Peter Banks If you’re an RV owner and also own a Subaru Outback, towing your car behind your RV can be a great way to save on rental car fees and have transportation while on the road. Before hitting the road, it’s important to know how to safely and efficiently tow your car behind your RV. In this guide, we’ll show you the step-by-step process of towing a Subaru Outback behind an RV.
Equipment needed for towing a Subaru Outback behind an RV
To tow a Subaru Outback behind an RV, you’ll need the following equipment:
- A tow bar: The tow bar connects your car to the RV.
- Baseplates: Baseplates attach to your car’s frame and provide a secure connection to the tow bar.
- Safety cables: Safety cables provide an extra layer of security in case the tow bar comes loose.
- Wiring: Wiring connects your car’s taillights and brake lights to the RV’s electrical system.
Before purchasing this equipment, it’s important to ensure that it’s compatible with your Subaru Outback and your RV.
Preparing the Subaru Outback for towing
Before towing your Subaru Outback, there are some steps you need to take to prepare the car:
- Disconnect the battery: Most Subaru Outback models require the battery to be disconnected for towing. Check your car’s owner manual to ensure proper disconnection.
- Set transmission to neutral: The transmission needs to be set to neutral to prevent damage to the drivetrain. To do this, start the engine, press the brake pedal, and shift the transmission to neutral.
- Secure the gear shift: Use a bungee cord or a piece of rope to secure the gear shift in place. This ensures that the transmission doesn’t slip out of neutral during towing.
Techniques for hooking up the towing equipment to the RV
After preparing your Subaru Outback for towing, the next step is to connect the towing equipment to your RV:
- Attach the baseplates: Attach the baseplates to your car’s frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Connect the tow bar: Attach the tow bar to the baseplates and the receiver on your RV.
- Install the wiring: Install the wiring according to manufacturer instructions. Ensure that all lights on the towed car are functioning properly.
Safety tips for towing a car behind an RV
Towing a car behind an RV requires additional safety precautions to ensure a safe and comfortable journey:
- Check your equipment regularly: Before hitting the road, check your towing equipment and ensure that everything is securely attached to your car and RV and that your brake lights and turn signals are working correctly.
- Observe weight limits: Ensure that your RV can handle the weight of your towed vehicle. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight limits.
- Drive cautiously: Remember that your RV and towed vehicle have increased length and weight compared to just driving your RV alone. Take turns and corners more slowly, brake earlier, and allow more space between vehicles.
- Stop regularly: When towing a vehicle behind an RV, it’s important to take regular stops to check your equipment, brakes, and tires.
Guidelines for driving with a tow vehicle
Driving with a tow vehicle can be a little different than driving an RV alone. Here are some guidelines to help you stay safe on the road:
- Plan your route: Plan your route ahead of time, taking into consideration the width of the roads, clearance heights, and weight limits.
- Adjust your driving style: Your RV’s turning radius will be affected by the towed vehicle, so take turns and corners more carefully. Always keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Follow posted speed limits: Never exceed posted speed limits, and adjust your speed according to road conditions.
Unhooking the tow car and reconnecting it for regular use
When you reach your destination, unhooking the towed vehicle is necessary to use the vehicle normally. Follow these steps to unhook the tow vehicle:
- Turn off the RV engine: To avoid any accidents, turn off the RV engine and apply the parking brake.
- Disconnect the wiring: Disconnect the wiring from the RV and towed vehicle.
- Remove the tow bar: Remove the tow bar from the baseplates.
- Shift the transmission to "P" or "Park": Shift the transmission to "P" or "Park" and secure the gear shift.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is it safe to tow a Subaru Outback behind an RV?
A: Yes, it’s safe to tow a Subaru Outback behind an RV. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for towing and to use the correct equipment.
Q: Can I tow a Subaru Outback with all four wheels on the ground?
A: Yes, you can tow a Subaru Outback with all four wheels on the ground. However, you’ll need to use a tow bar and baseplates.
Q: Do I need to disconnect the battery when towing a Subaru Outback?
A: Yes, most Subaru Outback models require the battery to be disconnected before towing.
Q: How long can I tow a Subaru Outback behind an RV?
A: Subaru does not recommend towing a Subaru Outback for extended periods. Check your owner manual for specific guidelines.
Towing a Subaru Outback behind an RV can be a great way to have transportation and save on rental car fees. By following these step-by-step instructions and safety guidelines, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Always remember to check manufacturer recommendations and to use the right towing equipment. Happy towing!
