Posted by Winget on November 09, 1999 at 10:25:14:
In Reply to: Tow bars and PW's? posted by Tim on November 07, 1999 at 02:13:33:
Having broken a Tow Bar after towing from Kansas to Ga. here's some lessons that have worked
(Short of hauling it on a trailer with a larger vehicle, which is best...)
Ensure Top grade attachment bolts are used to mount to the bumper/(frame extensions work best as there are two holes that you can drop the bolts through and tow it with, but you have to take the bumper off first)
Safety cahins tough enough to "YANK" a runaway are essential, don't skimp.
Over inflate (or I better state "MAX infalate") the front towed vehicle tires and use high crowned bald ones if possible (less turning resistance around corners) (And yes, I mean a good soft rubber, not a dry rotted set, with good tubes and not beyond the specs of safety, etc...)
NO LOAD IN THE TOWED VEHICLE (if possible reduce weight by placing items in the towing vehicle)
pop the rear axle shafts and place a rag in the holes.
Pop the front spline shaft covers and fabricate a cardboard/plastic cover to cover the bearings. (less rolling resistance)
Make a set of lights on a board that can mount on the rear of the towed vehicle (out of a boat trailer light kit)
Take it easy around curves
Try to not get near a rush hour zone in a city.
Plan extra stopping distance.
If possible have someone drive in front to help clear traffic that would slam on their brakes in front of you (You can also pay for their car verses the idiots insurance company when you run into them.
EXPECT NO RESPECT! live it, they will not care if they cut you off, it's not their problem, expect every SOB to try to stop in front of you ON PURPOSE! just to play with you.
Expect gawkers to ride right beside the towed load..... for 50 miles.....
Towing truck MUST have excellent brakes, and be HEAVIER than the load or it will be SHOVED out of the way in a panic stop.
Consider a truck with duals (or add them for the trip) and maybe it's time to replace the pads in your truck now anyway, check your brakes...
If your lucky (in the extreme) only a dozen other things will happen to you following the above list.
Regards WAW