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Gotta_P · 01-30-2011, 08:32 AM

I have the opportunity of picking up a 1998 Chevy S-10, 4 cyl, 5 speed manual transmission and need to know if it can be towed 4 down? The owners manual shows a picture of one behind an RV, but the manual is very vague and never out rights state you can tow the manual transmission S-10 without modification. The truck is in decent condition, has 92K mile, runs great and I can get it for about $1500, but if it's going to take another $1500 in base plates, drive shaft disconnect's, transmission lubricators, etc, I may pass and wait on a Ford Ranger that is listed as being towable in most Dingy Guides. The S-10 is not listed, but then again, I see a lot of cars being towed that aren't listed, so was just wondering if others have successfully towed an S-10, and if it need nay modification, what is needed?

walt2137 · 01-30-2011, 09:36 AM

Paul I have not towed a S 10 but have seen the 5 speed towed 4 down, if you decide to tow it be sure to check out hitch trader.com there was a Baseplate on there for a 98 S-10 for $100

Walt

Gotta_P · 01-30-2011, 04:57 PM

Walt,

Thanks, do you know if they had any modifications done to the truck, like the drive shaft disconnect? You have a link to the base plate? Was it Blue Ox? I already have the Blue Ox tow bar, so I need a blue ox base plate.

walt2137 · 01-30-2011, 05:20 PM

Paul it's a roadmaster base plate but it will work you just have to buy new tabs for the end of the tow bar. I have used a driveshaft disconnect and didn't like it, you will have to give it a lot of attention as road scum mucks up the works, I think I would rather idle the engine while towing.

Gotta_P · 01-30-2011, 06:04 PM

Thanks... I did a search of Drive Shaft Disconnects and found a company called Remco who makes one, but it costs $750, and that doesn't include installation! The truck I'm looking at will only cost me $1500, I can't see paying 50% of the cost of the truck to make it towable! I may pass and keep my eye out of a late model Ranger, at least they are listed as being towable in the Dingy Guides.

gg · 01-30-2011, 06:42 PM

My 2 cents

1. Manual shifter in neutral -

2. remove fuse for IP so not to drain batt

3. turn key to {off lock} position so steering wheel can move

4. release park brake

5. no remco needed

good luck

Gotta_P · 02-01-2011, 05:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gg

My 2 cents

1. Manual shifter in neutral -

2. remove fuse for IP so not to drain batt

3. turn key to {off lock} position so steering wheel can move

4. release park brake

5. no remco needed

good luck

I'll probably need luck when the tranny goes out! I notice in your signature you have the Remco prop Shaft, yet you recommend I just go for it? I realize the truck I'm looking at is not that expensive, but it's still money down the drain if the transmission craps out because it's not intended to be towed.

gg · 02-02-2011, 02:01 PM

I have a 4 speed auto trans, with the disconnect I place the Trans shifter in Park!

You indicated you have a 5 speed manual trans. So you place your foot on the clutch, shift into neutral and go. Proof test by pushing the s10 to see if it rolls.

If the s10 has 4 wheel drive, place the transfer case into the neutral also.

I have seen a lot of s10 pickup, and blazers with manual trans in tow because they are found to be a bargain.

bachler · 02-02-2011, 08:06 PM

We Towed a blaxer 4X4 , We towed a 5 speed S 10; Just hook up on the manual put the ignition On accs. mod , Trans in nuteral. and go, If you start it when you stop . I do not pull the fuse; Altho the guide reccomends it;