Community Forums

cmjretired · 08-08-2016, 05:35 PM

I have been desperately trying to get information on what I need to do to tow my 2004 F-150 Lariat 4x4 Auto with Dash switch for 2HI 4HI and 4Low , Everyone wants to be generic. I need to be specific to my vehicle. I have been to the Ford dealer, all they want is money just to talk to you, No help! Or they just say "can't be done" first off. I have seen posts for a Neutral switch but can't find one for my vehicle, Just too many posts to list but none of them are for my specific year and model. Some say I have to get a Driveshaft Disconnect, Some say it won't work.
Needless to say I'm getting frustrated. Does anyone really know what I can do?
Can anyone help?
I want to get on the road and am stuck here cuz I can't tow!
HELP!!!

MtnTrek · 08-08-2016, 07:18 PM

Welcome,

FWIW:
Downloadable Dinghy Guides | MotorHome Magazine
vehicles listed by yr. model.

Good luck.

Mich F · 08-08-2016, 07:31 PM

It looks like Remco says you need a drive shaft dis-connect. Store : Remco

Swerwin · 08-08-2016, 08:14 PM

I was told that my 2004 F150 had no neutral in transfer case and will need a driveshaft disconnect. However, the front hubs don't go into neutral unless the engine is running. I don't know if it is a vacuum or electrical issue. Ended up trading for a newer truck. With Blue Ox 10000 lb towbar and AF ONE braking system, it has been a very good, easy to manage toad

MSHappyCampers · 08-09-2016, 08:40 AM

Hi !

Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined the gang!

Sorry I can't answer your questions!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

DAJO · 08-09-2016, 08:46 AM

Ford didn't have a neutral tow option until something like 2012 on the F150. Rangers and Sport Trac did have it before then. You will need a much more complicated and expensive solution to tow your F150 with automatic transmission such as drive shaft disconnect.

cmjretired · 08-10-2016, 06:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cmjretired

I have been desperately trying to get information on what I need to do to tow my 2004 F-150 Lariat 4x4 Auto with Dash switch for 2HI 4HI and 4Low , Everyone wants to be generic. I need to be specific to my vehicle. I have been to the Ford dealer, all they want is money just to talk to you, No help! Or they just say "can't be done" first off. I have seen posts for a Neutral switch but can't find one for my vehicle, Just too many posts to list but none of them are for my specific year and model. Some say I have to get a Driveshaft Disconnect, Some say it won't work.
Needless to say I'm getting frustrated. Does anyone really know what I can do?
Can anyone help?
I want to get on the road and am stuck here cuz I can't tow!
HELP!!!

Thanks for your replies.
I went to another Ford and talked to a Service Manager and a mechanic yesterday. Basically I'm out of luck, even if I install a disconnect I would still have to get a Tow Dolly. They said that the front hubs are vacuum operated and I would have to leave the engine running while towing to keep them unlocked to prevent the transfer case from turning thus turning the transmission and burning it up.
Just another example of Murphy following me everywhere I go! ��

FIRE UP · 08-12-2016, 11:21 PM

cmjretired,
I just got to this thread or you would have had your correct answer a while ago. For years, GMC, Chevy and Dodge have authorized it's 1/2 ton 4x4 automatic fleet, to be flat towed, without issue. But, Ford, in it's infinite wisdom, was CLUELESS and all the way up to 2011, DID NOT authorize any of it's F-150 or, (basic half ton) 4x4 fleet to be flat towed. It was in 2012 that someone in Ford, decided: "Hey, the other three are doing it, why don't we?"

So, in 2012, Ford changed its programming in its electronic shift transfer case system, to provide for NEUTRAL. And, by following a few dozen steps (a bit of exaggeration there) you could now put it into Neutral and flat tow it.

But, basically, on your '04 you're out of luck. Now, it's a 4x4 so, if you disconnect one drive shaft, you MAY have to disconnect both of them. I'm not familiar with Ford drive trains and input and such on there transfer cases. I suspect you don't have front "manual" hubs (the kind you used to have to get out and turn in or out for four wheel drive axle locking) which means your front drive shaft may be turning all the time that truck is moving. That means it will be turning things in that transfer case that may be non-lubed while motoring down the road, not sure.

Scott