Towing Advice

[ScottsJourney]

Hello,
I am going to be towing a Honda CRV for the first time this weekend. Other than don't backup what advice, hints or tips do you have for me. Like I know when making a turn with just the MH I will wait until my hips are at the corner of the road before making my turn. I think I'd have to wait a little longer being I will now be 20 ft longer with the CRV. Thanks, for any help.
Scott

[H. Miller]

What toad braking system will you be using?

[hoppers4]

No need to extend the turn. The towed will track inside the MH tracks.

[njs42]

Are you aware of this?

This is the what my 04 CR-V requires---check your manual--or obtain a manual for your model if you do not have one, I'm not sure about other years-----

Make sure you are aware of the start up proceedure---this is mine in the 04. Start up run for a few minutes then pull shift lever through the gears P,R, N, D,1,2 then back up 2,1,D, N---stop. Never from reverse to neutral---I use this time to install my brake-pro while I idle a few more minutes then turn ignition to the position allowing steering to take place. Release your parking brake, of course. You can run for 8 hours , then do it again---that is total time not towing time. I seldom have run for 8 hours, I get queazy at about six and do it at a rest stop----not a bother to me.

My Honda manual says not to tow over 65 mph---I stick to that---

Tha actual towing is a snap she just follows back there very happy.

Some Honda techs have told me to change my trans fluid about twice the reccomended mileage---I do, but that is just personal--I'm really not sure it is necessary---my Honda dealer likes it---manual does not comment on it for towing.

Again---do not do as I do---check your manual. About thirty K towing and the transmission is still silky smooth.

[GaryKD]

Hi ScottsJourney,
If you'd like some help on when to turn consider:

1. You'll need 2 helpers (no not to turn, hang in there with me on this)
2. Have one helper stand with their feet at the center of the rear axle, close to the coach.
3. The second helper should be outside your driver's window with a couple of small dot type stickers.
4. Sitting in the driving position, have helper #2 position a dot on your outside mirror where helper #1's feet are on the mirror.
5. Repeat the procedure for the passenger outside mirror.

Now when the dot passes the curb (for a right hand turn) you know you can turn the coach as much as you need. This is also helpful when backing in a site knowing the rear axle has passed the point you determine would be the point you wanted to turn (pivot on).

[bachler]

In my 72 years I have had no problems. People put stickers/balls/wives/ You name it; In various places;; I say use that thing that holds your ears apart; You will have NO problem. You stated the most important thing. DO NOT BACK UP WITH A TOW ATTACHED;; life is good.

[Vegasdan]

You'll get the hang of it very quickly. Just remember you're 10 ft or so longer. One tip is to watch the toad in the rear view on the first corner you take after hooking up, make sure the front wheels of the toad are turning and not going straight.

[ScottsJourney]

Thanks for the tips! I'll find out for my self Friday morning.

[Cat320]

Quote:

Originally Posted by hoppers4 No need to extend the turn. The towed will track inside the MH tracks.

Agree...we pull a CRV, too...it follows the coach and does not cut corners.

[ScottsJourney]

Hello, We got back last night. The CRV towed without any problems. Yes it was earier than I thought. Not having ever done it I was nervous. Not anymore. I'm sure I'll come accross some tricky situcations but will take my time and handle accordinly.
Thanks again for the comments.