Community Forums

jeff357 · 04-17-2017, 04:10 PM

Properly towing Lexus Rx400h on ACME tow Dolly. To keep the steering free. Should I just leave it accessory mode? Or turn it to on then back to off & leave key in. Steering must stay unlocked & do not want to drain the battery.

2 wheel drive.

Scarab0088 · 04-17-2017, 05:03 PM

I'll submit that there are differences - even within model years. So, I tested our car.
*Test the steering lock by trying to turn the steering wheel either direction in attempts to engage the lock.

First...with the car running, shut down like you would normally (just like after loading the dolly):
With the engine off, key in the off position -and- left in the key hole, does the steering lock engage?
...if no, then leave it that way to tow.
...if yes, restart the car. Then shut-down -but- only turn the key to accessory and check the steering lock, does the steering lock engage?

...if no, then leave it that way to tow, and remove the negative battery lead to save the battery and test. Does the lock engage?
...if yes, contact the dealer for advice.

If the key must be in the accessory position with power on to unlock the steering, then you have to address battery draw. A small hot lead from the RV or solar charger are options.

Engine off, key removed - the steering should lock.

Best luck

jeff357 · 04-22-2017, 02:30 PM

Folks, trying to find the correct way to tow a 2008 rx400h on a tow dolly from ACME that is fixed axle & no moving tire plates like other dollies. Owners manual is no help. I have found if you leave the key in the ignition after turning it to accessory & back the wheel stays unlocked. This is what I need to to do for this type of dolly. I just want to make sure it stays in the unlocked position, but not drain the battery.

Ok folks, did a test run with it in ACC mode & with the key still in but turned off. Steering did not lock up & everything appeared ok except. Both times after restarting & taking it off the dolly the VSC light came on. After I drive it down the block it cleared both times.

Scarab0088 · 04-22-2017, 04:57 PM

Congrats on finding the cure. We use the same cure and do it with the valet key when towing (valet key has less lock access). We keep the regular key in the RV for when it is time to unload the car.

At any long stop when the car is not unloaded, we remove the valet key from the toad and lock the car doors - just to keep honest people honest - and put the valet key in a conspicuous spot by the RV's driver seat to prevent forgetting when we resume travel.

The VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) light is probably on because 2 tires were turning at a very different speed than the other 2. It should clear after driving a short distance.

We sometimes get an ABS (anti-lock brake system) light when coming off the dolly too - probably similar reason. It always clears after a short drive.

Safe EZE travels