4 wheel towing

[jwight]

Fake answer: it is not approved for towing with all four wheels up!

Real answer: I don't know.

Guess: probably so. Would be ideal for towing behind an RV. Get 12 mpg until you get to the RV site, then 40 mpg running around town. Average?

[Old smart]

There was some information posted a few months ago about flat-towing a smart, the restraints being =/< 50 miles @ =/< 50 MPH. But I have a strong feeling that was 450 info with its 6-speed transmission. The 451 (different, 5-speed xmission) could be different.

[Old smart]

I posted an inquiry to the Uk (who have now have 451 smarts) about four-on-the-ground towing. The question was: "I assume that all new 451 smart owners are provided with an owner's operating manual. What does the manual say about flat-towing (four-on-the-ground), e.g. behind an RV?"

The first response (from a seemingly credible source) was: "It's almost certainly the same as the original, 30 miles max @ 30mph max - in neutral!
If you rear lift, then you can go as far as you dare!"

Dat's what I've got so far.

[Old smart]

"Evilution" himself just checked-in: "Just checked the manual and Rich is spot on." Rich provided the just prior input.

[JKPSR]

I remember that several years ago, the Honda Accord was the most popular car to be towed behind a motorhome, even though the owner's manual specifically advised against it. Later Honda brought out the CRV which was not only approved for towing, but only came with an automatic transmission and 4 wheel drive. I expect this had a whole lot to do with its popularity. Also, Saturn made a point of making all their cars approved for towing. I believe this has resulted in Saturn becoming the most popular towed car brand. Smart should take a lesson from this!

[Old smart]

I have to believe that the flat-towing specification in the UK manual is aimed at repair towing only. It is a "city" car, and is not intended to be a long distance pacer, so they may not (or may not wish to) consider long, fast tows behind a RV. Once the 451s arrive here with their U.S./N.A. manuals, the specification may be different. Or, with a disclaimer regarding long, high-speed tows.

[Fredvon4]

I am having a very hard time understanding how the manual trany would have any limit on use in neutral.

Some how I just doubt there is any oil pump required for normal lubrication in the manual gear box final drive assy...but I freely admit I have never seen an exploded view of this type transmission

If in fact this trany is a real manual with typical splash/bath lubrication then I am certain that flat 4 down towing at any distance or speed will not have any adverse effect on the transmission


Perhaps the Brits or the manuals are confused or not clear... remember they did have a REAL automatic option over there

[Old smart]

Something I just thought of: the smart (with its SAAB-like ignition lock back between the seats) may not have a locking steering column to keep the front wheels from wandering. Don't know how much front-end caster the smart may have.

[Alan_Hepburn]

I don't recall where I saw it, but I recall seeing something about a tow bar being available shortly after introduction as optional equipment for the specific purpose of towing behind a motorhome - that's a question I'm waiting to ask a dealer...

[Old smart]

smartManiacs (who have 451 experience now) indicated that the smart does NOT have a steering column lock, and if the smart is towed from the rear with the front wheels on the ground the steering wheel has to be secured: "If you rear lift then you should at least tie the steering to stop it wandering."

This doesn't answer the original inquiry about flat-towing with all four on the ground behind a RV, but it is some info.