Community Forums

jrpend · 07-15-2017, 05:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bwlowry615

I have just gotten a new set up to tow my 2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid with my 2006 Holiday Rambler Vacationer 34' Diesel Pusher.

Got Blue Ox Avail Tow Bar & baseplate. Installed SMI Duo for braking system.

My request is for any hints or guidance to any changes to driving the rig by itself versus rig plus toad. I think I am OK with the connecting & disconnecting the system.

The biggest thing in my mind is that you can't back up. (Well, you can, but....). When I first started towing my toad, I got myself into a couple of spots where the only way out was to back up.

Once it was a straight back and we did it by very carefully going straight back with a walker keeping an eye on the toad.

Other times we have had to disconnect. On my setup that probably 5 minutes.

You have to learn not to get yourself into those situations.

Good luck,
Jerald

ByeTheWay · 07-15-2017, 05:37 PM

I don't worry about saving a few bucks on fuel. My concern is how easy can I get in and out of the fuel station w/o an issue. Which means I often use truck stops.

On the tow bar, I put the pins in so they pull to the outside when removing. There is more clearance on the outside, which can save you knuckles. I also use the safety cables to support the electrical cord and the air hose. I double check that my toad is set properly; that is the transmission, transfer case and the brake, and that the steering wheel is unlocked.

Ron_H · 07-16-2017, 09:36 AM

1. Be sure to thoroughly read the flat tow instructions in the owner's manual and follow them precisely.

2. Check to ensure your toad's parking brake is disengaged.

3. Check your toad's brake and signal lights each time you connect.

4. Check to ensure your toad's parking brake is disengaged.

5. After connecting your tow and checking your lights, pull ahead very slowly to engage the lock pins in both tow bar arms.

6. Check to ensure your toad's parking brake is disengaged.

7. When unhooking, have your co-pilot turn the toad's steering wheel lock to lock to release any tension that may be binding the lock pins from easily pulling out.

8. Ensure that whoever did the baseplate install used red lock tight on all the bolts and that they attached the secondary safety cables (frame to baseplate) correctly. Though we had an established shop do our tow installation, they did neither of these and it almost resulted in a serious accident.