Choosing a tow vehicle

When choosing a tow vehicle, there are a few things apart from towing capacity and paint colour that need to be considered.

Automatic Vs manual transmissions

There are a variety of opinions on the suitability of particular transmission types, however ultimately the decision is up to the end user.

In general, smaller vehicles are better suited to manual transmissions due to the lower internal power losses through these gearboxes; while automatic transmissions, when mated to larger capacity engines, offer flexibility and reduced driver effort. Automatic transmissions eliminate the potential for premature clutch wear arising from hill starts and manoeuvring.

Additionally, many manufacturers rate vehicles fitted with automatic transmissions with a much higher towing capacity than the manual version of the same vehicle. 

When using vehicles with an automatic transmission for heavy towing, it is desirable, and in some cases mandatory as part of the towing package, to fit a transmission cooler to prevent transmission overheating. For more information on this point consult your vehicle’s dealer or a reputable automatic transmission specialist.

RWD Vs FWD

There has been considerable debate over the suitability of front wheel drive vehicles for towing. Traditionally, larger 6 and 8 cylinder rear wheel drive vehicles have been popular for towing and manufacturers such as Ford and Holden ensure their large passenger cars have ample towing capacity.

Increasingly though, front wheel drive has become more common in larger cars and there are a number of front wheel drive 6 cylinder vehicles on the market that have quite significant towing capacities. 

Most vehicles are capable of towing and both front wheel drive and rear wheel drive vehicles, regardless of the number of cylinders they have, are suitable providing the manufacturer’s towing recommendations are followed.  It’s fair to say however, that front wheel drive vehicles tend to be slightly more sensitive to poor load distribution, although inappropriate trailer loading can adversely affect any vehicle, regardless of its drive configuration.

4WDs Vs Passenger cars

You’ve probably noticed that big 4WDs are popular tow vehicles for caravans and horse floats, and there is good reason for this.  Quite simply, few passenger cars have sufficient towing capacity to legally tow heavy trailers such as larger caravans and fully loaded horse floats. While in comparison, larger 4WDs often have quite high towing capacities and usually aren’t subject to the speed restrictions that apply to many passenger cars operating near their maximum towing load.

While we certainly aren’t suggesting that a big 4WD is essential for towing, there will be cases where there won’t be too many other options.

Petrol Vs Diesel Vs LPG

Where the vehicle you are considering has an optional diesel engine, it may be worth considering. However before making this decision it’s worth doing some homework first.  Diesel engines have a reputation for better fuel consumption, however this alone may not justify the additional cost over an equivalent petrol model.  Unless you drive big distances every year or use lots of fuel, the savings on fuel may take many years to repay the increased cost of the diesel engine option.

Remember that at times diesel can be significantly dearer than petrol and diesel engines are generally more costly to service as parts such as filters can be considerably more expensive.
  
Alternatively, instead of paying extra for a diesel engine you may wish to consider an LPG powered vehicle.  LPG has a proven track record in reducing fuel costs and is widely available, but it isn’t for everyone, or every vehicle.  For more information see our brochure “LP Gas Fact Sheet”.

Vehicle maintenance and repairs

Heavy towing is hard on a vehicle so expect to spend more on servicing and maintenance if you tow regularly.  Most vehicle manufacturers regard towing as severe use and vehicle maintenance schedules usually outline what additional servicing is required.  However don’t overlook the fact that things like tyres and brake pads will also wear out faster when towing.