Dolly tow 2018 Toyota Rav4 FWD

[greyhoundexpress]

Hello all and thanks in advance for any suggestions.

We purchased an EZE Tow dolly with hydraulic disc brakes and are hauling a 2018 Rav4 fwd. This dolly requires that the steering be unlocked so we had to turn the car on to accessory mode. We then disconnected the battery so that nothing would drain it during the drive from the factory where we purchased the dolly.

When we got home and went to remove the car from the dolly, we apparently followed an incorrect sequence and the steering locked up so tight that we almost couldn't get it off. We googled the issue and had to press the brake, push the ignition button while turning the wheel.

What I'm looking for is anyone who can help with the correct sequence or the best way to tow this vehicle on the dolly. I've called Toyota dealers to speak with their service dept, and they've been no help at all. I've googled and not found any help either.

Thanks for any input!
Kim

[DonaandDon]

Why not visit your RAV4 service department?

[greyhoundexpress]

I've called several different dealer service departments, and none of them have any input!! When the steering wheel was locked we called the local dealer, and the service guy suggested that we would have to have it towed to them because there was likely damage to the steering column! After a quick search we figured out how to unlock it on our own.

Just yesterday I tried calling another dealer and was hung up on 3 times. I'm trying to email the national Toyota website now

[vcbice]

Whar does the owner's manual say about towing with a dolly ot tow truck?

[chfraser01]

We tow a 2017 Rav4 FWD but we use the Demco Kar Kaddy. It is my understanding to lock the steering wheel. Maybe a difference between the 2 different brand dollies? This is out of the manual for Kar Kaddy.

Step 7.

Drive vehicle onto the platform - front forward -

until tires touch the wheel stops at the front of each side of

the platform and the platform tilts to a flat position. Make

sure the car is centered on the platform. Towed vehicle tires

must fit in wheel troughs without overhanging sides. Engage

towed vehicle parking brake.

Shift loaded car into “park”

and lock steering wheel with front tires in a straight position.

If the car does not have a locking steering column

the steering wheel must be tied securely with front tires

in a straight position.

[Scott91370]

I read the manual for the Eze Tow and it sure does say to leave the locking steering wheel unlocked. I don't understand this, I wouldn't want my towed vehicle/trailer to have more than one pivot point - doesn't seem like it would track correctly.

[Balibe]

They removed the Articulating Pin from the Eze Tow dolly design a few years ago as most manufactures do not have locking steering wheels any longer.

Without the articulating pin, the steering wheel needs to be unlocked for turns. Basically the front wheels are secured to the dolly, the vehicle pivots on the front wheels during turns.

If you go to their homepage at http://cartowdolly.com , there is a video that shows turns why the steering wheel needs to be unlocked. Starts about 2/3rds of the video time ……

[Scott91370]

That does make sense since otherwise you would have a hayride style trailer (a cart if you will) and I suppose that wouldn't work too well when pulled at higher speeds or sharp turns.

[chfraser01]

I did go online and watch the video showing the steering wheel turning while in turns. Pretty interesting. The Kar Kaddy wheels actually turn to track the motorhome. It is interesting watching it track the way it does.
We had a Camry Hybrid before the RAV4 and it did not like being towed on the dolly. Hit a bump and the horn would start honking for a few minutes. When we unloaded it, it would flash all kinds of codes and handled funny for about 1/2 mile. Then it would go back to normal. The Toyota shop did not have an answer for that. I guessed it may have something to do with the speed sensors on the wheels but don’t know enough about cars to figure it out.

[Steve1152]

i have a toyota camry 2003. i put it on my ez tow dolly and turn the ignition off, but dont take the key out. the steering wheel doesnt lock and it works very good. hope it works for you.

[greyhoundexpress]

Originally Posted by vcbice

Whar does the owner's manual say about towing with a dolly ot tow truck?

It's pretty vague, just states that dolly towing with front wheels up is fine, no flat towing.

thanks

[greyhoundexpress]

thanks, yes ours is different in that the steering wheel must remain in the unlocked position