-ing involves fewer steps
But some vehicles dorequire special proceduressuch as starting the engineevery 200 miles to circulatetransmission fluid Note thatthis cannot simply be circum-vented by overfilling the trans-mission before towing becausethe problem isnrsquot caused by lackof sufficient fluid but rather bylack of oil circulation Suchpractices although incon-venient are designed toprevent drivetrain damageand must be incorporatedinto the towing routine
Another vehicle-specificconsideration is that towing some dinghies with theignition switch in a position that allows the steer-ing column to remain unlocked also leaves powerapplied to various electrical circuits Over thecourse of a full day of towing this can lead to signi-ficant battery drain While strategies for dealing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 7
with this vary considerably by model most fixes in-volve temporarily unplugging one or more fuses fromthe vehiclersquos fuse box before towing A more involvedalternative is to connect the offending circuit throughan owner-added switch allowing these circuits tobe made tow-ready by the mere flip of a switch
Once the tow bar is pinned in the hitch receivermake sure electric connections and safety cables are secure
tow bar is rated to handle vehicles up to 6000pounds Non-binding design facilitates hookup
Demcorsquos Dominator aluminum tow bar has a rating up to 7500pounds Easy trigger release and self-supporting arms provide convenient connection to baseplate
While driving your dinghy this type of towbar remains on the coach tuckedout of harmrsquos way
Aventa LX from Blue Ox uses a ball-in-socket design which allows thearms to swivel 360 degrees for quick hookup The tow bar is rated totow vehicles up to 10000 pounds
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 7
8 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
A n essential ingredient in safe dinghy towing involves a solid properly designed-and-installed mechanical linkage between
the motorhome and the towed vehicle Hitchreceivers tow bars and baseplates must all be ingood working order rated for the weight you intendto pull and when applicable designed for thespecific application
Hitch receivers Check the rating of your hitchsreceiver to ensure that it is rated for the heaviestload you intend to pull If a receiver is already in-stalled on your coach the weight limits and classshould be clearly visible on it
However the riding height of a motorhomerarely matches up with that of the chosen dinghyoftentimes necessitating the use of an adjustable-height drop receiver to allow the tow bar to ridelevel Receivers should be bolted (not welded)in place using at least Grade 5 bolts and lock
washers locking nuts and thread-locking sealerTow bars are available in two basic styles
A-frame or self-aligning A-frame tow bars (offeredas ldquosolidrdquo or ldquofoldingrdquo) while the most economi-cal are designed to fit a limited number of base-plates (the mounting brackets affixed to the dinghy)or specific applications however the folding de-sign will fit a wider range than the solid designThese types of tow bars are strong but heavy andrequire storage space when not in use Hitchingis easier with a helper to guide alignment
Self-aligning tow bars are available in twostyles dinghy-mounted and coach-mountedCoach-mounted units are the most desirable asthere is less chance of damage when not in use mdashand hitching is a one-person operation Highlyadaptable self-aligning tow bars fit a broad rangeof vehicles by attaching to model-specific base-plates Class III (5000-lb) or Class IV (10000-
Baseplate installation does not require weldingor specialized tools but can be involved If youhave any reservations have a professional do it
To hook up using a telescoping tow bar the dinghy vehicle only needs to be nearthe center and mid-length of bar
BEFORE YOU TOWMake sure your equipmentis rated for the dinghyrsquos weight and that you are not exceeding your motorhomersquosgross combination weightrating (GCWR) Confirm hitch heightis correct Confirm all hitch bolts and tow-bar and baseplate fas-teners are securely tightened Confirm all hitch and wiring
connections are engaged and secure all safety chains or cables are attached andall locking pins are properly installed Connect brake system and breakaway device Check motorhome anddinghy for proper functionof taillights brakelightsand turn signals Check tire pressure of all
tires on motorhome and dinghymdash including spare tires Make sure the dinghy is set up for towing steeringunlocked hand brake offgear selector in the positionspecified by manufacturerignition in proper positionlube-pump switch driveshaftcoupler 4WD transfer case and hubs (if applicable) inproper position
THE MOTORHOMEDINGHY LINK
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 8
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
Patriottrade Braking System
The Patriot from Blue Ox gives you the comfort needed for when yoursquore
braking your tow vehicle Not only is it convenient and easy to store but it also
proportionally applies the brakes while yoursquore slowing down to stop instead of
suddenly jolting your tow vehicle causing costly damage to your brakes
All Blue Ox braking systems come with a one year warranty
or air hoses
moves smoothly and proportionally
from coach
coach with wireless remote
air cylinder
similar braking systems
brake and remote
onoff switch
push of one button
pedal clamp
back of unit to seat
for model information
(Left) On the brake itself there is an easy-to-read LED display complete with one set up button a breakaway plug-in manual adjust-ment for sensitivity onoff switch and an auxiliary 12-volt connection
(Right) In-coach controller complete with a manual brake lever easy-to-read LED display and gain adjustment
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom
DTG122109
Patent Pending
Patriottrade Braking System
The Patriot from Blue Ox gives you the comfort needed for when yoursquore
braking your tow vehicle Not only is it convenient and easy to store but it also
proportionally applies the brakes while yoursquore slowing down to stop instead of
suddenly jolting your tow vehicle causing costly damage to your brakes
All Blue Ox braking systems come with a one year warranty
or air hoses
moves smoothly and proportionally
from coach
coach with wireless remote
air cylinder
similar braking systems
brake and remote
onoff switch
push of one button
pedal clamp
back of unit to seat
for model information
(Left) On the brake itself there is an easy-to-read LED display complete with one set up button a breakaway plug-in manual adjust-ment for sensitivity onoff switch and an auxiliary 12-volt connection
(Right) In-coach controller complete with a manual brake lever easy-to-read LED display and gain adjustment
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom
DTG122109
Patent Pending
Blu
e O
x g
o to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
002-MH1003 Dnghy-Intro-Mas 122309 352 PM Page 2
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 3
PublisherBob LivingstonArt DirectorSusie Lieu AlmazanEditorEileen HubbardSenior Managing EditorPatricia MarroquinAssistant EditorMeaghan AlfierContributorsGary Bohinc Rich Cox Chris Hemer
EDITORIALBUSINESS OFFICE2575 Vista Del Mar Drive Ventura CA 93001 FAX 805-667-4484 E-MAILInfomotorhomemagazinecom
ADVERTISINGVentura CaliforniaVPNational SalesTerry ThompsonBusiness ManagerDenielle SternburgPO Box 8510 Ventura CA 93002 TEL 805-667-4100FAX 805-667-4379
Elkhart IndianaMidwest Sales DirectorChuck LasleyNational Advertising SalesTacy Hendershot Lou Cicirelli2300 Middlebury Street Elkhart IN 46516TEL 574-295-7820 FAX 574-522-0418
Seattle WashingtonNational Advertising SalesScott Oakes John Marciano 1818 Westlake Avenue N420 Seattle WA 98109TEL 206-283-9545FAX 206-283-9571
MotorHome is a registeredtrademark of Affinity GroupInc Copyright 2010 by Affinity Group Inc All rightsreserved MotorHome (USPS459-030) is published monthly by TL Enterprises IncSubscription price US and possessions 1 year$1997 2 years $3497 3 years $4797 All othercountries add $12 per year For more informationvisit our Web site atwwwmotorhomemagazinecom
TOWamp GO
If you enjoy the thrill of exploring the open road in your motorhome yoursquoveprobably found a few instances where bigger is not always better Thatrsquoswhere towing a dinghy behind your coach becomes advantageous Wantto know more The 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing provides a selection of
informative articles and a listing of new vehicles ready-made to enhance yourRVing lifestyle
Granted no manufacturer has yet to engineer a plug-and-play setup directly from the factory but itrsquos never been simpler to equip both dinghy andmotorhome for road duty
For starters as highlighted in ldquoWhat You Need to Know Before You Towrdquo(page 6) the hard hookup between motorhome and car (or truck or SUV) hasbecome an easy one-person operation self-aligning tow bars make cinching upa breeze with some tow-bar designs even routing cables and wiring throughhollow arms the connection is more than easy itrsquos eye-pleasing Plus manu-facturers are offering an array of accessories to help keep it that way An RVunderskirt fitted beneath the equipment will safeguard the dinghy vehicle andtowing hardware from debris For more ironclad protection nearly indestructi-ble rock guards are available that quickly attach to the tow bar and shield thedinghy from road refuse
Yet another device to aid in safe dinghy transport supplemental brakingsystems have likewise evolved Portable systems can be installed in just a fewminutes and even permanent installations remain unobtrusive Dinghy brakesmay not be mandatory in some states mdash yet mdash but anytime you add a few tonsof weight to the back of your motorhome you really do need a way to slow itdown without taxing the brakes on your coach
And make no mistake contemporary motorhomes can accommodate a lotof dinghy weight While many new chassis are rated to handle at least 4000pounds of dinghy weight certain luxury motorcoaches today carry grosscombined weight ratings (GCWR) of 60000 pounds or more mdash with up to 25percent of that dedicated to towing
The focus of our annual dinghy towing guide is the dinghies themselvesManufacturers are becoming increasingly sensitive to the needs of the motor-home community and the ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquo (beginning on page 12)lists more than 125 passenger cars SUVs light trucks and hybrids that havebeen manufacturer-certified for four-wheels-down towing The list includes manyof the newest vehicles mdash including a plethora in the hybrid-car segment Forall-terrain fun there are plenty of 4WD vehicles to choose from While somevehicles are easy to tow others require that very specific procedures be followed before and during towing to prevent damage This year wersquove included expandedinformation on the manufacturer guidelines required for flat towing thoughyoursquoll still need to check the ownerrsquos manual for more detailed procedures
As motorhomes continue to grow in size and stature life on the road hasnever been more comfortable A dinghy adds to that enjoyment
002-MH1003 Dnghy-Intro-Mas 122309 352 PM Page 3
4 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
20010 GUIDE TTTOO2010 GUIDE TO
DINGHYTOWING
6 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOWLinking up with the proper equipment
12 2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPOur annual guide to manufacturer-approved flat-towable cars trucks and SUVs
28 TOWING ACCESSORIESPrepping your dinghy for safe travel
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 353 PM Page 4
| 2008 DINGHY TOWING GUIDE|5
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 354 PM Page 5
6 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Traveling with a dinghy vehicle is almosta given with todayrsquos larger motorhomesAlthough the trend to bigger coaches hasinjected ldquocampingrdquo with more creature
comforts than a luxury hotel room itrsquos not withoutits drawbacks Even rigs with a 60-degree wheelcut will encounter some difficulty negotiating nar-row roads in smaller towns during sightseeing toursmdash and itrsquos just not fun trying to park a 40-footer atlocal markets when replacing perishables
A dinghy simplifies such tasks and eliminatesthe need to break camp and stow everything eachtime you need (or want) to venture away from thecampground Additionally the dinghy can stowgear securely when motorhome storage is filled(within weight restrictions) and there is the secu-rity of having a spare set of wheels in the eventof an emergency
Itrsquos not without consequences towing a dinghywill affect the acceleration fuel economy and brak-ing of any motorhome to some degree Howeverproper selection of a dinghy and towing equipmentwill enable you to safely and conveniently enjoy thebenefits of auxiliary transportation
FLAT TOWINGThe first and most essential step in selecting a dinghyvehicle is to make sure it is approved by its manu-facturer for flat towing (see ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquopage 12) While you do have other options mdash manypassenger cars or light trucks can safely be used as
a dinghy provided a towing accessory (such as atransmission lube pump) is available for that specificmodel as an aftermarket add-on or towing on a dollyor trailer is planned mdash these vehicles have been cer-tified for four-wheels-down towing without affectingtheir warranties However buyers should always firstconfirm flat-towability by consulting the vehicleownerrsquos manual before the purchase is finalized
When selecting a dinghy first find out themaximum towing limit of your motorhome and then determine which vehicles fall within that limitTowing limits arenrsquot the only factor to consider butthey help to eliminate many choices based onweight alone The weight rating of the motorhomersquoshitch receiver is another concern although mostare adequate and receivers can be upgraded Keepin mind however that an upgraded hitch receivercannot increase the specified towing limit set bythe chassis manufacturer
An economical four-passenger compact car candouble as a fam-ilyrsquos second carwhen not travel-ing but even alarger SUV orsport truck canbe towed pro-viding its weightis within the tow-ing limit of yourchassis
THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT ADDS SAFETYSIMPLICITY AND CONVENIENCE
WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYOOOOOOOOUUUUUUUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOOOOKKNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
WHAT YOUNEED TOKNOWBEFOREYOU TOW
Drop receiverskeep tow barslevel
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 348 PM Page 6
Most flat-towed dinghies track so well that many motor-home drivers have comment-ed ldquoYou donrsquot even know itrsquosthererdquo Front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles with manual transmissionsand most 4WD vehicles with manualtransfer cases are among the easiestand most economical to tow Plus they tend to rank among the lightest vehicles
Some auto manufacturers also produce FWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions that areflat-towable They are popular be-cause the expense of towing equip-ment is minimal and readying for tow-ing involves fewer steps
