Ford Escape, can it be towed safely?

[Bluestream]

I am looking at buying a Ford Escape with a blown motor. Its a 2001 V6 4x4 automatic. Would it be safe for the tranny to tow this vehicle in Neutral for say 20-30 miles? I mean tow with a chain with another truck?

 

[97f150]

I wouldnt chance it, unless you plan on another transfer case as well.

 

[Solo2driver]

It uses a viscous center diff, my wife has one with the V6 and 4WD. I just have them use a flatbed the last two times we towed it (one was for the throttle cable popping out when I was out of town, the other was a bad alternator killing the battery).

Fine car otherwise, great on roadtrips even with two small kids in the back!

 

[daves87rs]

Originally Posted By: 97f150
I wouldnt chance it, unless you plan on another transfer case as well.


Agreed. My BIL towed a trooper with his ram, and was very lucky just to get it home.



Get a good deal on the Escape?

 

[JustinH]

You can pop the driveshaft out of it to flat tow it.

Or you can just rent a car trailer from uhaul, that might be easier.

 

[bretfraz]

Can't you put the 4x4 system into neutral? That way you can easily tow it. Lots of RV owners buy 4WD vehicles to be towed because their drivelines are disconnected in neutral.

 

[Bluestream]

Originally Posted By: daves87rs

Get a good deal on the Escape?


Yes, $400. It has 100K miles, body is good, seats are a bit worn..

 

[Bluestream]

Originally Posted By: JustinH
You can pop the driveshaft out of it to flat tow it.

Or you can just rent a car trailer from uhaul, that might be easier.


You mean un-hook the rear drive shaft? That might work..

 

[daves87rs]

Originally Posted By: Bluestream
Originally Posted By: daves87rs

Get a good deal on the Escape?


Yes, $400. It has 100K miles, body is good, seats are a bit worn..



Wow! Nice...wish I could find a deal like that...