Date: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 03:32:51 -0500
Reply-To: Budd Premack <bpremack@MN.RR.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Budd Premack <bpremack@MN.RR.COM>
Subject: Re: Any tow bar advice?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
The following assumes that you have either a four speed or a Syncro, either
of which can be towed with all 4 wheels on the ground. If you have an
automatic, either disconnect the two driveshafts or use a tow dolly.
If the tow bar mounts to the towed vehicle with brackets that are bolted,
use the following simple procedure. It has worked for me on about a dozen
vans that have been towed thousands of miles over the years.
If your tow bar has chains that are secured under the frame or around the
axle, you will have to get advice elsewhere.
Remove the chrome (or fiberglass) front bumper from the towed vehicle.
Underneath it you will find a real steel box frame bumper. Locate the tow
brackets as far apart as feasible. Drill appropriate sized holes vertically
through the bumper box frame (pilot hole first is easier). (My tow bar
brackets use 1/2 inch bolts for this purpose.) Obtain heavy duty steel
bolts, with spacer and lock washers. As an added precaution against
loosening, use 2 nuts per bolt. You can mount the tow bar brackets either
on top (preferred) or below the bumper bracket, depending upon the height of
your tow ball.
Attach the tow bar to the bumper brackets and hook up to the towing vehicle.
Secure the release lever with a padlock. (A nut and bolt will work, but can
loosen.) Use safety chains and trailer lights. Remember to turn the
ignition switch one click to unlock the steering wheel. (BTDT) Check the
tire pressures for both vehicles. Bring a spare tire and a jack for the
towed vehicle. (BTDT2) Keep your speed down, as it is easy to jacknife in a
panic stop. (Your main concern is stopping, not towing.)
If you have dutifully followed all of the above cautions, the tow wil be
safe and simple. If not, please post your adventures on the List the
following Friday.
Good luck.
Budd Premack
86 Syncro (and a host of others)
Land of Sky-Blue Waters
Minneapolis, MN
----- Original Message -----
> I recently bought a tow bar and plan on towing a Vanagon 60 miles down
> interstate five. Does anybody have any advice on this? My main concern
is
> where to mount the tow bar to the towed Vanagon (I will be towing with a
V6
> pick-up truck).