But some vehicles dorequire special proceduressuch as starting the engineevery 200 miles to circulatetransmission fluid Note thatthis cannot simply be circum-vented by overfilling the trans-mission before towing becausethe problem isnrsquot caused by lackof sufficient fluid but rather bylack of oil circulation Suchpractices although incon-venient are designed toprevent drivetrain damageand must be incorporatedinto the towing routine
Another vehicle-specificconsideration is that towing some dinghies with theignition switch in a position that allows the steer-ing column to remain unlocked also leaves powerapplied to various electrical circuits Over thecourse of a full day of towing this can lead to signi-ficant battery drain While strategies for dealing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 7
with this vary considerably by model most fixes in-volve temporarily unplugging one or more fuses fromthe vehiclersquos fuse box before towing A more involvedalternative is to connect the offending circuit throughan owner-added switch allowing these circuits tobe made tow-ready by the mere flip of a switch
Once the tow bar is pinned in the hitch receivermake sure electric connections and safety cables are secure
tow bar is rated to handle vehicles up to 6000pounds Non-binding design facilitates hookup
Demcorsquos Dominator aluminum tow bar has a rating up to 7500pounds Easy trigger release and self-supporting arms provide convenient connection to baseplate
While driving your dinghy this type of towbar remains on the coach tuckedout of harmrsquos way
Aventa LX from Blue Ox uses a ball-in-socket design which allows thearms to swivel 360 degrees for quick hookup The tow bar is rated totow vehicles up to 10000 pounds
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 7
8 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
A n essential ingredient in safe dinghy towing involves a solid properly designed-and-installed mechanical linkage between
the motorhome and the towed vehicle Hitchreceivers tow bars and baseplates must all be ingood working order rated for the weight you intendto pull and when applicable designed for thespecific application
Hitch receivers Check the rating of your hitchsreceiver to ensure that it is rated for the heaviestload you intend to pull If a receiver is already in-stalled on your coach the weight limits and classshould be clearly visible on it
However the riding height of a motorhomerarely matches up with that of the chosen dinghyoftentimes necessitating the use of an adjustable-height drop receiver to allow the tow bar to ridelevel Receivers should be bolted (not welded)in place using at least Grade 5 bolts and lock
washers locking nuts and thread-locking sealerTow bars are available in two basic styles
A-frame or self-aligning A-frame tow bars (offeredas ldquosolidrdquo or ldquofoldingrdquo) while the most economi-cal are designed to fit a limited number of base-plates (the mounting brackets affixed to the dinghy)or specific applications however the folding de-sign will fit a wider range than the solid designThese types of tow bars are strong but heavy andrequire storage space when not in use Hitchingis easier with a helper to guide alignment
Self-aligning tow bars are available in twostyles dinghy-mounted and coach-mountedCoach-mounted units are the most desirable asthere is less chance of damage when not in use mdashand hitching is a one-person operation Highlyadaptable self-aligning tow bars fit a broad rangeof vehicles by attaching to model-specific base-plates Class III (5000-lb) or Class IV (10000-
Baseplate installation does not require weldingor specialized tools but can be involved If youhave any reservations have a professional do it
To hook up using a telescoping tow bar the dinghy vehicle only needs to be nearthe center and mid-length of bar
BEFORE YOU TOWMake sure your equipmentis rated for the dinghyrsquos weight and that you are not exceeding your motorhomersquosgross combination weightrating (GCWR) Confirm hitch heightis correct Confirm all hitch bolts and tow-bar and baseplate fas-teners are securely tightened Confirm all hitch and wiring
connections are engaged and secure all safety chains or cables are attached andall locking pins are properly installed Connect brake system and breakaway device Check motorhome anddinghy for proper functionof taillights brakelightsand turn signals Check tire pressure of all
tires on motorhome and dinghymdash including spare tires Make sure the dinghy is set up for towing steeringunlocked hand brake offgear selector in the positionspecified by manufacturerignition in proper positionlube-pump switch driveshaftcoupler 4WD transfer case and hubs (if applicable) inproper position
THE MOTORHOMEDINGHY LINK
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 8
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 3
PublisherBob LivingstonArt DirectorSusie Lieu AlmazanEditorEileen HubbardSenior Managing EditorPatricia MarroquinAssistant EditorMeaghan AlfierContributorsGary Bohinc Rich Cox Chris Hemer
EDITORIALBUSINESS OFFICE2575 Vista Del Mar Drive Ventura CA 93001 FAX 805-667-4484 E-MAILInfomotorhomemagazinecom
ADVERTISINGVentura CaliforniaVPNational SalesTerry ThompsonBusiness ManagerDenielle SternburgPO Box 8510 Ventura CA 93002 TEL 805-667-4100FAX 805-667-4379
Elkhart IndianaMidwest Sales DirectorChuck LasleyNational Advertising SalesTacy Hendershot Lou Cicirelli2300 Middlebury Street Elkhart IN 46516TEL 574-295-7820 FAX 574-522-0418
Seattle WashingtonNational Advertising SalesScott Oakes John Marciano 1818 Westlake Avenue N420 Seattle WA 98109TEL 206-283-9545FAX 206-283-9571
MotorHome is a registeredtrademark of Affinity GroupInc Copyright 2010 by Affinity Group Inc All rightsreserved MotorHome (USPS459-030) is published monthly by TL Enterprises IncSubscription price US and possessions 1 year$1997 2 years $3497 3 years $4797 All othercountries add $12 per year For more informationvisit our Web site atwwwmotorhomemagazinecom
TOWamp GO
If you enjoy the thrill of exploring the open road in your motorhome yoursquoveprobably found a few instances where bigger is not always better Thatrsquoswhere towing a dinghy behind your coach becomes advantageous Wantto know more The 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing provides a selection of
informative articles and a listing of new vehicles ready-made to enhance yourRVing lifestyle
Granted no manufacturer has yet to engineer a plug-and-play setup directly from the factory but itrsquos never been simpler to equip both dinghy andmotorhome for road duty
For starters as highlighted in ldquoWhat You Need to Know Before You Towrdquo(page 6) the hard hookup between motorhome and car (or truck or SUV) hasbecome an easy one-person operation self-aligning tow bars make cinching upa breeze with some tow-bar designs even routing cables and wiring throughhollow arms the connection is more than easy itrsquos eye-pleasing Plus manu-facturers are offering an array of accessories to help keep it that way An RVunderskirt fitted beneath the equipment will safeguard the dinghy vehicle andtowing hardware from debris For more ironclad protection nearly indestructi-ble rock guards are available that quickly attach to the tow bar and shield thedinghy from road refuse
Yet another device to aid in safe dinghy transport supplemental brakingsystems have likewise evolved Portable systems can be installed in just a fewminutes and even permanent installations remain unobtrusive Dinghy brakesmay not be mandatory in some states mdash yet mdash but anytime you add a few tonsof weight to the back of your motorhome you really do need a way to slow itdown without taxing the brakes on your coach
And make no mistake contemporary motorhomes can accommodate a lotof dinghy weight While many new chassis are rated to handle at least 4000pounds of dinghy weight certain luxury motorcoaches today carry grosscombined weight ratings (GCWR) of 60000 pounds or more mdash with up to 25percent of that dedicated to towing
The focus of our annual dinghy towing guide is the dinghies themselvesManufacturers are becoming increasingly sensitive to the needs of the motor-home community and the ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquo (beginning on page 12)lists more than 125 passenger cars SUVs light trucks and hybrids that havebeen manufacturer-certified for four-wheels-down towing The list includes manyof the newest vehicles mdash including a plethora in the hybrid-car segment Forall-terrain fun there are plenty of 4WD vehicles to choose from While somevehicles are easy to tow others require that very specific procedures be followed before and during towing to prevent damage This year wersquove included expandedinformation on the manufacturer guidelines required for flat towing thoughyoursquoll still need to check the ownerrsquos manual for more detailed procedures
As motorhomes continue to grow in size and stature life on the road hasnever been more comfortable A dinghy adds to that enjoyment
002-MH1003 Dnghy-Intro-Mas 122309 352 PM Page 3
4 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
20010 GUIDE TTTOO2010 GUIDE TO
DINGHYTOWING
6 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOWLinking up with the proper equipment
12 2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPOur annual guide to manufacturer-approved flat-towable cars trucks and SUVs
28 TOWING ACCESSORIESPrepping your dinghy for safe travel
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 353 PM Page 4
| 2008 DINGHY TOWING GUIDE|5
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 354 PM Page 5
6 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Traveling with a dinghy vehicle is almosta given with todayrsquos larger motorhomesAlthough the trend to bigger coaches hasinjected ldquocampingrdquo with more creature
comforts than a luxury hotel room itrsquos not withoutits drawbacks Even rigs with a 60-degree wheelcut will encounter some difficulty negotiating nar-row roads in smaller towns during sightseeing toursmdash and itrsquos just not fun trying to park a 40-footer atlocal markets when replacing perishables
A dinghy simplifies such tasks and eliminatesthe need to break camp and stow everything eachtime you need (or want) to venture away from thecampground Additionally the dinghy can stowgear securely when motorhome storage is filled(within weight restrictions) and there is the secu-rity of having a spare set of wheels in the eventof an emergency
Itrsquos not without consequences towing a dinghywill affect the acceleration fuel economy and brak-ing of any motorhome to some degree Howeverproper selection of a dinghy and towing equipmentwill enable you to safely and conveniently enjoy thebenefits of auxiliary transportation
FLAT TOWINGThe first and most essential step in selecting a dinghyvehicle is to make sure it is approved by its manu-facturer for flat towing (see ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquopage 12) While you do have other options mdash manypassenger cars or light trucks can safely be used as
a dinghy provided a towing accessory (such as atransmission lube pump) is available for that specificmodel as an aftermarket add-on or towing on a dollyor trailer is planned mdash these vehicles have been cer-tified for four-wheels-down towing without affectingtheir warranties However buyers should always firstconfirm flat-towability by consulting the vehicleownerrsquos manual before the purchase is finalized
When selecting a dinghy first find out themaximum towing limit of your motorhome and then determine which vehicles fall within that limitTowing limits arenrsquot the only factor to consider butthey help to eliminate many choices based onweight alone The weight rating of the motorhomersquoshitch receiver is another concern although mostare adequate and receivers can be upgraded Keepin mind however that an upgraded hitch receivercannot increase the specified towing limit set bythe chassis manufacturer
An economical four-passenger compact car candouble as a fam-ilyrsquos second carwhen not travel-ing but even alarger SUV orsport truck canbe towed pro-viding its weightis within the tow-ing limit of yourchassis
THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT ADDS SAFETYSIMPLICITY AND CONVENIENCE
WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYOOOOOOOOUUUUUUUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOOOOKKNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
WHAT YOUNEED TOKNOWBEFOREYOU TOW
Drop receiverskeep tow barslevel
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 348 PM Page 6
Most flat-towed dinghies track so well that many motor-home drivers have comment-ed ldquoYou donrsquot even know itrsquosthererdquo Front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles with manual transmissionsand most 4WD vehicles with manualtransfer cases are among the easiestand most economical to tow Plus they tend to rank among the lightest vehicles
Some auto manufacturers also produce FWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions that areflat-towable They are popular be-cause the expense of towing equip-ment is minimal and readying for tow-ing involves fewer steps
But some vehicles dorequire special proceduressuch as starting the engineevery 200 miles to circulatetransmission fluid Note thatthis cannot simply be circum-vented by overfilling the trans-mission before towing becausethe problem isnrsquot caused by lackof sufficient fluid but rather bylack of oil circulation Suchpractices although incon-venient are designed toprevent drivetrain damageand must be incorporatedinto the towing routine
Another vehicle-specificconsideration is that towing some dinghies with theignition switch in a position that allows the steer-ing column to remain unlocked also leaves powerapplied to various electrical circuits Over thecourse of a full day of towing this can lead to signi-ficant battery drain While strategies for dealing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 7
with this vary considerably by model most fixes in-volve temporarily unplugging one or more fuses fromthe vehiclersquos fuse box before towing A more involvedalternative is to connect the offending circuit throughan owner-added switch allowing these circuits tobe made tow-ready by the mere flip of a switch
Once the tow bar is pinned in the hitch receivermake sure electric connections and safety cables are secure
tow bar is rated to handle vehicles up to 6000pounds Non-binding design facilitates hookup
Demcorsquos Dominator aluminum tow bar has a rating up to 7500pounds Easy trigger release and self-supporting arms provide convenient connection to baseplate
While driving your dinghy this type of towbar remains on the coach tuckedout of harmrsquos way
Aventa LX from Blue Ox uses a ball-in-socket design which allows thearms to swivel 360 degrees for quick hookup The tow bar is rated totow vehicles up to 10000 pounds
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 7
8 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
A n essential ingredient in safe dinghy towing involves a solid properly designed-and-installed mechanical linkage between
the motorhome and the towed vehicle Hitchreceivers tow bars and baseplates must all be ingood working order rated for the weight you intendto pull and when applicable designed for thespecific application
