Towing 2002 Beetle Automatic Diesel

« **on:** January 16, 2005, 02:24:25 PM »

Can anyone assist us in determining the best method of towing our Beetle behind a motorhome. Thanks

Russ · « **Reply #1 on:** January 16, 2005, 03:54:00 PM »

I've always heard you can't tow them facing backwards, or if you do stuff something in the tailpipe. Something about the reverse airflow going into the exhaust system.

vwherb · « **Reply #2 on:** January 16, 2005, 07:39:03 PM »

I would strongly suggest a tow dolly.

Anthony · « **Reply #3 on:** January 17, 2005, 06:46:32 AM »

The owner's manual doesn't specifically address flat-towing, but they do warn you to use a flatbed if you don't have a dolly to prevent automatic transmission damage. They also specify a 50MPH/50 mile limit for manuals, so sounds like no flat towing.

Ret.Bugtech · « **Reply #4 on:** January 19, 2005, 10:31:08 AM »

I don`t know if this applies to the new beetle or not, but I do know if you flat tow a FWD automatic Rabbit/Jetta/Golf you can kiss your transmission goodbye. These early automatics only had 1 ATF pump and they were driven by the engine only so there would be no ATF cirulation thus causing the tranny to run dry. I think most domestic trannys have 2 pumps, one driven by the engine and the other by the driveshaft/ axle. Even then I don`t think you were supposed to flat tow at any speed or distance. If you want to tow,I would "dolly" the front front wheels automatic or manual shift.

« **Reply #5 on:** February 01, 2005, 03:35:08 PM »

I would agree about a dolly. I did tow a 69 beetle with a 73, but this was an extreme (very extreme) emergency, and it was only 300 miles (without a blown engine, the 73 is a tough cookie). A flatbed or a dolly would be the safest way to tow your bug.

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Towing 2002 Beetle Automatic Diesel

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Towing 2002 Beetle Automatic Diesel

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Towing 2002 Beetle Automatic Diesel

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