Flat tow your dodge ram 1500? here’s the definitive guide

Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, involves connecting a vehicle to another vehicle to be towed behind. The Dodge Ram 1500 is a popular pickup truck, and many owners want to know if it can be flat towed. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of flat towing the Dodge Ram 1500, including its capabilities, requirements, and potential limitations.

Can the Dodge Ram 1500 Be Flat Towed?

The answer is yes, the Dodge Ram 1500 can be flat towed. However, it’s important to note that not all models and configurations are suitable for flat towing.

Compatible Models and Configurations

Only certain models and configurations of the Dodge Ram 1500 are approved for flat towing. These include:

• Model Years: 2019 and newer
• Transmissions: 8-speed automatic transmission (8HP75)
• Transfer Case: Part-time four-wheel drive (4WD) with a manual transfer case
• Rear Axle: 3.92 or 4.10 gear ratio

Requirements for Flat Towing

To flat tow the Dodge Ram 1500 safely and effectively, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Tow Bar: A suitable tow bar rated for the weight of the Ram 1500.
• Safety Chains: Safety chains to prevent the towed vehicle from separating from the towing vehicle in case of a disconnect.
• Base Plate: A base plate installed on the front of the Ram 1500 to attach the tow bar.
• Towing Harness: A wiring harness to connect the electrical systems of the towing and towed vehicles.
• Supplementary Brake System: A supplemental braking system to assist in stopping the towed vehicle.

Steps for Flat Towing

Once you have the necessary equipment, follow these steps to flat tow the Dodge Ram 1500:

1. Prepare the Ram 1500: Shift the transmission into neutral, disable the traction control, and place the transfer case in the “N” (neutral) position.
2. Connect the Tow Bar: Attach the tow bar to the base plate on the Ram 1500.
3. Connect the Safety Chains: Cross the safety chains underneath the tow bar and attach them to the towing vehicle.
4. Connect the Electrical Harness: Plug the towing harness into the electrical outlet on the Ram 1500 and the corresponding socket on the towing vehicle.
5. Install the Supplementary Brake System: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the supplemental braking system in the Ram 1500.
6. Test the System: Before driving, test the tow bar, safety chains, electrical connections, and supplemental braking system to ensure they are functioning properly.

Limitations and Cautions

While the Dodge Ram 1500 can be flat towed, there are some limitations and cautions to keep in mind:

• Towing Capacity: The towing capacity of the towing vehicle must be sufficient to handle the weight of the Ram 1500.
• Speed Limit: The maximum recommended towing speed for the Ram 1500 is 70 mph.
• Distance: Flat towing the Ram 1500 should be limited to short distances and not for extended periods.
• Drive Shaft: The drive shaft on the Ram 1500 should be disconnected during flat towing to prevent damage.
• Transmission Damage: Flat towing the Ram 1500 without following the proper procedures can damage the transmission.

Troubleshooting Flat Towing Issues

If you encounter any issues while flat towing the Dodge Ram 1500, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

• Electrical Problems: Check the connections of the electrical harness and ensure the fuses are not blown.
• Braking Problems: Verify that the supplemental braking system is properly installed and functioning.
• Steering Problems: Make sure the tow bar is securely attached and that the alignment is correct.
• Overheating: Monitor the temperature of the Ram 1500’s engine and transmission, and pull over to allow them to cool down if necessary.

Wrap-Up

Flat towing the Dodge Ram 1500 is possible with certain models and configurations and by following the proper procedures and precautions. By carefully planning and executing the flat towing process, you can safely and conveniently transport your Ram 1500 behind another vehicle.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I flat tow a 2018 Dodge Ram 1500?
A: No, only model years 2019 and newer are approved for flat towing.

Q: Do I need a special transmission for flat towing the Ram 1500?
A: Yes, the 8-speed automatic transmission (8HP75) is required for flat towing.

Q: Can I flat tow the Ram 1500 with a full-time four-wheel drive?
A: No, only part-time four-wheel drive with a manual transfer case is compatible with flat towing.

Q: How often should I disconnect the drive shaft when flat towing?
A: The drive shaft should be disconnected before flat towing and reconnected before driving the Ram 1500 on its own.

Q: What is the maximum towing distance for the Ram 1500?
A: Flat towing the Ram 1500 should be limited to short distances and not for extended periods.