Hitch receivers Check the rating of your hitchsreceiver to ensure that it is rated for the heaviestload you intend to pull If a receiver is already in-stalled on your coach the weight limits and classshould be clearly visible on it
However the riding height of a motorhomerarely matches up with that of the chosen dinghyoftentimes necessitating the use of an adjustable-height drop receiver to allow the tow bar to ridelevel Receivers should be bolted (not welded)in place using at least Grade 5 bolts and lock
washers locking nuts and thread-locking sealerTow bars are available in two basic styles
A-frame or self-aligning A-frame tow bars (offeredas ldquosolidrdquo or ldquofoldingrdquo) while the most economi-cal are designed to fit a limited number of base-plates (the mounting brackets affixed to the dinghy)or specific applications however the folding de-sign will fit a wider range than the solid designThese types of tow bars are strong but heavy andrequire storage space when not in use Hitchingis easier with a helper to guide alignment
Self-aligning tow bars are available in twostyles dinghy-mounted and coach-mountedCoach-mounted units are the most desirable asthere is less chance of damage when not in use mdashand hitching is a one-person operation Highlyadaptable self-aligning tow bars fit a broad rangeof vehicles by attaching to model-specific base-plates Class III (5000-lb) or Class IV (10000-
Baseplate installation does not require weldingor specialized tools but can be involved If youhave any reservations have a professional do it
To hook up using a telescoping tow bar the dinghy vehicle only needs to be nearthe center and mid-length of bar
BEFORE YOU TOWMake sure your equipmentis rated for the dinghyrsquos weight and that you are not exceeding your motorhomersquosgross combination weightrating (GCWR) Confirm hitch heightis correct Confirm all hitch bolts and tow-bar and baseplate fas-teners are securely tightened Confirm all hitch and wiring
connections are engaged and secure all safety chains or cables are attached andall locking pins are properly installed Connect brake system and breakaway device Check motorhome anddinghy for proper functionof taillights brakelightsand turn signals Check tire pressure of all
tires on motorhome and dinghymdash including spare tires Make sure the dinghy is set up for towing steeringunlocked hand brake offgear selector in the positionspecified by manufacturerignition in proper positionlube-pump switch driveshaftcoupler 4WD transfer case and hubs (if applicable) inproper position
THE MOTORHOMEDINGHY LINK
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 8
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
4 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
20010 GUIDE TTTOO2010 GUIDE TO
DINGHYTOWING
6 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOWLinking up with the proper equipment
12 2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPOur annual guide to manufacturer-approved flat-towable cars trucks and SUVs
28 TOWING ACCESSORIESPrepping your dinghy for safe travel
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 353 PM Page 4
| 2008 DINGHY TOWING GUIDE|5
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 354 PM Page 5
6 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Traveling with a dinghy vehicle is almosta given with todayrsquos larger motorhomesAlthough the trend to bigger coaches hasinjected ldquocampingrdquo with more creature
comforts than a luxury hotel room itrsquos not withoutits drawbacks Even rigs with a 60-degree wheelcut will encounter some difficulty negotiating nar-row roads in smaller towns during sightseeing toursmdash and itrsquos just not fun trying to park a 40-footer atlocal markets when replacing perishables
A dinghy simplifies such tasks and eliminatesthe need to break camp and stow everything eachtime you need (or want) to venture away from thecampground Additionally the dinghy can stowgear securely when motorhome storage is filled(within weight restrictions) and there is the secu-rity of having a spare set of wheels in the eventof an emergency
Itrsquos not without consequences towing a dinghywill affect the acceleration fuel economy and brak-ing of any motorhome to some degree Howeverproper selection of a dinghy and towing equipmentwill enable you to safely and conveniently enjoy thebenefits of auxiliary transportation
FLAT TOWINGThe first and most essential step in selecting a dinghyvehicle is to make sure it is approved by its manu-facturer for flat towing (see ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquopage 12) While you do have other options mdash manypassenger cars or light trucks can safely be used as
a dinghy provided a towing accessory (such as atransmission lube pump) is available for that specificmodel as an aftermarket add-on or towing on a dollyor trailer is planned mdash these vehicles have been cer-tified for four-wheels-down towing without affectingtheir warranties However buyers should always firstconfirm flat-towability by consulting the vehicleownerrsquos manual before the purchase is finalized
When selecting a dinghy first find out themaximum towing limit of your motorhome and then determine which vehicles fall within that limitTowing limits arenrsquot the only factor to consider butthey help to eliminate many choices based onweight alone The weight rating of the motorhomersquoshitch receiver is another concern although mostare adequate and receivers can be upgraded Keepin mind however that an upgraded hitch receivercannot increase the specified towing limit set bythe chassis manufacturer
An economical four-passenger compact car candouble as a fam-ilyrsquos second carwhen not travel-ing but even alarger SUV orsport truck canbe towed pro-viding its weightis within the tow-ing limit of yourchassis
THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT ADDS SAFETYSIMPLICITY AND CONVENIENCE
WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYOOOOOOOOUUUUUUUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOOOOKKNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
WHAT YOUNEED TOKNOWBEFOREYOU TOW
Drop receiverskeep tow barslevel
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 348 PM Page 6
Most flat-towed dinghies track so well that many motor-home drivers have comment-ed ldquoYou donrsquot even know itrsquosthererdquo Front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles with manual transmissionsand most 4WD vehicles with manualtransfer cases are among the easiestand most economical to tow Plus they tend to rank among the lightest vehicles
Some auto manufacturers also produce FWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions that areflat-towable They are popular be-cause the expense of towing equip-ment is minimal and readying for tow-ing involves fewer steps
But some vehicles dorequire special proceduressuch as starting the engineevery 200 miles to circulatetransmission fluid Note thatthis cannot simply be circum-vented by overfilling the trans-mission before towing becausethe problem isnrsquot caused by lackof sufficient fluid but rather bylack of oil circulation Suchpractices although incon-venient are designed toprevent drivetrain damageand must be incorporatedinto the towing routine
Another vehicle-specificconsideration is that towing some dinghies with theignition switch in a position that allows the steer-ing column to remain unlocked also leaves powerapplied to various electrical circuits Over thecourse of a full day of towing this can lead to signi-ficant battery drain While strategies for dealing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 7
with this vary considerably by model most fixes in-volve temporarily unplugging one or more fuses fromthe vehiclersquos fuse box before towing A more involvedalternative is to connect the offending circuit throughan owner-added switch allowing these circuits tobe made tow-ready by the mere flip of a switch
Once the tow bar is pinned in the hitch receivermake sure electric connections and safety cables are secure
tow bar is rated to handle vehicles up to 6000pounds Non-binding design facilitates hookup
Demcorsquos Dominator aluminum tow bar has a rating up to 7500pounds Easy trigger release and self-supporting arms provide convenient connection to baseplate
While driving your dinghy this type of towbar remains on the coach tuckedout of harmrsquos way
Aventa LX from Blue Ox uses a ball-in-socket design which allows thearms to swivel 360 degrees for quick hookup The tow bar is rated totow vehicles up to 10000 pounds
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 7
8 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
A n essential ingredient in safe dinghy towing involves a solid properly designed-and-installed mechanical linkage between
the motorhome and the towed vehicle Hitchreceivers tow bars and baseplates must all be ingood working order rated for the weight you intendto pull and when applicable designed for thespecific application
Hitch receivers Check the rating of your hitchsreceiver to ensure that it is rated for the heaviestload you intend to pull If a receiver is already in-stalled on your coach the weight limits and classshould be clearly visible on it
However the riding height of a motorhomerarely matches up with that of the chosen dinghyoftentimes necessitating the use of an adjustable-height drop receiver to allow the tow bar to ridelevel Receivers should be bolted (not welded)in place using at least Grade 5 bolts and lock
washers locking nuts and thread-locking sealerTow bars are available in two basic styles
A-frame or self-aligning A-frame tow bars (offeredas ldquosolidrdquo or ldquofoldingrdquo) while the most economi-cal are designed to fit a limited number of base-plates (the mounting brackets affixed to the dinghy)or specific applications however the folding de-sign will fit a wider range than the solid designThese types of tow bars are strong but heavy andrequire storage space when not in use Hitchingis easier with a helper to guide alignment
Self-aligning tow bars are available in twostyles dinghy-mounted and coach-mountedCoach-mounted units are the most desirable asthere is less chance of damage when not in use mdashand hitching is a one-person operation Highlyadaptable self-aligning tow bars fit a broad rangeof vehicles by attaching to model-specific base-plates Class III (5000-lb) or Class IV (10000-
Baseplate installation does not require weldingor specialized tools but can be involved If youhave any reservations have a professional do it
To hook up using a telescoping tow bar the dinghy vehicle only needs to be nearthe center and mid-length of bar
BEFORE YOU TOWMake sure your equipmentis rated for the dinghyrsquos weight and that you are not exceeding your motorhomersquosgross combination weightrating (GCWR) Confirm hitch heightis correct Confirm all hitch bolts and tow-bar and baseplate fas-teners are securely tightened Confirm all hitch and wiring
connections are engaged and secure all safety chains or cables are attached andall locking pins are properly installed Connect brake system and breakaway device Check motorhome anddinghy for proper functionof taillights brakelightsand turn signals Check tire pressure of all
tires on motorhome and dinghymdash including spare tires Make sure the dinghy is set up for towing steeringunlocked hand brake offgear selector in the positionspecified by manufacturerignition in proper positionlube-pump switch driveshaftcoupler 4WD transfer case and hubs (if applicable) inproper position
THE MOTORHOMEDINGHY LINK
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 8
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
| 2008 DINGHY TOWING GUIDE|5
004-MH1003 Dinghy-TOC 122309 354 PM Page 5
6 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Traveling with a dinghy vehicle is almosta given with todayrsquos larger motorhomesAlthough the trend to bigger coaches hasinjected ldquocampingrdquo with more creature
comforts than a luxury hotel room itrsquos not withoutits drawbacks Even rigs with a 60-degree wheelcut will encounter some difficulty negotiating nar-row roads in smaller towns during sightseeing toursmdash and itrsquos just not fun trying to park a 40-footer atlocal markets when replacing perishables
A dinghy simplifies such tasks and eliminatesthe need to break camp and stow everything eachtime you need (or want) to venture away from thecampground Additionally the dinghy can stowgear securely when motorhome storage is filled(within weight restrictions) and there is the secu-rity of having a spare set of wheels in the eventof an emergency
Itrsquos not without consequences towing a dinghywill affect the acceleration fuel economy and brak-ing of any motorhome to some degree Howeverproper selection of a dinghy and towing equipmentwill enable you to safely and conveniently enjoy thebenefits of auxiliary transportation
FLAT TOWINGThe first and most essential step in selecting a dinghyvehicle is to make sure it is approved by its manu-facturer for flat towing (see ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquopage 12) While you do have other options mdash manypassenger cars or light trucks can safely be used as
a dinghy provided a towing accessory (such as atransmission lube pump) is available for that specificmodel as an aftermarket add-on or towing on a dollyor trailer is planned mdash these vehicles have been cer-tified for four-wheels-down towing without affectingtheir warranties However buyers should always firstconfirm flat-towability by consulting the vehicleownerrsquos manual before the purchase is finalized
When selecting a dinghy first find out themaximum towing limit of your motorhome and then determine which vehicles fall within that limitTowing limits arenrsquot the only factor to consider butthey help to eliminate many choices based onweight alone The weight rating of the motorhomersquoshitch receiver is another concern although mostare adequate and receivers can be upgraded Keepin mind however that an upgraded hitch receivercannot increase the specified towing limit set bythe chassis manufacturer
An economical four-passenger compact car candouble as a fam-ilyrsquos second carwhen not travel-ing but even alarger SUV orsport truck canbe towed pro-viding its weightis within the tow-ing limit of yourchassis
THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT ADDS SAFETYSIMPLICITY AND CONVENIENCE
WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYOOOOOOOOUUUUUUUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOOOOKKNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
WHAT YOUNEED TOKNOWBEFOREYOU TOW
Drop receiverskeep tow barslevel
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 348 PM Page 6
Most flat-towed dinghies track so well that many motor-home drivers have comment-ed ldquoYou donrsquot even know itrsquosthererdquo Front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles with manual transmissionsand most 4WD vehicles with manualtransfer cases are among the easiestand most economical to tow Plus they tend to rank among the lightest vehicles
Some auto manufacturers also produce FWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions that areflat-towable They are popular be-cause the expense of towing equip-ment is minimal and readying for tow-ing involves fewer steps
