What will I need to flat tow?

[croberts]

I am looking to purchase the 'right' equipment to tow a Toad. I have a Winnebago Sightseer 35J. What would be recommended to get for tow bars (Roadmaster vs Blue Ox) do I need a braking system? Anythign else to consider?

Thanks.

[BookIIRoadtrash]

I have a Demco Aluminator and like it, but Demco and Winnebago are both based out of Iowa....Book2

[osomanytoys]

is there anything to watch out for when buying a brake buddy system? we were thinking about buying a used one and are not sure if there would be any problems compared to getting a new one. just want a little info on that if anyone has experience.. thanks
cheryl

[FLYTYER]

Quote:

Originally posted by croberts: I am looking to purchase the 'right' equipment to tow a Toad. I have a Winnebago Sightseer 35J. What would be recommended to get for tow bars (Roadmaster vs Blue Ox) do I need a braking system? Anythign else to consider? Thanks.

The system will depend on what you going to tow. The tow bar equipment will have to be matched to the "toad".

I would go to a good RV dealer to get a system installed. It will be expensive no matter which way you go, so have a pro install it.

As for braking, seriously consider a supplemental system. I use a Brake Buddy and like it.

[FLYTYER]

Quote:

Originally posted by osomanytoys: is there anything to watch out for when buying a brake buddy system? we were thinking about buying a used one and are not sure if there would be any problems compared to getting a new one. just want a little info on that if anyone has experience.. thanks cheryl

Be a little careful with used Brake Buddy systems. About 6 or 7 years ago there was a problem with their break-away switch that would short out in rain storms and lock the "Toad's" brakes. They corrected the problem and had a recall...check with Brake Buddy to find out which serial numbers were involved.

I have had mine for 10 years and would not be without it when I am towing...it has been trouble free and it works really well.

[osomanytoys]

thanks..

[bdpreece]

I have towed for several years using a Roadmaster Stowmaster tow bar with good results. As far a using an aux brake system it is always a good idea. However I towed for years with no aux brake system but only towed light cars aprox 3K pounds. Recently I purchased a 08 Explorer weighing in at about 5K and had the brake system installed yesterday. I researched many brake systems and chose to go with a SMI product. Not only do they have great products but they are sponsors on IRV2.

[GaryKD]

Hi croberts,
The toad braking system is a must have component of towing. Read this for more information. When making your component decisions, make sure you are not exceeding the CGVWR (total coach & toad). That being complete, all the brands of towing components work. It comes down to personal preference and cost. Consider going to the dealers that carry the brands you are interested in. Have them demonstrate how their device(s) work. This is the important part, you try to do what the sales person just demonstrated. When you are okay with the task that must be done, then that brand should be on your short list.

[soonerdave]

I sincerely agree with what GaryKD has said. Nobody makes a "bad" system and stays in business long, the liability would get them very quickly. If you have a local dealer you have been doing business with and like them then by all means look at what they are selling. Brake Buddy, Roadmaster and Blue Ox all excellent products. Personally I use the Blue Ox system and Brake Buddy Vantage Select and am very happy with they way they work. Good luck with your decision and Happy RVing.

[croberts]

Any feedback positive or negative on the Remco towbars? The website says they are made by Blue Ox and are the saem as the Aventa LX and Aventa II only a differnt color and different decals. Is this true?

Thanks.

[Joe and Pam]

Yes they are the same. Remco is out of business Could be a warranty issue some day. Someone bought them but not sure about the Tow bars.

[FLYTYER]

The vehicle you plan to flat tow must be able to be flat towed.

Some vehicles cannot be flat towed, while others can, they may require some modifications, fuse pulling, transmission in neutral,etc. Also some vehicles have a limit on miles towed without starting the engine and shifting the transmission. Likewise some vehicles also have a max speed when towed.

Do your research thoroughly.

[GaryKD]

Per the Remco web site SuperFlow Technologies Group purchased Remco's driveshaft coupling product line and Aquatec Water Systems Inc. They also purchased the Remco brand name. The tow bar and base plate web pages only say they are under construction and will be updated shortly.