Flat towing a vehicle can be a convenient way to bring your car along for the adventure—especially if you’re driving an RV or planning a long road trip. The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is a popular pick for flat towing because of its rugged build and towing-friendly design. But if you’ve never done this before, the process can seem confusing. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to flat tow your Gladiator safely and confidently, avoiding damage and common mistakes.
What Is Flat Towing?
Flat towing—sometimes called dinghy towing—means pulling a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Unlike trailer towing, you don’t lift the car or use dollies. The Gladiator is built for this, thanks to its manual transfer case and neutral mode. Flat towing is popular with RV owners who want their Jeep ready for off-roading when they reach their destination.
Essential Equipment For Flat Towing
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools:
- Tow bar: Connects the Jeep to your RV or towing vehicle.
- Base plate kit: Attaches to your Jeep’s frame for secure towing.
- Safety cables: Provide backup if the tow bar fails.
- Wiring harness: Syncs your Jeep’s lights with the towing vehicle.
- Brake system: A supplemental braking system is required in many states.
Here’s a quick comparison of tow bar types:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Non-binding tow bars | Affordable, easy to use | Can be tricky to disconnect |
| Self-aligning tow bars | Quick setup, less manual work | More expensive |
Preparing Your 2020 Jeep Gladiator
To avoid damage, preparation is crucial. Follow these steps:
- Check the owner’s manual for flat tow guidelines.
- Inspect tire pressure and fluid levels.
- Install the base plate kit according to manufacturer instructions.
- Mount the tow bar and connect it securely.
- Hook up safety cables and wiring harness.
- Set up the brake system as required.
Many beginners forget to check tire pressure before towing, which can lead to uneven wear or even accidents. It’s also important to use the correct wiring harness to prevent electrical issues.
Setting The Transfer Case And Transmission
One of the most important steps is getting your Jeep’s drivetrain ready. The Gladiator’s transfer case allows safe flat towing.
Follow these steps:
- Start the Jeep and keep your foot on the brake.
- Shift the transmission to Neutral (N).
- Set the transfer case to Neutral (N) as well. This disconnects the wheels from the drivetrain.
- Turn off the engine and release the brake.
- Confirm the Jeep rolls freely without resistance.
Do not skip setting both the transmission and transfer case to neutral. Failing to do so can cause severe transmission damage, which is expensive to fix.
Connecting And Testing The Tow Setup
After preparing your Jeep, connect everything:
- Attach the tow bar to the RV or towing vehicle.
- Secure the safety cables.
- Connect the wiring harness to ensure brake and turn signals work.
- Test all lights and brakes before hitting the road.
Here’s a comparison of common brake systems:
| Brake System | Setup Time | Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| Portable | 10-20 minutes | Good |
| Permanent | 1-2 hours (initial) | Excellent |
Safety Checks Before Towing
Before you start your journey, run through these safety steps:
- Double-check all connections.
- Ensure lights and brakes work.
- Verify both transmission and transfer case are in neutral.
- Check tire pressure and look for leaks.
- Review state laws for brake system requirements.
Many people overlook state law differences. For example, some states require supplemental brakes for any towed vehicle over a certain weight, so check local regulations.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Flat towing mistakes can lead to costly repairs. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Forgetting to set the transfer case to neutral.
- Using the wrong wiring harness.
- Ignoring tire pressure checks.
- Not installing a brake system when required.
- Leaving the steering wheel locked (should be unlocked for towing).
A non-obvious tip: Some owners forget to unlock the steering wheel. For the Gladiator, insert the key and turn it to the first position so the wheel stays unlocked.
Practical Tips For Smooth Towing
- Plan your route to avoid sharp turns or steep hills.
- Stop often to check connections and tire conditions.
- Drive slower than usual—most experts recommend under 65 mph.
- Practice connecting and disconnecting at home before your trip.
It’s wise to keep a checklist handy and review it before every journey. Even experienced RV drivers sometimes miss a step.
Data: Gladiator Flat Towing Numbers
Here are the key stats for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator:
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Weight | 4,650 lbs (approx.) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 7,650 lbs |
| Brake System Required | Yes (in most states) |
Final Thoughts
Flat towing your 2020 Jeep Gladiator is straightforward once you know the steps. With the right equipment, careful setup, and regular safety checks, you’ll enjoy a stress-free journey. Remember, small mistakes—like skipping the transfer case neutral step—can lead to big problems. Taking time to prepare pays off. For official details and updates, always check the Jeep official site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Flat Tow A 2020 Jeep Gladiator With An Automatic Transmission?
Yes, but both the transmission and transfer case must be set to neutral. Always follow the Jeep owner’s manual for exact steps.
Do I Need A Supplemental Braking System?
Most states require a brake system for towed vehicles over a certain weight. The Gladiator’s weight means a supplemental system is usually needed.
How Fast Can I Flat Tow My Gladiator?
Experts recommend keeping speeds under 65 mph for safety and to reduce wear.
Will Flat Towing Void My Warranty?
Flat towing according to Jeep’s instructions does not void the warranty. However, improper setup can cause damage and affect coverage.
What Happens If I Forget To Set The Transfer Case To Neutral?
If you skip this step, you risk major transmission damage. Always double-check before towing.
