subject: Tips For Safely Towing A Car [print this page] Hitting the open road for a vacation, a move or other endeavor does not always mean jumping in a car and going. Sometimes the car is just along for the ride, too. If you are getting ready to head out with your car in tow behind a RV or even a moving truck, there are things you need to know to enjoy a successful and safe trip.
To make sure the vehicle you are riding in, your car and you all arrive safely, it is important to follow these tips:
Understand the capacity you are dealing with - Moving trucks and RVs have a large tow capacity, but it is still a good idea to make sure your car does not exceed it. Find out the capacity of the vehicle you will be driving and the weight of the car you plan to tow. It is also wise to make sure the towing bar or cable that will be used has the capacity to handle the weight of your vehicle.
Be sure the towing bar or cable is properly installed - If you plan to install the tow package yourself, follow instructions carefully. Otherwise, hire a professional to make sure all parts and electrical cables are installed right and are truly ready for the road ahead.
Hook the car up according to towing bar instructions - Make sure to mount the towing bar to the car as per the instructions. Tow bars and basic cable systems do work a little differently so be sure you know how to hook up your car to the gear you have. You will also want to be certain the signaling and brake lights are operable and work in conjunction with the tow vehicle.
Put the car in neutral - When towing a vehicle behind a moving truck or RV, you want the car put into neutral. This takes the wear and tear off the vehicle and ensures that the wheels are not stuck in the locked position.
Be mindful of the new length - It is very easy to miscalculate the new length of the vehicle being driven when a car is in tow. It is also not uncommon for people to entirely forget that a car is being towed. Remind yourself constantly that you are towing a vehicle and that extra caution is required.
Double check all signals before pulling out - Make sure blinkers and brake lights are functioning properly before trying to leave. It is not a bad idea to recheck this from time to time while you are on the road.
Maintain proper distance - It is much harder to stop a vehicle when it is towing another car. Keep this in mind and do maintain a wide distance from other vehicles when on the road.
Drive slowly - A proper towing bar can enable running at the speed limit, but if you are using a cable take care. Driving above 45 miles per hour can put unnecessary strain on the cable. For long-distance hauls, it is better to get a tow bar installed.
Getting ready to hit the road with a car in tow requires a few precautions. Take the time to hook things up right and you and your vehicle both should arrive safely.
