We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. Thanks for the support! 👍
There are a variety of pickup trucks that can be flat towed. They include the Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Colorado, Ford F-150, Ford Ranger, GMC Sierra HD, Jeep Gladiator, Jeep Wrangler, and Ram 1500. Flat towing a pickup truck is best suited for AWD and 4×4 manual transmissions.
Please Note: This article is meant as a reference. You should always check your user manual, or consult your manufacturer before flat-towing.
1. Chevrolet Silverado
As one of the most heavy-duty trucks in the industry, the Chevrolet Silverado has a heavy curb weight of 6,000 to 7,000 pounds. This is an important consideration when towing it behind your motorhome.
Since this is a heavy-duty truck, you should verify with your motorhome’s owner’s manual for towing capacity. This truck should be properly equipped with the right tools, a four-wheel drive, and a two-speed transfer case system.
2. Chevrolet Colorado
This model is a mid-sized pickup truck. Since Colorado is not as heavy-duty as other models, it weighs less. It is easy to flat tow behind your motorhomes such as a Class A or Class C camper.
The 4×4 models can be flat towed, however, the 2WD models can not. The Chevrolet Colorado is known for its stable handling and high fuel efficiency. This combination makes it an ideal choice for towing through town roads and highways.
3. Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is a unique model due to its strength, durability, and compact size. This model is reliable and consistent. The F-150 must have 4WD.
Electronic gear is not ideal for flat towing. You will need a manual transfer case. Electronic gear is not suitable for flat towing due to the inability of power transfer into other wheels during towing.
4. Ford Ranger
Similar to the F-150, the Ranger can be flat towed. The 4×4 model is preferable for flat towing with the Ranger.
Attempting to flat tow your 2WD model is risky and not advisable. If you choose to do so, make sure to carefully read your driver’s manual.
5. GMC Sierra HD
This pickup truck is heavy-duty and weighs between 6,000 and 7,000 pounds. A single-speed transfer case and two-wheel drive are not suitable for towing at all.
Your GMC Sierra HD must have 4WD and a tow bar. It is important to avoid damage to your truck and the motorhome by taking the right precautions, especially with a heavyweight truck such as the Sierra.
6. Jeep Gladiator
The Gladiator model is similar to the brand’s popular Wrangler model. It is an off-road truck. The flat towing of this pickup is suitable for automatic and manual transmissions, they just need to be in neutral.
The Gladiator can tow a heavy load, with a 7,650-pound capacity. The Jeep brand is known for other great features such as a fold-down windshield. There are no restrictions in terms of distance and speed with this vehicle.
7. Jeep Wrangler
This popular vehicle is not classified as a truck, however, it is rugged and tough. It can be flat towed if you prefer the handling of a Wrangler over the Gladiator.
Since this vehicle is not a classic pickup, make sure to go over your owner’s manual to ensure all safety precautions are met.
8. Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 has been consistently rated as one of the best trucks for flat towing, cruising, and fuel efficiency. In addition to these great specs, the cabin has plenty of space.
This pickup has a manual transmission and a 4×4 model is preferable for towing.
The Basics on Flat Towing a Pickup Truck
When it comes to pickup trucks, most models are suitable for flat towing. With that being said, there are safety precautions to take into account.
For example, you’ll need to check the specifications of your motorhome to indicate if towing another vehicle behind it is permissible. In addition to this, you’ll need to verify your hitch/tow bar is approved by your truck manufacturer.
Otherwise, the truck’s warranty will be void. If you are planning on flat-towing your truck regularly, make sure to use safety chains and other towing accessories.
Never flat tow with an individual in the vehicle and always set it in neutral gear. There are certain rules for each truck. Let’s take a look at each pickup truck mentioned above and how to properly prepare them for towing.
What pickups can not be flat towed?
Pickup trucks are popular vehicles for flat towing, but not all pickups can be flat towed. Some pickups have a four-wheel-drive that must be disengaged before flat towing, and others have automatic transmissions that can be damaged by flat towing.
And then there are those pickups that simply don’t have the right kind of hitch for flat towing. So if you’re thinking about flat towing your pickup, be sure to check the owner’s manual first to see if it’s compatible with flat tows. Otherwise, you could be in for a big (and potentially expensive) surprise.
Some great examples of pickups that can’t be flat towed are the Ford Maverick, and the Hyundai Santa Cruz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Toyota Tundra be flat towed?
The Toyota Tundra is a pickup truck that is popular among outdoors enthusiasts and those who need a reliable vehicle for work or play. However, the Tundra cannot be flat towed, which means it cannot be pulled behind another vehicle on a flat surface. This can be a problem if you’re looking to flat tow the Tundra behind your RV or camper. The good news is that there are ways to tow the Tundra without flat towing it.
Can a Honda CRV be flat towed?
The Honda CRV is a popular choice for flat tow behind a pickup truck. It is lightweight and has a low center of gravity, making it easy to tow. The CRV also has a strong frame and suspension, making it well-suited for flat tow.
Conclusion
Flat towing your pickup is a convenient way to transport your vehicle without having to purchase a trailer. It is important to adhere to all guidelines in your owner’s manual as flat towing causes some wear and tear. With the right truck, flat towing can be a safe and easy way to travel with your vehicle.
