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StevieG · 05-19-2013, 03:27 PM

Going to take our first trip with our Acme EZ tow dolly and am looking for someone that has towed a VW Passat on one. First question is, are there any issues in loading the Passat on the dolly as far as ground clearance and the ramps? Second question is, I have the option of securing the car with the straps or chains. Which do you use and if the chains, please let me know where you wrap them so as nota to damage anything. Thanks !

Scarab0088 · 05-19-2013, 04:13 PM

Steve,

I don't have a Passat, and I can't imagine any reason that it would be different than any other FWD sedan...just hook-up and go...but maybe someone here has more insight.

- BUT - DO NOT USE THE "CHAIN" Automatic Restraint System (ARS) that may have come from the Mfgt. They have discontinued it because it does not allow enough "pivot point" on the wheel tray during turns.
See "What Exactly is the ARS here: FAQs | Car Tow Dolly
The name "ARS" now describes the design of the web strap with a single front strap and slide mounted winch.

This should not be confused with the safety chains - those should always be used.

REASON: The front wheels of the toad must be able to pivot during turns. If the toad's wheels cannot pivot during turns the dolly wheels will scrub sideways plus tremendous side pressures will be created in the toad's front suspension during the turns.

If your Passat has steering lock, ensure it is unlocked during the tow.
See important notes here: How to Use a Tow Dolly, How a Car Tow Dolly Works & Other Car Tow Dolly Questions | Car Tow Dolly

Finally, the toad's wheels do not need to spin (toad can be left in park) but it doesn't hurt if you expect to be making very tight turns during the tow.

Best of luck and safe travels

BTW, I have over 10,000miles on my EzeTow, I bought it used, and I Love It! So simple and EZE to use.

StevieG · 05-19-2013, 04:36 PM

Hi Scarab, thanks for both links..., however after reading both, I am more confused than I was... Lol! The first link with the FAQ indicated that the chains were discontinued due to issues with car sensors and brake lines. In the second link, it instructs you on how to use the wheel straps or chains...

I think my best bet is to call the number on the link tomorrow to get a clearer understanding.

I was able to see that as long as I have 7" of bumper to ground clearance, it shouldn't be a problem, and that 14" from hitch to ground is an optimum height. Thanks again bud!

Scarab0088 · 05-19-2013, 07:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StevieG

Hi Scarab, thanks for both links..., however after reading both, I am more confused than I was... Lol! The first link with the FAQ indicated that the chains were discontinued due to issues with car sensors and brake lines. In the second link, it instructs you on how to use the wheel straps or chains...

I think my best bet is to call the number on the link tomorrow to get a clearer understanding.

I was able to see that as long as I have 7" of bumper to ground clearance, it shouldn't be a problem, and that 14" from hitch to ground is an optimum height. Thanks again bud!

It is smart to call them. I did for some questions, but I am not sure they will tell you the whole story about the issues with the chain ARS. There is several threads on iRV2 about the chain tie-down causing problems from cracks in the dolly frame to bent toad suspension parts.

About the 14" hitch height...I have an 8" drop hitch and the ball is still at about 18", just because the receiver is so high. I think that is typical for a Class A. The only option was to get a 12" drop hitch, but I felt that was way too much twisting leverage on the receiver. The Eze-Tow rides a little nose high, but that only helps to keep the toad from pushing forward on the dolly (breaking pressure being much more g-force than acceleration).

It rides fine, the surge brakes work well, and I have had no problems with this set-up.

Best of luck!