Can 2016 Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Be Flat Towed Behind a Motorhome

Updated 10/11/2016 | Published 10/10/2016

Question:

I just bought 2016 ram 1500 with auto transmission. The owners manual says it can be pulled in neutral for short distance. Is this possible they are just on the safety side? Can it be pulled behind motor home safely on four wheels?

asked by: William A

Helpful Expert Reply:

Vehicle makers get the final word on whether their cars and truck can be safely flat towed, since there is no better authority. Your owner's manual should reflect the specific equipment in your truck, the particular transmission and differential, which determines whether it can be flat towed wheels down without damage to anything.

Page 714 of the online manual for the 2016 Ram 1500 says that the 2WD version cannot be flat towed but the 4WD with automatic transmission can be flat towed if you follow the guidelines spelled out in the manual. Automatic transmission trucks should be shifted into PARK and the transfer case shifted into NEUTRAL. Pages 714 through 722 detail the procedures required. The 2WD version can be dolly towed with the rear wheels off the ground.

Check your own manual to confirm whether any other special preparation steps are required before flat towing the truck. The linked article covers each of the items required for safe and legal flat towing, which include a tow bar, safety cables, a wiring/lighting kit, high/low hitch adapter, base plates and a supplemental braking system.

expert reply by: Adam R