For Jeep enthusiasts who love adventure, dinghy towing—or flat towing—a Jeep Wrangler behind your RV is the ultimate combination of freedom and convenience. It lets you bring your Jeep along on RV trips, giving you the flexibility to explore trails, beaches, and local streets without moving your RV. Here’s everything you need to know about safely flat towing your Wrangler.
1. What Is Dinghy (Flat) Towing?
Dinghy towing means your Jeep Wrangler’s four wheels remain on the ground while it’s pulled behind an RV. Unlike trailer towing, there’s no need for a separate trailer—the Jeep becomes a “dinghy” vehicle. With the right setup, it’s safe, convenient, and ideal for both short jaunts and long road trips.
2. Is Your Jeep Wrangler Flat-Towable?
Wranglers can be flat-towed safely. Key considerations include:
Transmission type: Most automatic and manual Wranglers are compatible, but always check the owner’s manual for your model year.
Drivetrain: 4x4 models require special procedures, such as putting the transfer case in neutral.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended steps to prevent damage.
3. Essential Dinghy Towing Equipment
To flat tow your Jeep Wrangler safely, you’ll need:
Baseplate: A frame-mounted bracket that attaches your Jeep to the tow bar.
Tow bar: Rated for your Jeep’s weight and approved for flat towing.
Safety cables/chains: Backup in case the tow bar connection fails.
Supplemental braking system: Legally required in most states, this brakes your Jeep when the RV slows down.
Wiring harness: Connects your Jeep’s lights to the RV so brake lights and turn signals work in sync.
Optional but recommended: neutral tow kit for easier flat-towing setup and drivetrain protection.
4. How to Prepare Your Jeep for Flat Towing
Before hitting the road:
Put the Jeep in neutral and follow any transfer case instructions.
Engage the parking brake on the RV, not the Jeep.
Check all tow connections—baseplate, tow bar, cables, and lights.
Test brake lights and turn signals to ensure visibility to other drivers.
5. Safe Driving Tips While Flat Towing
Drive slower than normal, especially on highways.
Take wide turns to avoid curbing the Jeep’s tires.
Increase following distance—your Jeep adds extra length and momentum.
Check connections periodically during long trips.
6. After Your Trip
Once you’ve reached your destination:
Inspect tires, wiring, and the baseplate for wear or damage.
Wash off road grime, especially after coastal or off-road trips.
Lubricate any drivetrain components if recommended by your Jeep manual.
7. Why Flat Towing Is Perfect for Jeep Owners
Flat towing your Wrangler behind an RV:
Keeps your Jeep ready for day trips or off-road adventures.
Eliminates the need for a trailer, saving time and space.
Preserves the Jeep’s independence while keeping your RV as your home base.
At Beach Buggys, we can help you equip your Jeep Wrangler for safe flat towing, including installing baseplates, tow bars, and wiring kits. With the right setup, your Jeep becomes the perfect adventure companion for every RV trip.
