Community Forums

Mikeeg · 01-26-2008, 07:55 AM

I just took My first trip to Fla. since getting toad set up with Total Blue ox equip. I have the Advant II tow bar which was a dream to hook up by my self and towed great to Jax Fla. but when I tried to discount the passanger side releas would not let go so I had to pop the pins with a rubber mallet. When it was of the toad they worked fine. I guess there was to much pressure on them to release.I call Blue Ox and they said you have to be total level ground for them to release,has anyone out in RV land had this happen and do you have any tricks just in case there is not a flat area to unhook.I will be hooking back up in the am: for a short jump over to Anastasia State Park for three days then home to NJ.HELP !!

Mikeeg · 01-26-2008, 07:55 AM

I just took My first trip to Fla. since getting toad set up with Total Blue ox equip. I have the Advant II tow bar which was a dream to hook up by my self and towed great to Jax Fla. but when I tried to discount the passanger side releas would not let go so I had to pop the pins with a rubber mallet. When it was of the toad they worked fine. I guess there was to much pressure on them to release.I call Blue Ox and they said you have to be total level ground for them to release,has anyone out in RV land had this happen and do you have any tricks just in case there is not a flat area to unhook.I will be hooking back up in the am: for a short jump over to Anastasia State Park for three days then home to NJ.HELP !!

Route 66 · 01-26-2008, 09:24 AM

Mike, that is a very common problem and very easy to deal with.

It also occurs if the MH and toad are not in a straight line.

There are 3 ways to deal with it.

1. Start the toad and turn the steering wheel back and forth to relieve the tension on the tow bar.

2. Have someone press on the levers while driving the toad forward a few inches.

Sometimes just driving the toad forward to put some play in the couplings is enough. This usually works for me, and is my preferred method.

3. Carry some Velcro strips to wrap around the levers, holding them in the down position while you drive the toad forward a few inches. Also works well for me.

Gary RVRoamer · 01-26-2008, 03:33 PM

Often you can release the pressure on the pins simply by starting the toad engine and turning the steering wheel. Try it to one side and if that doesn't work, try the other way. Or wiggle it back and forth a coule times. The front end of the toad moves slightly as the wheels turn and that is often enough to relieve the pressure. Forward or backward pressure (put toad in gear) may be necessary if on a slight grade (but be careful - you aren't trying to drag the coach!).

Dsouthw524 · 02-01-2008, 02:19 AM

All of the above are great answers. Additionally, we carry a rubber hammer and have used it to apply persuasion.

Route 66 · 02-01-2008, 02:32 AM

You really should not need a hammer of any sort, as it's not difficult to relieve the tension.

doc · 02-01-2008, 07:12 AM

Hmmmmm???? Hammer, rubber or not, don't believe I want to be beating on the release levers on my Aventa. Ours may be a exception, but it is not a problem to unhook on uneven ground or on a slight grade. (it is not a good idea to cut the toad loose w/o setting the parking brake - been there done that!!)
If we ever get by the factory, we will have them check and rebuild whatever needs to be done

Mikeeg · 02-01-2008, 06:02 PM

I tapped out the pins on the bracket end not on the bar lock handle.That would not be good.Since then I have unhooked on level ground with no problems.

park_ridge_dave · 02-03-2008, 05:53 AM

Mike Good Luck with your Blue Ox gear. I use it too with a unified brake controller and set-up/unhook is a breeze. Dirk and the others have given excellent advice, but, I still keep the rubber mallet handy just in case!

Dave