using a tow dolly
- Thread starter thekidbee
- Start date
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If you have answers, please help by responding to the unanswered posts.
whiteva
Well-known member
Brakes are not required but the heaver the tow the more power is needed to stop, especially in a panic situation. (I suggest getting dolly with brakes)
Lights, more lights the better. I hook up the tow dolly lights and have a set of lights in the back window of the tow. By putting the magnetic lights inside the car you eliminate any scratches on the paint and the opportunity for the lights to pop off. Simple hook (Velcro) stuck to the underside of the lights sticks to the carpet on the back of the deck (wind force against the light). Plenty of visibility for vehicles behind you.
Cheers
Lights, more lights the better. I hook up the tow dolly lights and have a set of lights in the back window of the tow. By putting the magnetic lights inside the car you eliminate any scratches on the paint and the opportunity for the lights to pop off. Simple hook (Velcro) stuck to the underside of the lights sticks to the carpet on the back of the deck (wind force against the light). Plenty of visibility for vehicles behind you.
Cheers
Gary RV_Wizard
Site Team
Actually, many states do require brakes on anything that is towed, often based on weight. Typically, towed trailers or cars over 3000 lbs require brakes, but some states have exceptions specifically for cars under tow. It can be pretty complex to determine exactly what applies in each state. Further, the motorhome chassis manufacturer sometimes stipulates a max weight the chassis can tow without auxiliary brakes, typically 1500 lbs. They will also note that the motorhome brakes are rated only to stop the coach GVWR, not the full combined weight of coach and towed car or trailer.
Last, there are the laws of physics that apply to objects in motion. Auxiliary braking always stops the rig in a shorter distance. That may not be important until somebody in front stops suddenly or pulls out in front of you. Then every inch counts!
Most states do not require separate lights on the towed car if the dolly has lights that are visible, but that's a judgement call where the law enforcement officers opinion has far more weight than yours.
Last, there are the laws of physics that apply to objects in motion. Auxiliary braking always stops the rig in a shorter distance. That may not be important until somebody in front stops suddenly or pulls out in front of you. Then every inch counts!
Most states do not require separate lights on the towed car if the dolly has lights that are visible, but that's a judgement call where the law enforcement officers opinion has far more weight than yours.
Gary RV_Wizard
Site Team
Surge brakes are fine on a dolly. Easier to use, since no brake controller is needed on the coach as with electric brakes.
GA_Boy
Well-known member
X2, I believe most large road atlas's have towing laws by State.Gary RV Roamer said:
Marvin
1PlasticMan1
Well-known member
For the past two years, I have towed my T & C with a Master Tow equipped with surge brakes. I was surprised to find that I never had a situation where the total did not stop in time. However, have not had an emergency stop, several close with no problem. I also will usually drive in Tow/Haul mode, especially in high traffic areas. The Ford transmission helps with the braking. I have the 80 series tow dolly and my T & C maxes out width wise, and have to be extremely careful to load the T & C dead center. Also, make sure you crank down the straps as tight as possible. Otherwise, the tires will damage the fender on the dolly. Replaced one so far. The weight of the T & C (4700+ pounds) just about maxes out the carrying ability of the dolly. I will probably flat tow in the future, as it is a pain to set up the system, especially in wet conditions.
grashley
Well-known member
Please listen to Gary!
Brakes will be required in many states and an excellent idea in ALL states. The laws of Physics will always supersede any state law. Surge brakes are brakes, and work well. Extra lights are always a good idea, too!
Brakes will be required in many states and an excellent idea in ALL states. The laws of Physics will always supersede any state law. Surge brakes are brakes, and work well. Extra lights are always a good idea, too!
1PlasticMan1
Well-known member
Forgot to mention that I got a magnetic light set that I mounted on top of the T&C, and also used wireties to secure them to the rack. Like to give as much warning as possible to the folks behind me.
