How to Pull an Escalade Behind an RV
by Miles
Towing a Cadillac Escalade behind an RV -- most likely a motor home -- is possible, but it takes some planning to ensure you don't damage your SUV's transmission or exceed the towing capacity of your RV. Make sure to follow the directions and consult your owner's manuals for the chassis of your motor home and also for your Escalade before actually attempting to tow the SUV.
Towing an Escalade Behind an RV
Step 1
Before deciding whether it's possible to tow your Escalade behind an RV, it's important to determine the specifications of each. For instance, you'll want to know the estimated gross weight of your Escalade. You can find this by opening the driver's side door and examining the placard stuck on the doorjamb; alternatively, you can flip through your owner's manual or consult the official GM website for the estimated weight of your SUV. Once you have determined that weight, consult the owner's manual to the chassis of your RV to ascertain the maximum amount the drivetrain is able to tow.
Step 2
Because you cannot disengage the driveshaft on an all-wheel drive Escalade, it is not advisable to "flat-tow" one using a hitch. Doing so could permanently damage your SUV's transmission. Instead, you'll need to find a flatbed trailer. Make sure when looking for a flatbed trailer that you insist on the ability to carry a vehicle as heavy as a Cadillac Escalade. Make sure, also, that you choose a flatbed that you can easily connect and disconnect from an RV.
Step 3
To keep other drivers alert of your moves, you'll need to buy the proper wiring kit to hook your flatbed trailer's turn signals and other lights into the lights of your RV. That way, when you're making a turn or stepping on the brakes, drivers following close behind will know what you are doing.
Step 4
Once you have determined your RV can haul the weight of an Escalade, and that your flatbed trailer can carry the weight of the SUV, you're ready to connect the trailer to your motorhome. Your motorhome will come with the proper towing apparatus to connect to the flatbed; make sure you follow the instructions to ensure a proper securing of the trailer to the RV.
Step 5
To complete the process, purchase the proper bungee cords and towing chains to completely secure your SUV to the flatbed trailer. That way, in case of accidental disengagement of the Escalade's transmission or brakes, the SUV won't go flying.
References
Tips
- If the prospect of flatbed towing a heavy SUV is too daunting, you might consider purchasing a smaller SUV or car that is available with a manual transmission. You can put a manual transmission in neutral gear and tow the car behind an RV with a simple hitch.
Things You'll Need
- RV with chassis capable of towing at least 7,300 pounds
- Flat-bed trailer
- Wiring
Warnings
- Never attempt to tow an Escalade with a hitch. You will likely ruin your SUV's transmission if you do so. Also, always make sure your RV's chassis is prepared to tow the weight of an Escalade. A smaller, "class C" motorhome is not likely to have the horsepower or torque to tow such heft.
Writer Bio
Miles Davis is a New York-based writer and editor. He lives in Manhattan. He has been a writer and editor for more than 15 years. Among his interests are newspapers, public radio, travel, urban planning, books, movies and music. A love for travel sparked at a young age means he doesn't like to stay in one place too long.
