Can I tow an AWD Automatic Subaru Forester on a dolly if I remove the rear drive shaft?
(2010-05-29 16:44:30) 1. Says: I want to tow an AWD Subaru Forester on a dolly and know that I have to remove the rear drive shaft, but I was wondering if that would still be a problem or if anything would happen. Also, do the rear wheels lock up if I do this?2. Says: If the car/truck is Automatic you can only tow it on those wheels that are free wheeling / NOT connected to the engine in any way.If the car is all wheel drive and automatic you should not tow it. But as you said if you remove the rear drive shaft you can tow it, thus making the car roll on it's rear wheels and the opposite if you remove the front drive system.
The thing with towing a car on its driving wheels with automatic transmission is that the cooling pump for the transition is not on unless the engine is on but means that the transmission has to be on "Drive" which you don't do when towing car, or you'll damage the engine. So the transmission oil will over heat and destroy the transmission.
You can tow it maybe 2 miles but any further and you can do damage.
BTW. If all wheels are on dollies then it's O.K.
Joe.3. Says: You need to consult your owner manual and the service department for the correct answer.4. Says: I don't see why not. Just make sure you don't leave the parking brake on while towing and be careful the car doesnt possibly roll away with the rear drive shaft out because I'm not sure if parking gear is mechanically connected to the front wheels. I mention those two things because i've seen them happen before. lol.5. Says: First off all AWD Subarus have a switch under the hood that turnes off the AWD System and makes it a FWD vehicle.6. Says: You need to look in your owners manual. You CANNOT REMOVE THE REAR DRIVESHAFT!!!!!!!!!!
For one thing, one end is splined to the tranny on most models. If you remove the driveshaft, not only are you exposing the inside of tranny to wet weather & dust but also causing some tranny fluid to leak out especially when you lift up the front on the dolley.
So if you want to replace your transmission at the place you tow it, good luck.
Contact SOA if you do not have your owners manual, I would go through the source rather than leave it up to these people to judge whether or not your going to replace the transmission or not. Tag: Can I tow an AWD Automatic Subaru Forester on a dolly if I remove the rear drive shaft?