Can You Tow with An Auto?

Discussion in 'General Motoring' started by Scuttler, May 8, 2006.

  1. Scuttler

    Scuttler Guest

    Hi Guys

    I know it sounds a silly question but is an Auto Vectra suitable for towing?
    At present I have a manual Vectra which I use to tow various sized cars
    with.
    I have now been offered a low mileage cheap Vectra the thing is its an
    automatic.

    My question is would an automatic be a suitable car to tow with or is a
    manual better?
     
    Scuttler, May 8, 2006
    #1

  2. Why not ask a Vauxhall dealer?
    I think I've seen it recommended that a 2nd. oil cooler and/or fan is fitted
    when adapting for the towing role. Could stop it being "cheap".
    (My old Safrane auto, without anything in tow and just me aboard, couldn't
    climb (long) hills in Wales without the overheat warning appearing. Bit
    scary when the lane's too narrow to turn round in.)
     
    Malcolm Stewart, May 9, 2006
    #2
  3. Scuttler

    adder1969 Guest


    You need to make sure you're in the right gear so that the torque
    converter locks up. Towing puts strain on the box when pulling away
    etc when the converter is slipping. If the vectra is cheap enough then
    give it a go. A lot depends on what you're towing of course!
     
    adder1969, May 9, 2006
    #3
  4. Scuttler

    Scuttler Guest

    Thanks everyone for the advice I think I will stay with the manual to tow
    with as it seems the better option.
     
    Scuttler, May 9, 2006
    #4
  5. Scuttler

    Martin Guest

    It really depends what you want to tow. An Army Tank, then NO. If its
    within the designed towing weights then yes Why not

    Cheers

    Martin
     
    Martin, May 10, 2006
    #5
  6. Scuttler

    Mike Guest


    You will need to add some fluid to the auto box. consult the owners book for
    details.

    Mike
     
    Mike, May 10, 2006
    #6
  7. If it is of any use to you, I have usedan automatic 4x4 to tow with a few
    times in the past. Just put the tow rope on and away you go. No changing
    to 4x4, low range or anything non standard with the gear box. But the
    engine wasa 3.2 diesel, which migh make a difference. Just my tuppence
    worth :)
     
    Simon Finnigan, May 12, 2006
    #7
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