Three Things You Should Know Before You Need That First Tow
Posted on: 4 August 2016
As a new car owner, needing that first tow can be nerve-wracking. Having access to a vehicle you can tow it with is great, but you still need to decide on the way that you're going to tow it. With so many different towing trailers and options, how do you know which one is the right option? It's in your best interest to understand some towing fundamentals before you ever find yourself in need of the service, because that way you know what to look for. For example, if you have a car with an automatic transmission, here are some tips to choose the right tow method.
Rear-wheel drive cars with an automatic transmission should be towed using a tow bar. Before you tow it, you'll have to disconnect the rear drive shaft, though. Just remove the bolts securing the universal joint of the drive shaft to the rear axle with a wrench. Lower the drive shaft and put the bolts back in place so that you don't lose them. Then, pull the drive shaft toward the rear of the car to remove it. That way, you don't bind up the rear axle while you're towing.
Front and all-wheel drive vehicles need to be moved using a tow dolly. You attach the tow dolly to the tow hitch of the towing vehicle. Once it's secure, drive the car you're towing onto the dolly. Make sure it's straight, then secure it with the chains on the dolly. The chains go around the front tires to hold it in place. This will leave the rear tires on the ground, so disconnect the rear drive shaft if it's an all-wheel drive car. Use the same steps as you would if your car was rear-wheel drive.
Put safety first. No matter which method you choose, make sure that the trailer lights or the lights of the towed car are functioning correctly. If you have a tow dolly, the wiring harness of the dolly will connect to the car you're towing with so that there are lights on the trailer. If you're opting for a tow bar, make sure you add some accessory lights to the towed car so that it's clear that it's under tow.
The information here will help you to choose the right type of trailer to tow your car, but that doesn't mean that you have to do it on your own. If you're not comfortable towing the car or you don't have access to a second vehicle to tow with, talk with a local towing company like Exit 48-24 Hour Repair for help.
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