But some vehicles dorequire special proceduressuch as starting the engineevery 200 miles to circulatetransmission fluid Note thatthis cannot simply be circum-vented by overfilling the trans-mission before towing becausethe problem isnrsquot caused by lackof sufficient fluid but rather bylack of oil circulation Suchpractices although incon-venient are designed toprevent drivetrain damageand must be incorporatedinto the towing routine
Another vehicle-specificconsideration is that towing some dinghies with theignition switch in a position that allows the steer-ing column to remain unlocked also leaves powerapplied to various electrical circuits Over thecourse of a full day of towing this can lead to signi-ficant battery drain While strategies for dealing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 7
with this vary considerably by model most fixes in-volve temporarily unplugging one or more fuses fromthe vehiclersquos fuse box before towing A more involvedalternative is to connect the offending circuit throughan owner-added switch allowing these circuits tobe made tow-ready by the mere flip of a switch
Once the tow bar is pinned in the hitch receivermake sure electric connections and safety cables are secure
tow bar is rated to handle vehicles up to 6000pounds Non-binding design facilitates hookup
Demcorsquos Dominator aluminum tow bar has a rating up to 7500pounds Easy trigger release and self-supporting arms provide convenient connection to baseplate
While driving your dinghy this type of towbar remains on the coach tuckedout of harmrsquos way
Aventa LX from Blue Ox uses a ball-in-socket design which allows thearms to swivel 360 degrees for quick hookup The tow bar is rated totow vehicles up to 10000 pounds
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 7
8 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
A n essential ingredient in safe dinghy towing involves a solid properly designed-and-installed mechanical linkage between
the motorhome and the towed vehicle Hitchreceivers tow bars and baseplates must all be ingood working order rated for the weight you intendto pull and when applicable designed for thespecific application
Hitch receivers Check the rating of your hitchsreceiver to ensure that it is rated for the heaviestload you intend to pull If a receiver is already in-stalled on your coach the weight limits and classshould be clearly visible on it
However the riding height of a motorhomerarely matches up with that of the chosen dinghyoftentimes necessitating the use of an adjustable-height drop receiver to allow the tow bar to ridelevel Receivers should be bolted (not welded)in place using at least Grade 5 bolts and lock
washers locking nuts and thread-locking sealerTow bars are available in two basic styles
A-frame or self-aligning A-frame tow bars (offeredas ldquosolidrdquo or ldquofoldingrdquo) while the most economi-cal are designed to fit a limited number of base-plates (the mounting brackets affixed to the dinghy)or specific applications however the folding de-sign will fit a wider range than the solid designThese types of tow bars are strong but heavy andrequire storage space when not in use Hitchingis easier with a helper to guide alignment
Self-aligning tow bars are available in twostyles dinghy-mounted and coach-mountedCoach-mounted units are the most desirable asthere is less chance of damage when not in use mdashand hitching is a one-person operation Highlyadaptable self-aligning tow bars fit a broad rangeof vehicles by attaching to model-specific base-plates Class III (5000-lb) or Class IV (10000-
Baseplate installation does not require weldingor specialized tools but can be involved If youhave any reservations have a professional do it
To hook up using a telescoping tow bar the dinghy vehicle only needs to be nearthe center and mid-length of bar
BEFORE YOU TOWMake sure your equipmentis rated for the dinghyrsquos weight and that you are not exceeding your motorhomersquosgross combination weightrating (GCWR) Confirm hitch heightis correct Confirm all hitch bolts and tow-bar and baseplate fas-teners are securely tightened Confirm all hitch and wiring
connections are engaged and secure all safety chains or cables are attached andall locking pins are properly installed Connect brake system and breakaway device Check motorhome anddinghy for proper functionof taillights brakelightsand turn signals Check tire pressure of all
tires on motorhome and dinghymdash including spare tires Make sure the dinghy is set up for towing steeringunlocked hand brake offgear selector in the positionspecified by manufacturerignition in proper positionlube-pump switch driveshaftcoupler 4WD transfer case and hubs (if applicable) inproper position
THE MOTORHOMEDINGHY LINK
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 8
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
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otor
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azin
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012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
6 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Traveling with a dinghy vehicle is almosta given with todayrsquos larger motorhomesAlthough the trend to bigger coaches hasinjected ldquocampingrdquo with more creature
comforts than a luxury hotel room itrsquos not withoutits drawbacks Even rigs with a 60-degree wheelcut will encounter some difficulty negotiating nar-row roads in smaller towns during sightseeing toursmdash and itrsquos just not fun trying to park a 40-footer atlocal markets when replacing perishables
A dinghy simplifies such tasks and eliminatesthe need to break camp and stow everything eachtime you need (or want) to venture away from thecampground Additionally the dinghy can stowgear securely when motorhome storage is filled(within weight restrictions) and there is the secu-rity of having a spare set of wheels in the eventof an emergency
Itrsquos not without consequences towing a dinghywill affect the acceleration fuel economy and brak-ing of any motorhome to some degree Howeverproper selection of a dinghy and towing equipmentwill enable you to safely and conveniently enjoy thebenefits of auxiliary transportation
FLAT TOWINGThe first and most essential step in selecting a dinghyvehicle is to make sure it is approved by its manu-facturer for flat towing (see ldquo2010 Dinghy Rounduprdquopage 12) While you do have other options mdash manypassenger cars or light trucks can safely be used as
a dinghy provided a towing accessory (such as atransmission lube pump) is available for that specificmodel as an aftermarket add-on or towing on a dollyor trailer is planned mdash these vehicles have been cer-tified for four-wheels-down towing without affectingtheir warranties However buyers should always firstconfirm flat-towability by consulting the vehicleownerrsquos manual before the purchase is finalized
When selecting a dinghy first find out themaximum towing limit of your motorhome and then determine which vehicles fall within that limitTowing limits arenrsquot the only factor to consider butthey help to eliminate many choices based onweight alone The weight rating of the motorhomersquoshitch receiver is another concern although mostare adequate and receivers can be upgraded Keepin mind however that an upgraded hitch receivercannot increase the specified towing limit set bythe chassis manufacturer
An economical four-passenger compact car candouble as a fam-ilyrsquos second carwhen not travel-ing but even alarger SUV orsport truck canbe towed pro-viding its weightis within the tow-ing limit of yourchassis
THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT ADDS SAFETYSIMPLICITY AND CONVENIENCE
WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYOOOOOOOOUUUUUUUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOOOOKKNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
WHAT YOUNEED TOKNOWBEFOREYOU TOW
Drop receiverskeep tow barslevel
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 348 PM Page 6
Most flat-towed dinghies track so well that many motor-home drivers have comment-ed ldquoYou donrsquot even know itrsquosthererdquo Front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles with manual transmissionsand most 4WD vehicles with manualtransfer cases are among the easiestand most economical to tow Plus they tend to rank among the lightest vehicles
Some auto manufacturers also produce FWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions that areflat-towable They are popular be-cause the expense of towing equip-ment is minimal and readying for tow-ing involves fewer steps
But some vehicles dorequire special proceduressuch as starting the engineevery 200 miles to circulatetransmission fluid Note thatthis cannot simply be circum-vented by overfilling the trans-mission before towing becausethe problem isnrsquot caused by lackof sufficient fluid but rather bylack of oil circulation Suchpractices although incon-venient are designed toprevent drivetrain damageand must be incorporatedinto the towing routine
Another vehicle-specificconsideration is that towing some dinghies with theignition switch in a position that allows the steer-ing column to remain unlocked also leaves powerapplied to various electrical circuits Over thecourse of a full day of towing this can lead to signi-ficant battery drain While strategies for dealing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 7
with this vary considerably by model most fixes in-volve temporarily unplugging one or more fuses fromthe vehiclersquos fuse box before towing A more involvedalternative is to connect the offending circuit throughan owner-added switch allowing these circuits tobe made tow-ready by the mere flip of a switch
Once the tow bar is pinned in the hitch receivermake sure electric connections and safety cables are secure
tow bar is rated to handle vehicles up to 6000pounds Non-binding design facilitates hookup
Demcorsquos Dominator aluminum tow bar has a rating up to 7500pounds Easy trigger release and self-supporting arms provide convenient connection to baseplate
While driving your dinghy this type of towbar remains on the coach tuckedout of harmrsquos way
Aventa LX from Blue Ox uses a ball-in-socket design which allows thearms to swivel 360 degrees for quick hookup The tow bar is rated totow vehicles up to 10000 pounds
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 7
8 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
A n essential ingredient in safe dinghy towing involves a solid properly designed-and-installed mechanical linkage between
the motorhome and the towed vehicle Hitchreceivers tow bars and baseplates must all be ingood working order rated for the weight you intendto pull and when applicable designed for thespecific application
Hitch receivers Check the rating of your hitchsreceiver to ensure that it is rated for the heaviestload you intend to pull If a receiver is already in-stalled on your coach the weight limits and classshould be clearly visible on it
However the riding height of a motorhomerarely matches up with that of the chosen dinghyoftentimes necessitating the use of an adjustable-height drop receiver to allow the tow bar to ridelevel Receivers should be bolted (not welded)in place using at least Grade 5 bolts and lock
washers locking nuts and thread-locking sealerTow bars are available in two basic styles
A-frame or self-aligning A-frame tow bars (offeredas ldquosolidrdquo or ldquofoldingrdquo) while the most economi-cal are designed to fit a limited number of base-plates (the mounting brackets affixed to the dinghy)or specific applications however the folding de-sign will fit a wider range than the solid designThese types of tow bars are strong but heavy andrequire storage space when not in use Hitchingis easier with a helper to guide alignment
Self-aligning tow bars are available in twostyles dinghy-mounted and coach-mountedCoach-mounted units are the most desirable asthere is less chance of damage when not in use mdashand hitching is a one-person operation Highlyadaptable self-aligning tow bars fit a broad rangeof vehicles by attaching to model-specific base-plates Class III (5000-lb) or Class IV (10000-
Baseplate installation does not require weldingor specialized tools but can be involved If youhave any reservations have a professional do it
To hook up using a telescoping tow bar the dinghy vehicle only needs to be nearthe center and mid-length of bar
BEFORE YOU TOWMake sure your equipmentis rated for the dinghyrsquos weight and that you are not exceeding your motorhomersquosgross combination weightrating (GCWR) Confirm hitch heightis correct Confirm all hitch bolts and tow-bar and baseplate fas-teners are securely tightened Confirm all hitch and wiring
connections are engaged and secure all safety chains or cables are attached andall locking pins are properly installed Connect brake system and breakaway device Check motorhome anddinghy for proper functionof taillights brakelightsand turn signals Check tire pressure of all
tires on motorhome and dinghymdash including spare tires Make sure the dinghy is set up for towing steeringunlocked hand brake offgear selector in the positionspecified by manufacturerignition in proper positionlube-pump switch driveshaftcoupler 4WD transfer case and hubs (if applicable) inproper position
THE MOTORHOMEDINGHY LINK
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 8
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
Most flat-towed dinghies track so well that many motor-home drivers have comment-ed ldquoYou donrsquot even know itrsquosthererdquo Front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles with manual transmissionsand most 4WD vehicles with manualtransfer cases are among the easiestand most economical to tow Plus they tend to rank among the lightest vehicles
Some auto manufacturers also produce FWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions that areflat-towable They are popular be-cause the expense of towing equip-ment is minimal and readying for tow-ing involves fewer steps
But some vehicles dorequire special proceduressuch as starting the engineevery 200 miles to circulatetransmission fluid Note thatthis cannot simply be circum-vented by overfilling the trans-mission before towing becausethe problem isnrsquot caused by lackof sufficient fluid but rather bylack of oil circulation Suchpractices although incon-venient are designed toprevent drivetrain damageand must be incorporatedinto the towing routine
Another vehicle-specificconsideration is that towing some dinghies with theignition switch in a position that allows the steer-ing column to remain unlocked also leaves powerapplied to various electrical circuits Over thecourse of a full day of towing this can lead to signi-ficant battery drain While strategies for dealing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 7
with this vary considerably by model most fixes in-volve temporarily unplugging one or more fuses fromthe vehiclersquos fuse box before towing A more involvedalternative is to connect the offending circuit throughan owner-added switch allowing these circuits tobe made tow-ready by the mere flip of a switch
Once the tow bar is pinned in the hitch receivermake sure electric connections and safety cables are secure
tow bar is rated to handle vehicles up to 6000pounds Non-binding design facilitates hookup
