Front wheel drive towing

or more specifically pulling a boat up a ramp. I have a 13’ whaler and have been pulling it with my explorer but am considering getting rid of the gas hog and taking over my wifes escape. The escape is front wheel drive, 4 ltr v6, has plenty of power but its 2 wheel drive. I dont expect to have any issues pulling the boat around but I’m wondering about pulling it up a ramp. Anyone have any experience using a front wheel drive for this? I dont want to be “that guy” at the ramp that just spins and cant get out of everyones way . . .

I appreciate the input

Never done it, but it should be fine. You have all that weight from the engine right over the drive wheels which should help, unless its a really slimy ramp.

Pulled 17-18’ bow riders with my parent’s minivans (front wheel drive) through high school and college, no problem. Vehicles were rated for the weight. Front wheel only did just fine. I think you’ll pull a 13’ whaler without knowing it is there.


17’ Henry O Hornet
26’ Palmer Scott

you will have no prob with towing the 13 ft whaler, just do not have super heavy tongue weight as it takes weight off the front tires on the escape

Pull the 17" Flats boat with the wifes car sometimes, works just fine …

Bragging may not bring happiness,
but no man having caught a large fish,
goes home through the alley.
-Anonymous

Thanks everyone, I appreciate it