Date:         Tue, 20 Feb 2018 15:11:07 +0000
Reply-To:     Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Towing and Rock Damage
Comments: To: "Michael A. Radtke" <wa7zpu@5BY9.NET>
In-Reply-To:  <20180219230417.9ed1ab71be3c5f4c9649069e@5by9.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="Windows-1252"

How “tiny” a car tat can fit on a 4 X 8 trailer? Sounds like a golf cart and I used a 5 X 9 when I towed on of those. Using a u-haul open 5 X 9 protects the front and sides. However that is 1,200 pounds just for the trailer.

Car covers on open trailers tend to do more harm than good. The constant wind whipping abrades and damages the paint and bad weather will get the dirt between the cover and paint further increasing damage. A bra across the front maybe the best compromise.

Towing with a Vanagon usually works surprisingly well. Weight is an issue for stopping and hills. Wind resistance will be the speed limiter especially with an automatic. If this is a long distance tow with an automatic rig up some type of ATF temp monitoring. Don’t be afraid to use 2nd gear.
 If a multi state tow check the laws for each state you plan to travel through. Some require trailers to have brakes with weight as low as 1,000 pounds. Places to get stopped and questioned include toll plazas. I have even been denied access to the New Jersey Turnpike.

Dennis


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From: Michael A. Radtke<mailto:wa7zpu@5BY9.NET>
Sent: Tuesday, February 20, 2018 1:04 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM<mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
Subject: Towing and Rock Damage

Hello,

I need to tow a tiny car on a 4x8 flat bed trailer behind my Vanagon.
I will keep below 55 mph and only tow in clear weather on paved roads.
Do I need to be concerned about rock damage to the towed car?  If so,
what can I do to minimize the possible damage?

Thanks,
Mike