Demcorsquos Dominator aluminum tow bar has a rating up to 7500pounds Easy trigger release and self-supporting arms provide convenient connection to baseplate
While driving your dinghy this type of towbar remains on the coach tuckedout of harmrsquos way
Aventa LX from Blue Ox uses a ball-in-socket design which allows thearms to swivel 360 degrees for quick hookup The tow bar is rated totow vehicles up to 10000 pounds
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 7
8 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
A n essential ingredient in safe dinghy towing involves a solid properly designed-and-installed mechanical linkage between
the motorhome and the towed vehicle Hitchreceivers tow bars and baseplates must all be ingood working order rated for the weight you intendto pull and when applicable designed for thespecific application
Hitch receivers Check the rating of your hitchsreceiver to ensure that it is rated for the heaviestload you intend to pull If a receiver is already in-stalled on your coach the weight limits and classshould be clearly visible on it
However the riding height of a motorhomerarely matches up with that of the chosen dinghyoftentimes necessitating the use of an adjustable-height drop receiver to allow the tow bar to ridelevel Receivers should be bolted (not welded)in place using at least Grade 5 bolts and lock
washers locking nuts and thread-locking sealerTow bars are available in two basic styles
A-frame or self-aligning A-frame tow bars (offeredas ldquosolidrdquo or ldquofoldingrdquo) while the most economi-cal are designed to fit a limited number of base-plates (the mounting brackets affixed to the dinghy)or specific applications however the folding de-sign will fit a wider range than the solid designThese types of tow bars are strong but heavy andrequire storage space when not in use Hitchingis easier with a helper to guide alignment
Self-aligning tow bars are available in twostyles dinghy-mounted and coach-mountedCoach-mounted units are the most desirable asthere is less chance of damage when not in use mdashand hitching is a one-person operation Highlyadaptable self-aligning tow bars fit a broad rangeof vehicles by attaching to model-specific base-plates Class III (5000-lb) or Class IV (10000-
Baseplate installation does not require weldingor specialized tools but can be involved If youhave any reservations have a professional do it
To hook up using a telescoping tow bar the dinghy vehicle only needs to be nearthe center and mid-length of bar
BEFORE YOU TOWMake sure your equipmentis rated for the dinghyrsquos weight and that you are not exceeding your motorhomersquosgross combination weightrating (GCWR) Confirm hitch heightis correct Confirm all hitch bolts and tow-bar and baseplate fas-teners are securely tightened Confirm all hitch and wiring
connections are engaged and secure all safety chains or cables are attached andall locking pins are properly installed Connect brake system and breakaway device Check motorhome anddinghy for proper functionof taillights brakelightsand turn signals Check tire pressure of all
tires on motorhome and dinghymdash including spare tires Make sure the dinghy is set up for towing steeringunlocked hand brake offgear selector in the positionspecified by manufacturerignition in proper positionlube-pump switch driveshaftcoupler 4WD transfer case and hubs (if applicable) inproper position
THE MOTORHOMEDINGHY LINK
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 8
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
8 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
A n essential ingredient in safe dinghy towing involves a solid properly designed-and-installed mechanical linkage between
the motorhome and the towed vehicle Hitchreceivers tow bars and baseplates must all be ingood working order rated for the weight you intendto pull and when applicable designed for thespecific application
Hitch receivers Check the rating of your hitchsreceiver to ensure that it is rated for the heaviestload you intend to pull If a receiver is already in-stalled on your coach the weight limits and classshould be clearly visible on it
However the riding height of a motorhomerarely matches up with that of the chosen dinghyoftentimes necessitating the use of an adjustable-height drop receiver to allow the tow bar to ridelevel Receivers should be bolted (not welded)in place using at least Grade 5 bolts and lock
washers locking nuts and thread-locking sealerTow bars are available in two basic styles
A-frame or self-aligning A-frame tow bars (offeredas ldquosolidrdquo or ldquofoldingrdquo) while the most economi-cal are designed to fit a limited number of base-plates (the mounting brackets affixed to the dinghy)or specific applications however the folding de-sign will fit a wider range than the solid designThese types of tow bars are strong but heavy andrequire storage space when not in use Hitchingis easier with a helper to guide alignment
Self-aligning tow bars are available in twostyles dinghy-mounted and coach-mountedCoach-mounted units are the most desirable asthere is less chance of damage when not in use mdashand hitching is a one-person operation Highlyadaptable self-aligning tow bars fit a broad rangeof vehicles by attaching to model-specific base-plates Class III (5000-lb) or Class IV (10000-
Baseplate installation does not require weldingor specialized tools but can be involved If youhave any reservations have a professional do it
To hook up using a telescoping tow bar the dinghy vehicle only needs to be nearthe center and mid-length of bar
BEFORE YOU TOWMake sure your equipmentis rated for the dinghyrsquos weight and that you are not exceeding your motorhomersquosgross combination weightrating (GCWR) Confirm hitch heightis correct Confirm all hitch bolts and tow-bar and baseplate fas-teners are securely tightened Confirm all hitch and wiring
connections are engaged and secure all safety chains or cables are attached andall locking pins are properly installed Connect brake system and breakaway device Check motorhome anddinghy for proper functionof taillights brakelightsand turn signals Check tire pressure of all
tires on motorhome and dinghymdash including spare tires Make sure the dinghy is set up for towing steeringunlocked hand brake offgear selector in the positionspecified by manufacturerignition in proper positionlube-pump switch driveshaftcoupler 4WD transfer case and hubs (if applicable) inproper position
THE MOTORHOMEDINGHY LINK
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 349 PM Page 8
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 9
Connecting tow-bar arms to the baseplate requiresthe use of pins and clips Then secure the safetycables and plug in the electrical umbilical cord
AS YOU GO Observe the speed limit fortowing in each state or provinceyou traverse Maintain adequate stoppingdistance from the vehicle in frontof you A minimum five-secondinterval is recommended Avoid towing in snowy or icy conditions Pay particular attention totraffic merging onto the freewayand be prepared to take evasiveaction to avoid ldquodaydreamersrdquo
Plan ahead mdash most flat-toweddinghies canrsquot be backed morethan a few feet so itrsquos necessaryto focus on easy ingress andegress Most tow-bar manufac-turers will not warrant damagecaused by backing Dollies tendto jackknife quickly Itrsquos better todisconnect the dinghy and driveto a safe place to reconnect Avoid having to make tightturns they put a lot of pressureon tow bars
Towing in deep sand orgravel may cause the dinghyrsquosfront wheels to turn to one sideIf this happens you must manually recenter thembefore continuing Walk around the coach anddinghy to inspect all connec-tions check tire pressure (oruse a monitoring system likethe nVision TPMS from Hop-kins) and look for signs oftrouble every time you stop
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
lb) models are available Contact tow-bar manu-facturers to find out if baseplates are offered forthe dinghy you plan to tow
Baseplates are perhaps the most critical vari-able in this link While tow bars and obviouslyhitch receivers are intended for mass fitment dif-ferent brands models and years of dinghy vehiclesrequire different baseplates and installation pro-cedures so proper selection and installation are essential
Installing a baseplate typically entails veryspecific procedures
On some vehicles the bumper covering (fas-cia) must be temporarily removed Some minordrilling may be required and the bumper coveringandor grille may also require some trimming
Installing the baseplate can even be more in-volved requiring temporary removal of the bumpercovering front fascia panels and some minor trim-
ming of the grille inserts and shock absorption padsOn some vehicles the baseplate installation
process can be even more intricate For examplethe air dam may need to be trimmed or the facto-ry-installed belly pan may require either trimmingor permanent removal Such requirements aredescribed in the manufacturerrsquos fitment charts mdashhopefully eliminating any unpleasant surprises at installation time Todayrsquos baseplates do a goodjob of blending into the exterior lines of the dinghyvehicle
Remember too that all 50 states requireproperly rated safety chains or cables to keep thedinghy from separating from the motorhome if thetow bar or ball fails Safety chains or cables shouldbe connected securely to the dinghy and crossedunder the tow bar then secured to the hitch receiver They should be long enough to allow fullturning without binding but not drag when slack
Once the pins are in the motorhome is drivenahead slowly (or dinghy backed) to lock thearms in position
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 9
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
10 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Should you choose (or already own) a vehicle that is not flat-towable asproduced there are retrofit kits for many
models One retrofitter Remco Manufacturing(wwwremcotowingcom) estimates 80 percent ofpassenger vehicles can be modified to serve asdinghies with its line of retrofit products
For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and some 4WDapplications couplers enable the driveshaft tobe easily disconnected from the transmissionor differential by a cable or lever mounted nearthe driverrsquos seat These kits run about $650and can be installed in about three hours
A transmission-lube pump can be mount-ed and plumbed into some automatic transmis-sions to keep fluid circulating while the vehicleis in tow
Other FWD vehicles can be adapted using aRemco axle-lock disengagement device Checkwith your dealer to make sure a specific modi-fication does not affect the dinghyrsquos warranty
Tow dollies also offer an alternative to flat-towing although they take up space incamp Remember that the dolly weight must befigured in with the total weight of the dinghy
Trailers track better than dollies but theytake up even more precious space in camp
Also the weight of the trailer drastically cuts into the total weight that can be pulled behind a motorhome thereby making thismethod a distant third choice
There are a number of other accessories
for dinghy towing Some like dinghy brakingdevices should be considered mandatorywhile others (such as rock guards and RV underskirts) protect against road debris These components are addressed in ldquoTowingAccessoriesrdquo (page 28) along with dinghywiring and lighting
OTHER TOWING EQUIPMENT
Baseplate kits are designed for specificmodels and come complete with allmounting hardware
Modern baseplates are secured to the frame of the dinghy vehicle While some installationsare a little more complicated the end result is a clean appearance
Lube pumps allow towing of some automatictransmission-equipped vehicles not manu-facturer-approved for flat towing
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING SPONSORSProduced by the editors of MotorHome for the publicationrsquos March issue the 2010 Guide to Dinghy Towing was developed with assistance from the following manufacturers AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING (Blue Ox Products) 888-425-5382wwwblueoxcom DETHMERS MANUFACTURING (Demco) 800-543-3626 wwwdemco-productscom HOPKINS MANUFACTURING 800-835-0129 wwwhopkinsmfgcom ROADMASTER INC 800-669-9690 wwwroadmasterinccom
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TOW
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 10
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
| nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
006-MH1003 Dinghy-What You 122309 350 PM Page 11
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
12 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUPDESPITE AUTO INDUSTRY SETBACKS THIS YEARrsquoS
GUIDE IS CHOCK-FULL OF EXCITING NEW ENTRIES
by CHRIS HEMER
W ith the near-collapse of the US auto-motive industry last year one might sur-mise there is little good news to report
for 2010 After all there have been plant closureslayoffs and even the discontinuation of entiremodel lines But if you think automotive designersand engineers have been sitting around feelingsorry for themselves think again Life (and cars)must go on and while many of your favorite mod-els are gone there are many new exciting manu-facturer-approved dinghy vehicles to talk about
As in previous years vehicles listed in this guidemust be approved by the manufacturer for dinghytowing That means the manufacturer is aware of the practice of dinghy towing and has confirmedthat the vehicle can be flat towed in this mannerwithout voiding the warranty Also the vehicle mustbe towable without requiring significant mechanicalmodification (such as disconnecting the driveshaft)Lastly the vehicle must be towable at a speed of atleast 55 MPH for no fewer than 200 miles beforesome sort of prescribed start-up procedure is re-quired to circulate fluid through the transmission
Wersquove made every effort to check with eachmanufacturer to make sure that our listings arecorrect and current However bear in mind thatmuch of the information we receive is preliminaryand can change by press time Therefore it is thebuyerrsquos responsibility to check with the dealer tobe certain that the vehicle under consideration isdinghy towable prior to purchase Ask to see a copyof the ownerrsquos manual somewhere in the index
there should be a notation for ldquorecreationalrdquo ldquofour-downrdquo or ldquoflatrdquo towing This will not only tell youif the vehicle is in fact towable but what specif-ic procedures are required to prevent damage tothe transmission drive system etc
If the ownerrsquos manual states that the vehicleis not towable or skips the subject entirely thereare kits and products available to make towing aldquonon-towablerdquo vehicle possible However there isthe possibility that the act of flat towing andor theinstallation of a towing product on a nonapprovedvehicle can void the vehiclersquos warranty so itrsquos bestto deal with a reputable aftermarket provider mdashsuch as Remco mdash that can guide you accordingly
We know that there will be some vehicles thatare not listed in this guide that can be towed withsuccess despite the manufacturerrsquos claims to thecontrary How can that be Usually itrsquos becausethe manufacturer has not officially verified that thevehicle in question is towable or because it does notwant to deal with any potential warranty claims thatmay arise as a result of dinghy towing But that doesnot necessarily mean that the vehicle canrsquot be safe-ly dinghy towed When in doubt it is probably bestto stick with the vehicles that are officially approved
