Tow setup on 03 Diplomat

Richard Wold · 10-16-2010, 09:25 AM

Wife and I getting ready to leave Texas for South Carolina. We want to take our Weber Genesis grill with us. I have a hitch carrier rated for 500lbs. that will hold the 100lb. grill. My concern is the tow setup for our 09 Escape.

I added a dual hitch unit and a 12" extender to allow the drawbar to sit at the correct length. Safety cables, light hookup and air line for towed brakes are long enough. I am a bit concerned about the overall length as it is a long way to the rear wheels of the motorhome. Worried about dips or driveways dragging the drawbar.

Does anyone see any obvious issues with this setup?

WeBeGone2 · 10-16-2010, 10:14 AM

I have a similiar set up on mine. I carry a small M/C. Have the same double hitch, PLUS I needed a 6 inch drop to keep the angle correct for the toad. (PT Cruiser). Look at the instructions for Blue Ox as to max deflection allowed. Do I scrape? Yep... I have dug some really nice grooves in the asphalt. Really need to watch ALL entrances and exits. I have found that if you can take them at an angle you will not scrape as often. Lots of fuel stations are off limits for me.

Barlow46 · 10-16-2010, 10:31 AM

Is their any way to put the hitch carrier on the 09 escape? I put a 2" receiver hitch on my crv and use the hitch carrier behind my tow vehicle when I need it. I think I might be concerned about parts coming off of the weber and hitting the tow vehicle unless you box it up or cover it so that nothing can fly off.

hardy1000 · 10-16-2010, 11:22 AM

My kinda buddy... one that carries a real grill with him and makes proviosions to do it. Love that BBQ. I use to carry a motorcycle with an extension on my last MH and it definatly use to drag sometimes. Like webegone says take entrances and exits at angles when possible.

jeepsrule · 10-17-2010, 06:15 AM

I was looking for a dual hitch receiver like you have to carry a bike and the problem I found was most were not rated for towing more than 3500 lbs. My vehicle weighs more than that so it was a no go for me. Were did you buy the dual hitch receiver and what brand is it?