2011 4.0, 2WD, automatic flat tow query.

[Foxtrot-Romeo]

I want to flat tow my Ranger. Several options are available. But one stand out and need some guidance from those “who know”. For base info, I am competent with tools and rebuilt engines and rear ends but no transmission work as I have always thought this was for more intelligent folks to sort out.

1. Manually disconnecting the driveshaft each time is certainly the most airtight no fail solution to prevent drivetrain damage. However, less appealing if you are on a long trip where this process has to be done frequently. Still though only four bolts but not great to do in the freezing cold or pouring rain Where we find ourselves sometimes.

2. Driveshaft disconnect. Reviews are great to less than great in that it works as designed but driveshaft vibration has been reported as an issue by some. Driveshaft vibrating (my opinion only) should not even be a possible issue if the kit is installed correctly and shaft balanced correctly. It could simply be down to the mechanic tolerances required to make this setup function in all situations. I like this the least as the installed hardware looks likes my childhood erector set, no offense to the designers as this is a tall order to make this product work at all times and situations no matter the cold, heat, dirt, sand etc.

3. This is where I’m leaning long term. Install the 4WD transmission with either the manually shift t-case or use the electronic shifted version with the manual conversion (This seem best as there are a lot of the 1354 cases installed) I know there have been comments on the neutral tow switch or kit but these sound as rare as hens teeth in the wild. And, with my truck built as a 2WD I’m hesitant to attempt to make the jump to make it function correctly unless it is plugs directly into the existing harness. This may be easy but I’m just not sure. And in my previous experience (old person speak which I am) I like the feel of knowing I am in neutral with a manual shifter. Sorta like when I shift a manual trans into neutral and I move the lever about to ensure I’m in neutral before releasing the clutch.

Okay, with that said, can I simply obtain a transfer case and driveshaft from a same wheel base Ranger from pick and pull, remove the trans tail shaft section and install the t-case? And then the new driveshaft? What are the ins and outs I should consider and parts I must have from the donor vehicle?

 

[rubydist]

How often are you planning to do this towing? If not often, then just disconnect the driveshaft.

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

If you’re not towing often, I’d just disconnect the driveshaft.

If you’re gonna tow it often, I’d either consider a trailer, or you are going to have to get a 4x4 transmission and manual transfer case. You can’t just pull the tail shaft and bolt in a t-case. The transmission for the 4x4 is different to my understanding. Use the rear driveshaft from a same wheelbase 4x4 Ranger. The thing for switching an electric transfer case manually has been out of production for awhile and you have to get under the vehicle to shift it.

 

[Foxtrot-Romeo]

rubydist thank for answering. Towing answer; based on last year, a lot, we were on the road for 12 weeks so id figure 16 times I’d have to do the disconnect and 16 reconnects (32 times under the truck). We had a manual trans Ranger that we used for flat towing (just put in neutral and go). It has aged out and I needed an automatic due to past knee left knee injury issues and I wanted a Ranger and could not pass on one I bought. Initially I’ll do as you suggest and disconnect/reconnect until I do a permanent modification.

lil_Blue_Ford, thank you for answering. I’ve towed with trailers and dollys. Neither is a great solution for me. The added weight of a full on four wheel trailer makes it heavy and saps fuel economy. And the one issue I’ve struggled with most is where do you temporarily store it when you arrive at different destinations. In 2015 we went to flat towing and never looked back.

If the t-case won’t swap to my trans the only way to do it is to buy 4WD auto and matching (wheel base wise) driveshaft. I’ve had no success finding a manual shift t-case so I’d have to add the $$$ shifter from Behemoth I’ve seen on their website.

Much appreciation to each of you for helping me. Cheers. This is how we got around last year. No kayak, it was still snowing in the Grand Tetons!