Now hellip without further ado letrsquos look at themany changes for the 2010 model year
CHRYSLER GROUPThere arenrsquot a lot of cars from Chryslerrsquos roster that are towable but for 2010 it has submittedthe Caliber as the lone tow-friendly passenger
Jeep Patriot
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 344 PM Page 12
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 13
car Dodge entryThough not a new model the 2010 five-door
Caliber features an all-new interior and two ldquoWorldEnginerdquo offerings a 20-L four cylinder (which replaced the previous 18-L) and a 24-L four cylin-der The compact Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriotare also approved for 2010 and are available ineither 2WD or 4WD configurations Offering thesame engine choices as the Caliber the Compassand Patriot boast up to 25 MPG in 2WD configura-tion with the five-speed manual transmission Theycould be an ideal solution for those who want someoff-road capability but donrsquot want to tow a largeandor heavy vehicle
FORD MOTOR Ford and its other divisions Lincoln and Mercuryhave some significant products on tap for 2010Perhaps most noteworthy is the all-new Ford Tau-rus which is mechanically similar to the LincolnMKS The Taurus is powered by the popular 35-LDuratec V-6 engine and offers a choice of two six-speed automatic transmissions (one with Select-Shift steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles) andeither front- or all-wheel drive
Designed to go head-to-head with segmentleaders like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accordthe Taurus features standard and available tech-nologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning Intelligent Access with PushButton Start Blind Spot Information System withCross Traffic Alert Rain-Sensing Wipers EasyFuel capless refueling Ford SYNC and Voice-Activated Navigation with Sirius Travel Link
The more luxurious Mercury Milan steps thingsup with a standard 270-HP 37-L Duratec V-6 or anew 35-L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers an impressive 355 HP As you might expectthe MKS is available with all the features found inthe Taurus plus niceties such as a THX-II-Certified
audio system adaptive HID headlamps and more Want to fly your eco-friendly flag but donrsquot
want to sacrifice room and comfort Then perhapsthe Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid arewhat yoursquore looking for Powered by a 25-L Duratecfour-cylinder engine that produces 156 HP and apermanent magnet electric motor that churns out106 HP these cars have got plenty of get up andgo yet achieve up to 41 MPG city 36 MPG highway
Ford raised some eyebrows last year when it in-troduced its SUV alternative the Ford Flex This yearthe Lincoln division puts a decisively upscale spin onthe concept with the unique Lincoln MKT Poweredby your choice of a 268-HP 37-L V-6 or the 35-Ltwin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine the MKT comesstandard with a six-speed SelectShift automatictransmission and is available with front- or all-wheeldrive The MKT is available in either six- or seven-passenger variations with two second-row seatingconfigurations Power ldquofold and tumblerdquo second-row seats with heating cooling and power-assistedlumbar adjustment are optional as is a rear con-sole-mounted five-quart capacity refrigerator (six-passenger version only) Got a long trip plannedwith the family Then you may want to go for theavailable dual headrest Family Entertainment Sys-tem with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens thatoffer individual or simultaneous programming
KIA MOTORSFor 2010 the Kia brand gains momentum with threenew models Forte Forte Koup and Soul
Positioned against such well-established econ-omy sedans as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 the Forte is offered in LX EX and SX trim levels ofwhich the latter two are very well equipped Stan-dard features include power windows and doorlocks remote keyless entry air conditioning andsteering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controlsThe SX also offers optional power moonroof and
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Silverado HybridCadillac Escalade HybridBuick LaCrosse
FFoFordrd FFussioi n n HyHyHyybrbrbrbrbrididididd Dodge Caliber
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 13
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
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min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
14 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmersThe whimsically named Forte Koup is Kiarsquos first-
ever two door and it is available in two trim levelsEX and SX Both are similarly equipped to the ForteSedan and the drivetrain choices are the same tooChoose from either a 156-HP 20-L engine in the basemodels or a 24-L that produces 173 HP in the SX
The Soul meanwhile is Kiarsquos entry into theldquotall carrdquo market that it will share with the likes of the Scion xB and Nissan Cube Like those vehi-cles the Soul will offer its owner more opportuni-ties to personalize the vehicle by offering severalpackage and styling combinations Available inSoul Soul+ Soul and Soul Sport trim configura-tions the Soul can be outfitted with features like18-inch wheels power moonroof fog lights airconditioning cruise control and more Itrsquos poweredby either a 122-HP 16-L or a 142-HP 20-Ldepending on the trim level selected
GENERAL MOTORSItrsquos not often a full-size luxury sedan makes our dinghytowing guide but that changes with the introductionof the new Buick LaCrosse Redesigned from theground up the LaCrosse features contemporarystyling and an interior that has won acclaim for itscomfort fit and finish Itrsquos powered by either a 30-Ldirect-injection V-6 with 255 HP or a 36-L direct in-jection V-6 delivering 280 HP Itrsquos available in front-or all-wheel drive and both versions are towable
Speaking of luxury the Cadillac EscaladeHybrid and new SRX crossover also make the listthis year While few would consider the Escalade afuel-efficient or green vehicle it does leave a shal-lower carbon footprint thanks to a tall 308 axleratio and a 60-L V-8 that is now E85 FlexFuel com-patible The more exclusive Escalade PlatinumHybrid features a distinctive front fascia unique22-inch wheels LED headlamps and exclusive interior appointments The new SRX meanwhile
is an all-new design featuring a unique chassis andthe smallest V-6 engine Cadillac offers in NorthAmerica It will be introduced with a 30-L directinjected V-6 that delivers 265 HP but a 28-L turboV-6 that churns out an estimated 300 HP will beavailable by mid-2010 Both engines are backedby a six-speed automatic transmission The SRXis available in either front-wheel drive or with anew all-wheel-drive system featuring an electroniclimited slip differential (ELSD)
The popular Chevy Equinox has been re-designed and it now has a new sibling the GMCTerrain Both vehicles are powered by a new 24-Ldirect-injected four cylinder that delivers a seg-ment-best EPA fuel economy rating of 32 MPG
on the highway An available 30-L direct-injectedV-6 makes an impressive 264 HP and both enginesare mated to a six-speed automatic transmissionAvailable in front- or all-wheel drive the Equinoxand Terrain come standard with six air bags four-wheel disc brakes StabiliTrak stability controltraction control OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
If a fuel-efficient pickup or SUV is what yoursquorelooking for the Chevy SilveradoGMC SierraHybrids and the Chevy TahoeGMC Yukon Hybridsare also deemed towable for 2010 With a 60-LV-8 on board these vehicles arenrsquot shy on poweryet deliver a significant improvement in fuel econ-omy especially in city driving
As yoursquove undoubtedly heard by now GM hasdiscontinued the entire Pontiac and Saturn linesthough a limited number of 2010 Pontiac VibesSaturn VUEs and Saturn Outlooks will hit the marketplace With that in mind GM has request-ed that no Pontiac or Saturn models be listed inthis yearrsquos guide
This guide addresses only 2010 vehiclesGuides for earlier model years are availableonline at wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
Kia Forte Koup
Jeep Compass
Lincoln MKSKia Soul
GMC Yukon HybridFord Taurus
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 14
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
Standard Features Hydraulic surge brake system provides safe
controlled stopping A durable galvanized finish with custom chrome
wheels and radial tires make this tow dolly oneyoull be proud to use for years to come
Will accommodate front wheel drive standard orautomatic transmission vehicles
Less than 100 lbs tongue weight when loadedfor improved ride and handling of towed vehiclesIdeal for towing by mini motorhomes
Tilt-bed frame provides fast easyloading Positive lockingmechanism on tilt-beddoes not require a separate loose pin
Attached ldquoSURE-GRIPrdquo loading rampsprovide safe loadingtraction
Auto-steer cornering makesturns problem-free
Lower center ofgravity for towed vehicle improves stability
Dual safety chains for towed vehicle are standard Wheel jack to help move the dolly when
not loaded LED lights give more illumination
and longer life
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Before After
Unfolded Kar Kaddytrade SS length is 133Many RV park lots are not deep enough to accommodate your motorhome and tow dolly
A folded Kar KaddytradeSS length is 67By using only half the space you can fit both motorhome and tow dolly comfortably in almost any RV lot Or you can store your tow dolly in front of your car in your garage at home
Kar Kaddytrade SS will tow almost any vehicle large or small without difficult time consuming adjustments to axles or ramps This means no bolts to tighten and no heavy components to reposition
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 345 PM Page 15
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
16 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
BUICK
4780 Enclave 65 MPH Yes 1724 $35165- NA Yes 1724 $35165- Run engine at the begin-$41695CXCXL None $41695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 min-utes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
4980 Enclave AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $37165- NA Yes 1622 $37165- Run engine at the begin-$43695CXCXL None $43695 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5minutes Remove 50-ampBATT1 fuse while towing
3929-4045LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1726 $27085- NA Yes 1726 $27085- Run engine at the$33015CXCXLCXS None $33015 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4196 LaCrosse 65 MPH Yes 1625 $31820- NA Yes 1625 $31820- Run engine at the$38110AWD CXL None $38110 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CADILLAC
6016 Escalade None NA Yes 1920 $75975-Hybrid 4WD $87725
SRX 30-L 4224 V-6 65 MPH Yes 1825 $33330- NA Yes 1825 $33330- Run engine at the$43895None $43895 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
SRX 30-L 4307 65 MPH Yes 1723 $39405- NA Yes 1723 $39405- Run engine at the$47540V-6 AWD None $47540 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
CHEVROLET
5645 Avalanche None NA Yes 1420 $38775- Requires optional Active1500 4WD $48865 2-Speed Transfer Case
2780-2793Cobalt 65 MPH Yes 2433 $14990- Yes Yes 2433 $14990- Remove fuse 8 from $235252730-2975SedanCoupe None $23525 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3584 Colorado 4WD None Yes Yes 1723 $20490-$28915
3761-3838Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2232 $22440- NA Yes 2232 $22440- Run engine at the$28045None $28045 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
3929-3975Equinox 65 MPH Yes 2029 $24190- NA Yes 2029 $24190- Run engine at the$29795AWD None $29795 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
3155-3353HHR 65 MPH Yes 2230 $18720- Yes Yes 2230 $18720- Remove fuse 8 from $26255None $26255 Floor Console Fuse
Block while towing
3415-3649Malibu 65 MPH Yes 2230 $21825- NA Yes 2230 $21825- Run engine at the$26605None $26605 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes RemoveIGN SENSOR fusewhile towing
4892-5509Silverado None NA Yes 1418 $24090-1500 4WD $30495
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 16
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 17
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
5882 Silverado None NA Yes 2122 $41490-1500 4WD $48190Hybrid
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Suburban None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Requires optional Active 1500 4WD $55625 2-Speed Transfer Case
Yes 1419 $41340-5524 Tahoe 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Requires optional Active $53615 2-Speed Transfer Case
5936 Tahoe None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
4720 Traverse 65 MPH Yes 1724 $29224- NA Yes 1724 $29224- Run engine at the begin-$37985None $37985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4925 Traverse AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $31224- NA Yes 1623 $31224- Run engine at the begin-$39985None $39985 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
DODGE
2940 Caliber None Yes No 2331 $17090-$25470
Yes 1418 $27745-4369-4405Dakota 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $27745- Before towing press$33920 NEUTRAL button on trans-
fer case for 4 seconds start the engine shift intoREVERSE release brakepedal for 5 secondsshift into DRIVE releasebrake pedal for 5 secondsshut engine off shift intoPARK and disconnect negative battery cable
4893 Ram 1500 None NA Yes 1318 $25965-4WD $43550
Yes Not Rated $31140-6232 Ram 2500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $31140- For models with manual 4WD $44100 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
Yes Not Rated $38545-6948 Ram 3500 None Yes Yes Not Rated $38545- For models with manual 4WD $51595 shift transfer case shut
engine off press brakepedal shift transmission into NEUTRAL shift transfercase lever to NEUTRAL startengine shift transmissioninto REVERSE release brake pedal for 5 seconds shift transmission into DRIVErelease brake pedal for 5seconds turn engine offshift transmission to PARK
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 17
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
18 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
FORD
4078 Edge 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1825 $26920-None $33920
4288 Edge AWD 65 MPH NA NA Yes 1723 $31770-None $49200
3299 Escape I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (a) 2228 $20550- (a) Maximum speed with $25305None $25305 automatic transmission is
65 MPH For automatic transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
3421 Escape V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $23575- NA Yes 1925 $23575- Run engine at the begin-$28055None $28055 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669-3829Escape Hybrid 75 MPH NA NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
NA Yes 1420 $28880-4628 Explorer None NA Yes 1420 $28880- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-6 $38200 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $36510-4719 Explorer None NA Yes 1419 $36510- Only 4WD models with 4WD V-8 $42985 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
