Flat towing versus tow dolly — what’s the right choice for your dinghy vehicle?
So you’ve decided to tow a car (dinghy) behind your motorhome. Now comes the big question: do you flat-tow your vehicle or use a tow dolly?
Much of this decision is based on the RVer’s intended dinghy type and make.
Let’s look at the pros and cons of each scenario:
Flat Towing (Towing 4-wheels down)
Pro
- Equipment needed usually less costly than a tow dolly
- Quick, one-person hook-up and disconnect.
- No additional storage needed at destination
Con
- Won’t work on all vehicles due to drivetrain limitations.
- Can cause “Feathering” of tow vehicle’s front tires over time.
- Most flat-towed dinghies can’t be backed more than a few feet.
Pro
- No baseplate plate needed on automobile.
- Can transport most front-wheel-drive vehicles.
- Can be backed like other trailers.
Con
- Capital costs usually more than to flat tow.
- Storage needed both at home and at destination.
- Addition registration and insurance may be required, depending on location.
- Generally takes a little longer for loading and unloading
Well, as you can see, both have their points, for and against.
So there are some of the considerations that you may need to study. Again, there are no generic one-fits-all solutions here. What works for one may not be the right choice for another. Weigh the pros and con’s and determine which is best for you.
Consult the 2018 Guide to Dinghy Towing to help you make your decision.
Peter Mercer — Pulling For You