NA Yes 1418 $25750-4951 F-150 4WD None NA Yes 1418 $25750- Only 4WD models$42690 equipped with manual-
shift transfer case (notElectronic Shift-On-the-Fly or 2WD vehicles) aretowable Shift manual transfer case into NEUTRAL
6181 F-250F-350 None Yes (b) Yes (bc) Not Rated $28275- (b) Only 4WD models with F-450 Super $62625 manual-shift transfer case Duty 4WD (not Electronic Shift-On-
the-Fly or 2WD vehicles)are towable Shift manualtransfer case into NEUTRALset hub locks to free (c) Only 4WD models with dealer-installed NeutralTow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4471-4839Flex 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $28550- NA Yes 1724 $28550- Run engine at the begin-$49200(2WDAWD) None $49200 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes
2588 Focus 70 MPH Yes Yes No 2435 $15995-None $18485
3285 Fusion 70 MPH Yes Yes Yes (d) 2231 $19620- (d) Maximum speed with (25-L $24330I-4 None $24330 automatic transmission 30-L V-6) is 65 MPH For automatic
transmission run engine at the beginning of eachday for 5 minutes (shift into DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and then every six hours
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 18
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 19
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
3638 Fusion SEL 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $27790- NA Yes 1724 $27790- Maximum speed with (30-L $28755V-6 AWD) None $28755 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatictransmission run engineat the beginning ofeach day for 5 minutes(shift into DRIVE thenREVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Fusion Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $27625- NA Yes 4136 $27625- Run engine at the $31590None $31590 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
3030 Ranger 55 MPH Yes Yes No 2227 $17440-None $21925
3668 Ranger 4WD 55 MPH Yes (e) Yes (f) 1519 $24730- (e) On manual transmis-$26570None $26570 sion models put 4WD
switch in 2WD mode Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly rotary control in 2-high position (f) Only 4WD models with dealer-installedNeutral Tow Kit (part 3L2Z-7H332-AA) are towable
NA Yes 1319 $30335-4753 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1319 $30335- Only 4WD models with4WD V-6 $31770 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 1L2Z-7H332-AB) are towable
NA Yes 1419 $37835-4840 Sport Trac None NA Yes 1419 $37835- Only 4WD models with4WD V-8 $39045 dealer-installed Neutral
Tow Kit (part 6L2Z-7H332-A) are towable
4015-4224Taurus 65 MPH NA Yes 1828 $25170- NA Yes 1828 $25170- Run engine at the $47760(2WDAWD) None $47760 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
GMC
4722 Acadia 65 MPH NA Yes 1724 $31740- NA Yes 1724 $31740- Run engine at the begin-$40185None $40185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
4936 Acadia AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1623 $33740- NA Yes 1623 $33740- Run engine at the begin-$42185None $42185 ning of each day and at
each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove 50-amp BATT1 fuse while towing
Yes3685 Canyon 4WD None Yes Yes 1722 $20490-$28915
NA4798 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 1418 $24090-4WD $30495
NA5882 Sierra 1500 None NA Yes 2122 $41490-4WD Hybrid $48190
3853 Terrain 65 MPH NA Yes 2232 $25850- NA Yes 2232 $25850- Run engine at the $27450None $27450 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes Remove fuse 32 while towing
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 346 PM Page 19
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
20 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4020 Terrain AWD 65 MPH Yes 2029 $27600- NA Yes 2029 $27600- Run engine at the$29200None $29200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes Removefuse 32 while towing
5560 Yukon 4WD None NA Yes 1419 $41340- Only 4WD models equipped$53615 with a two-speed automatic
transfer case are towable
5527 Yukon None NA Yes 2020 $53525-4WD Hybrid $61345
Yes 1420 $43480-5836 Yukon XL None NA Yes 1420 $43480- Only 4WD models 1500 4WD $55625 equipped with a two-
speed automatic transfercase are towable
HONDA
3386 CR-V 65 MPH Yes 2128 $21545- NA Yes 2128 $21545- Run engine at the begin-$26495None $26495 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
3503 CR-V 4WD 65 MPH Yes 2127 $22795- NA Yes 2127 $22795- Run engine at the begin-$27745None $27745 ning of each day press
brake pedal and move shifter through all posi-tions shift into DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeatat least every 8 hours thereafter When towing for long periods remove 75-A accessory radio fuse
2489-2575Fit 65 MPH Yes Yes (g) 2835 $14900- (g) On automatic trans-$19110None $19110 mission models run
engine at the beginning of each day press brake pedal and move shifter through all positions shiftinto DRIVE and hold for 5 seconds then to NEUTRAL
and let engine run for 3 minutes Repeat at least every 8 hoursthereafter When towing for long periods remove 30A radio fuse
HYUNDAI
2365 Accent None Yes No 2834 $9970-$13645
2723 Elantra Blue None Yes No 2635 $14145
2937 Elantra Touring None Yes No 2331 $15995-$19795
3868 Santa Fe GLS None Yes No 1926 $21695-2WD $30545
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 20
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
faster Our baseplates are easy on your suspension and even easier on the eye
all support system but rather a system thatrsquos shock absorbing and integrated
into the individual bumper frame with the bumper design of your vehicle
Our philosophy is to let the baseplate torsion or flex similar to receiver
hitches allowing the baseplate to absorb the forces of towing rather than rigidly
transferring the forces to the frame of the vehicle All Blue Ox baseplates have a three year warranty
absorb towing forces
increase durability
without undue stress
suspension to a minimum
standard for additional baseplate to frame security
electrical plug
come standard for connection of safety cables between motorhome and towed vehicle
more cosmetically appealing installation
front bumper
for model information
1 Locate the removable tab receiver on the front of your vehicle 2 Place the removable tab into the receiver 3 Push the removable tab into the receiver as far as it will go4 Begin turning in a counter-clockwise direction to lock the tab5 Continue to turn the tab until you have heard a ldquoclickrdquo like noise6 After the ldquoclickrdquo noise the removeable tab is successfully locked into the baseplate and ready for towing
1 2 3
4 5 6
For more information ask for ldquoAlexanderrdquo One Mill Road bull POB 430
Pender NE 68047 800-228-9289 bull wwwblueoxcom DTG122109
Blue O
go t
o w
ww
mot
orho
mem
agaz
ine
com
info
luuB
e O
eeecominf
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 21
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
22 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes3292 Sonata None Yes No 2132 $18700
Yes3179 Tucson GLS None Yes No 2230 $189952WD
INFINITI
G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No TBD TBD Yes No TBD TBD Idle engine in neutral fore6MT Convertible 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
TBDG37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $40400 Yes No 1825 $40400 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Coupe 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
3640 G37S Sport 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $37000 Yes No 1825 $37000 Idle engine in neutral for 6MT Sedan 500 miles 2 minutes every 500 miles
JEEP
NA Yes 1319 $43610-5119 Commander None NA Yes 1319 $43610- Only 4WD vehicles LTD 4WD $46125 equipped with Quadra-
Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIsystems are towable Pressbrake pedal turn ignitionkey on engine off shift transmission into NEUTRALshift transfer case intoNEUTRAL start engine shift transmission into DRIVE release brake pedal shut engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3074 Compass None Yes No 2125 $19350-$24015
Yes3222 Compass None Yes No 2124 $21100-4WD $25765
NA Yes 1520 $37975-4488 Grand Cherokee None NA Yes 1520 $37975- Only 4WD vehiclesLaredo X 4WD $41170 equipped with Quadra-(57-L V-8 with Trac II and Quadra-Drive Quadra-Drive II) II systems are towable
Press brake pedal turnignition key on engine off shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL shift transfer case into NEUTRALstart engine shift trans-mission into DRIVErelease brake pedalshut engine off shift transmission to PARK
NA Yes 1521 $25610-4290 Liberty 4WD None NA Yes 1521 $25610- With engine off and$29480 ignition switch in ON
position press brakepedal shift transmissioninto NEUTRAL press recessed transfer caseneutral button for 4seconds start engine shift transmission into REVERSE release brake pedal shift transmissioninto DRIVE release brake pedal turn engine off shift transmission to PARK
Yes3115 Patriot None Yes No 2125 $18245-$23430
Yes3261 Patriot 4WD None Yes No 2124 $20175-$25180
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 22
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 23
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
Yes 1519 $21915-3972 Wrangler 4WD None Yes Yes 1519 $21915- With engine off press $29525 brake pedal shift auto-
matic transmission into NEUTRAL or press clutchpedal on manual trans-mission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shift auto-matic transmission into DRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
Yes 1519 $29655-4242 Wrangler None Yes Yes 1519 $29655- With engine off press brakeUnlimited 4WD $32800 pedal shift automatic
transmission into NEUTRAL
or press clutch pedal on manual transmission shift transfer case lever into NEUTRAL start engine shiftautomatic transmission intoDRIVE or manual transmis-sion into gear release brakepedal turn engine off
KIA
2707 Forte None Yes No 2534 $13695-$18495
2716 Forte Koup None Yes No 2534 $16595-$18695
3157 Optima LX None Yes No 2232 $17495
2365 Rio None Yes No 2834 $11695-$14895
2438 Rio 5 None Yes No 2732 $13895-$15195
No 2027 $199953763Sorento 2WD None Yes No 2027 $19995 Only 2011 model-year 24-L I-4 Base units are towable
2560 Soul None Yes No 2631 $13300-$18195
3230 Sportage 2WD None Yes No 2025 $16995 20-L I-4
LEXUS
3840IS 250 None Yes No 1826 $31845-$38940
LINCOLN
4127 MKS 65 MPH Yes 1724 $40870- NA Yes 1724 $40870- Run engine at the$44860None $44860 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4276 MKS AWD 65 MPH Yes 1623 $42760- NA Yes 1623 $42760- Run engine at the$48770None $48770 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4680 MKT 65 MPH Yes 1723 $44200- NA Yes 1723 $44200- Run engine at the$45495None $45495 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
4857 MKT AWD 65 MPH Yes 1622 $46195- NA Yes 1622 $46195- Run engine at the$49200None $49200 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stop for 5 minutes
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 347 PM Page 23
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
24 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
4210 MKX 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $38345- Run engine at the None $41525 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
4400 MKX AWD 65 MPH NA Yes 1723 $40195- Run engine at the None $44980 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
MAZDA
3272-3337Tribute 70 MPH Yes Yes (h) 2228 $20840- (h) Maximum speed withNone $27600 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH Run engine atthe beginning of eachday for 5 minutes andthen at each fuel stop
3483 Tribute 4WD 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24635- Run engine at the begin-None $29350 ning of each day and
then at each fuel stop
MERCURY
3341 Mariner I-4 65 MPH NA Yes 2128 $23035- Run engine at the begin-None $25305 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3421 Mariner V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1925 $24035- Run engine at the begin-None $26105 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3669 Mariner Hybrid 75 MPH NA Yes 3431 $29750-None $36420
3308 Milan I-4 70 MPH Yes Yes (i) 2231 $21535- (i) Maximum speed with None $24675 automatic transmission
is 65 MPH For automatic transmission run engineat the beginning of each day for 5 minutes (shiftinto DRIVE then REVERSE
then NEUTRAL) and thenevery six hours
3699 Milan V-6 65 MPH NA Yes 1825 $26305- Run engine at the begin-None $28155 ning of each day for 5
minutes (shift into DRIVEthen REVERSE then NEUTRAL)and then every six hours
3720 Milan Hybrid 65 MPH NA Yes 4136 $31590- Run engine at the None $33430 beginning of each day
and at each fuel stopfor 5 minutes
NISSAN
3232 370Z Coupe 70 MPH Yes No 1826 $29930- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $39130 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3426 370Z Roadster 70 MPH Yes No 1825 $36970- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $43320 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
3180 Altima Coupe None Yes No 2331 $22440- Idle engine in neutral 500 miles $27270 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122809 1043 AM Page 24
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 25
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
2768 Cube 18 18S 70 MPH Yes No 2530 $13990- Yes No 2530 $13990- Idle engine in neutral $15030500 miles $15030 for 2 minutes every 500
miles Models withContinuously VariableTransmission (CVT) arenot flat towable
Yes No 1923 $17540-3678 Frontier SE None Yes No 1923 $17540- Idle engine in neutral for$20690XE 2WD I-4 500 miles $20690 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $20440-4149 Frontier SE None Yes No 1620 $20440- Idle engine in neutral for$250102WD V-6 500 miles $25010 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 1519 $23140-4282 Frontier SE None Yes No 1519 $23140- Place transfer case in $27710PRO-4X 4WD 500 miles $27710 the 2H range Idle
V-6 engine in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $15420-2862 Sentra 20 None Yes No 2634 $15420- Idle engine in neutral for$16790500 miles $16790 2 minutes every 500 miles
Yes No 2634 $9990-2516 Versa None Yes No 2634 $9990- Idle engine in neutral $1610016 Base 18 S 500 miles $16100 for 2 minutes every
500 miles
Yes No 1620 $22450-4154 Xterra X None Yes No 1620 $22450- On 4WD models place $28350500 miles $28350 transfer case in the 2H
range Idle engine in neutral for 2 minutesevery 500 miles
Yes No 1620 $24500-4365 Xterra None Yes No 1620 $24500- Place transfer case in $30400Off Road 500 miles $30400 the 2H range Idle engine
4WD in neutral for 2 minutes every 500 miles
SCION
Yes2932 tC None Yes No 2027 $17670
Yes3020 xB None Yes No 2228 $16420
Yes2625 xD None Yes No 2733 $15470
SMART USA
1800 smart fortwo 55 MPH Yes NA 3341 $11990- Yes NA 3341 $11990- Equipped with an auto-$16990None $16990 matic manual transmis-
sion Battery must bedisconnected to tow
SUBARU
Yes3250 Forester 25X None Yes No 2026 $20295-25X Premium $28495
Yes3075 Impreza 25i None Yes No 2027 $17495-25i Premium $19995Outback Sport
Yes NA 1825 $24995- 3174 Impreza WRX None Yes NA 1825 $24995- STI model requires that $34995 the driverrsquos control center
differential (DCCD) be set in manual mode and DCCD control dial be set to the farthestrearward position
Yes No 1927 $19995- 3270 Legacy 25i None Yes No 1927 $19995- Models with 25i Premium $29995 Continuously Variable
25GT Premium Transmission (CVT)25GT Limited are not flat towable
Yes No 1927 $22995- 3386 Outback 25i None Yes No 1927 $22995- Models with 25i Premium $24295 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 25
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
26 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
MAKE BASE SPEED TOWABLE WITH TOWABLE MILEAGE APPROX SPECIAL PROCEDURESMODEL CURB DISTANCE MANUAL WITH AUTO CITY RETAIL PRICE (SEE OWNERrsquoS MANUAL FOR
WEIGHT LIMITS TRANS TRANS HWY RANGE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS)
2010 DINGHY ROUNDUP
SUZUKI
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $25499 NA Yes 1824 $25499 Only 4WD Grand Vitara X Sport 200 miles models fitted with Full-V-6 4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3876 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1824 $26999 NA Yes 1824 $26999 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited V-6 200 miles models fitted with Full-4WD time Four-Mode 4WD
system with transferswitch are flat towableSee ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
3479 Grand Vitara 55 MPH Yes 1925 $26324 NA Yes 1925 $26324 Only 4WD Grand Vitara Limited with 200 miles models fitted with Full-Optional Full- time Four-Mode 4WDTime Four- system with transferMode 4WD switch are flat towable
See ownerrsquos manual for specific instructions
2723 SX4 55 MPH No 2230 $15849 Yes No 2230 $15849 Models with ContinuouslyCrossover 200 miles Variable Transmission 2WD (CVT) or I-AWD are not
flat towable Console-mounted selector must be in the 2WD position
2723 SX4 Sedan LE 55 MPH No 2333 $13359- Yes No 2333 $13359- Models with$14949200 miles $14949 Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2723SX4 Sport S 55 MPH No 2232 $16149 Yes No 2232 $16149 Models with200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
2732 SX4 SportBack 55 MPH No 2230 $17949 Yes No 2230 $17949 Models withGTS 2WD 200 miles Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)are not flat towable
TOYOTA
No 2233 $19395-3285 Camry LE SE None Yes No 2233 $19395- After towing run engine$22165 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Corolla 18-L No 2735 $15350-2767 None Yes No 2735 $15350- After towing run engine$16420 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
No 2229 $18860 2877 Corolla XRS None Yes No 2229 $18860 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
Matrix 18-L No 2632 $16650-2865 None Yes No 2632 $16650- After towing run engine$18640 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
Matrix 24-L No 2128 $20770 3065 None Yes No 2128 $20770 After towing run enginein idle for at least 3minutes before driving
No 2936 $12355-2311 Yaris None Yes No 2936 $12355- After towing run engine$13115 in idle for at least 3
minutes before driving
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 26
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
Highesttowing capacitytt oy f any
aluminum RV mounted Tow Bar onthe market
Most affordable RV mountedTow Bar on tTT he market
Highest towing capacitytt oy f anyRV mounteRR d Tow Bar on
the market
Standard Victory Series Features Modular design Independent arms for easy hook-up Ergonomic friendly adjustable mounting clips Raise or drop male receiver (standard) Stores in multiple positions Adjustable towing angle Includes safety cables Easy trigger release Self supporting
Easy Trigger Release Makes unhooking the Tow Bar safe and easy
Independent Self-supporting ArmsIf it was any easier it wouldhook-up itself
4 -Position Storage LockFolds to either side and rides neatly on the bumper when not in use
Doing Our Best to Provide You the Best
Patent 6502847 6612604 6764092 ampPatent Pending
Boyden bull Iowa
Toll Free 888-689-1810712-725-2311 bull wwwtowdemcocom
Since 1964
7500 lbs Capacity
6000 lbs Capacity
10500 lbs Capacity
Det
hmer
s M
anuf
actu
ring
go
to
ww
wm
otor
hom
emag
azin
eco
min
fo
012-MH1003 Dinghy-Dinghy R 122309 348 PM Page 27
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
28 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
and cars so any one of four solutions may be need-ed for any particular application Adapters arereadily available to electronically match the wiringsystems of the dinghy and motorhome
The traditional method of wiring a dinghy ve-hicle involves the use of steering diodes whichfunction as one-way gates to the flow of electrici-ty allowing power from either the motorhome orvehicle to be supplied to the rear bulbs Becauseno electricity can flow backward through a diodeit also prevents power from the motorhome frombeing inadvertently introduced to any other circuitsin the dinghy vehicle
Many late-model vehicles are equipped withon-board diagnostics that continuously check forproper operation of turn-signal and brakelightbulbs Unfortunately the introduction of aftermar-ket steering diodes into the vehiclersquos wiring canldquofoolrdquo this diagnostic function typically causing itto give false warnings about burned-out bulbs
For this reason it is becoming more commonto modify each of the vehiclersquos tail-lamp assembliesto accept a separate bulb This bulb is then con-nected directly to the motorhome eliminating anyconnections to the vehiclersquos existing wiring harnessThis modification isnrsquot for the squeamish since itusually involves drilling a large hole in the tail-lampreflector Fortunately special snap-in sockets areavailable that make this job somewhat easier Sincethe new socket takes up considerable space behindthe lamp assembly care must be taken in selectinga location for the new hole that avoids socket inter-ference with any other objects behind it
Note that most states allow the turn signals tobe either red or amber in color but only permit thebrakelights to be red Thus on automobiles
Tresearch has been done the financingTTanged the papers signed hellip and that newTTnghy vehicle is now sitting in your drive-TTway Yoursquove shopped carefully to pick a modelTTthatrsquos certified by its manufacturer for flat-towingyoursquove checked the vehiclersquos weight to confirm thatitrsquos within your motorhomersquos safe towing capabili-ties and yoursquove ordered it with any requisite facto-ry options to make it towable with all wheels rolling
Now whatAs any seasoned motorhome owner will tell
you there are a lot of steps involved in getting anew vehicle to the point where it can be towedsafely Unfortunately no automaker offers a plug-and-play solution that makes its products ready forsafe dinghy towing right from the factory Thus itrsquosup to you (and perhaps a knowledgeable towingequipment dealer) to get the job done right
DINGHY WIRINGOne of the most important aspects of dinghy prepinvolves connecting the wiring between the twovehicles Tail brake and turn signals on the backof the dinghy are required in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces so this isnrsquot a step that youcan overlook (Neither side clearance nor backuplights are required and are rarely used)
The most common source of dinghy wiringconfusion revolves around differences in the waythe turn-signal lights are wired on various cars andmotorhomes Some models are wired to supply turn-signal power to the same bulbs that are used forthe brakelights (commonly referred to as a 4-wiresystem) while others use separate amber bulbs forthe rear turn signals (a 5-wire system) Note that 4- and 5-wire systems are used on both motorhomes
Accessory kits like this one from Demco include everything needed fora safe hookup including wiring kits pins locks receptacles mdash and acover to keep the tow bar protected from the elements
TOWING ACCESSORIES
Plug receptacles added to dinghy and motorhomeallow easy hookup ofelectrical connector fortaillights turn signalsand supplemental braking system
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 28
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING | 29
equipped with amber turn signals the new socketis typically installed behind the red brake-lamp lens
In situations where modifications to the ding-hyrsquos original wiring either arenrsquot desirable or practi-cal a set of removable towing lights often providesa workable solution Most of these products areaffixed with magnets although some models canbe equipped with suction cups or hook-and-loop fasteners (ideal for use on plastic or fiberglass sur-faces) A cable is then snaked across the vehicle tothe connector at the motorhome hitch receiver
In some cases the cable is semipermanentlyrouted inside or underneath the vehicle allowingthe lights to be quickly removed and stowed insidethe trunk Several companies offer wireless remov-able towing lights thereby eliminating the need forthis cable altogether
Although many motorhomes come with a fac-tory-installed 4- or 5-pin connector there are situa-tions where a different connector is necessary Someunapproved dinghies equipped with an automatictransmission must also be equipped with an electriclube pump which requires a connector pin for 12-volt DC power (and ideally a separate connector pinfor ground in order to avoid drawing excessive cur-rent through the existing one) Also some auxiliarybraking systems require connections to the motor-home further increasing the connector-pin count
Ideally the industry-standard connectionscheme should be observed when installing thisnew connector so that it can also be used whentowing boats ATVs horse trailers etc
Unfortunately since no industrywide standardexists for wire color codes used in automobiles an-other hurdle in dinghy wiring involves identifyingthe proper wires for the stop turn and tail lamps(as well as a suitable ground connection) If yoursquovehad the foresight to purchase a service manual foryour particular vehicle this can sometimes be accomplished by visual inspection of the wire har-ness More often than not it involves connecting atest light to each suspected wire in order to matchit with the corresponding bulb Note that on 4-wire
systems the same wire may be ldquohotrdquo when eitherthe brake or one of the turn signals is operated
When splicing diodes or other connections intothe vehiclersquos wiring harness it is important to usetop-quality connectors or splices In order to preventany chance of corrosion all connections should bewaterproof Heat-shrink tubing works very well forthis purpose as does self-vulcanizing plastic tape
The Kargard shield from Blue Ox attachesto the tow bar and adds yet another level ofdinghy protection guarding against potentialdamage from road debris
Hopkins nVision Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem keeps an eye on motorhome and dinghy tire air pressure The wireless system can be easily transferred between vehicles andused in the dinghy without the motorhome
One-way diodes left prevent electrical feed-back when using thedinghyrsquos lighting circuitAs an alternative you can install an extra pairof lamps on your dinghyindependent of its elec-trical system above
Adding large rubber flaps at the rear of a motorhome like these from Blue Ox willminimize towed-vehicle damage from debrisdirt and grime kicked up by coach tires
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 29
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
Roadmaster Even Brakefull-time proportional brak-ing system uses a wirelessmonitor to communicatewith the braking device in the dinghy It featuresself-diagnostics and a low-battery warning
Blue Oxrsquos Patriot propor-tional portable braking system has an LED displayand one setup buttonThe unit is controlled by an in-coach wirelessmodule The Patriot has a built-in battery andutilizes an electric cylinderto activate braking arm
30 | 2010 GUIDE TO DINGHY TOWING wwwmotorhomemagazinecom
DINGHY BRAKING SYSTEMSAdequate dinghy braking is an important consideration becausebuilders tend to push the weight of their motorhomes right to the edge of the chassis manufacturerrsquos ratings mdash and the addi-tion of up to several tons of extra rolling weight can be enoughto put the combined vehicle pairrsquos braking performance into un-safe territory
Furthermore some chassis manufacturers specify that towedloads in excess of 1500 pounds should have independent brakesand safety breakaway systems
Although a diverse range of dinghy braking systems is avail-able all aim to perform essentially the same task to apply thedinghyrsquos brakes in tandem with those on the motorhome
One approach uses electronic signals generated in the motor-home to activate the dinghy-vehicle brakes The motorhome com-ponents of the system measure deceleration and send a signalto a power unit connected to the dinghy-vehicle brake pedal Asthe electronic signal varies with motorhome deceleration theamount of brake-pedal pull varies in concert for variable braking
The system includes a vacuum pump in the dinghy vehiclethat maintains full power-brake performance An actuation leveron the control unit in the motorhome allows the motorhome driv-er to apply brakes manually if desired
Other products include those that utilize a self-containedpower pack that temporarily attaches to the dinghyrsquos brake pedalThis package usually contains an air compressor air cylinder andcontrol circuitry Most models have a built-in inertia sensor in thedinghy that automatically applies the brakes without any directsignals from the motorhome in some cases a radio link or con-trol wire is used to receive braking signals from the motorhome
Other systems use a removable air cylinder to push the pedalwith motive power for the cylinder usually supplied by the motor-homersquos existing air compressor (if air brakes are present) or anadd-on electric compressor A signal from the motorhomersquos brake-lights is often used to control operation of the cylinder althoughinertia-sensing control boxes are sometimes used instead Onevariation of this scheme uses an electric linear actuator in lieuof an air cylinder thereby dispensing with the need for a com-pressed air supply
Finally a few systems use the movement in a special hitchdrawbar as the motive power to operate the dinghy brakes As themotorhome decelerates the dinghy forces the drawbar to moveforward and the dinghyrsquos inertia is used to operate a flexible cableconnected to the brake pedal or to move a master brake cylinderthat pressurizes the dinghyrsquos brake lines
Self-contained systems mdash like those from Blue Ox Brake-Buddy and Roadmaster mdash generally have a significant edge inease of installation The use of a supplemental braking systemrepresents a wise investment in ultimate dinghy towing safety
TOWING ACCESSORIES
BrakeBuddyrsquos VantageSelect offers full or propor-tional braking The self-contained housing is light-weight fully adjustable and features advanced terrain sensing that pre-vents false activation Boost model is designed for vehicles equipped withfull-time power brakes
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 351 PM Page 30
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
Roadmaster Inc go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
028-MH1003 Dinghy-Towing A 122309 352 PM Page 31
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
| Brake Buddy go to wwwmotorhomemagazinecominfo
032-MH1003 Dinghy Cover 122309 353 PM Page 32
Top Related