Know Your Tow Bar

Autos & Trucks

  • Author Matt Gregory
  • Published August 22, 2012
  • Word count 563

As with every aspect in life, operating at an increased efficiency is not only enjoyable but also cost effective. In like manner, having a tow bar installed on your truck or RV would increase the efficiency and functionality of your vehicle. A truck installed with a tow bar is better off compared with a similar truck without the precious equipment when it comes to break-downs. As such, the owner of the first truck will experience less hassles while the second will dearly pay for towing services. Carrying a tow bar with you will not only save time but will also bring some savings. Furthermore, a tow bar can be utilized to trail a car behind especially on trips. When making a selection for the best tow bar, the following are some factors to be considered for an auspicious choice.

Tow Bar Classifications

There are various classes of tow bars that one needs to be acquainted with when making a choice in order to pick a type that will suit the model and make of your vehicle. Moreover, one must keep in mind the tow’s intended use/ purpose. The categories of tow bars relate to the total weight range of the vehicle to be towed. In regard to this, there are a few classes namely;

Class I: safe for towing up to 2,000lbs (total weight)

Class II: safe for towing from 2,001-3,500lbs (total weight)

Class III: safe for towing from 3,501-5,000lbs (total weight)

Class IV: safe for towing from 5,001-10,000lbs (total weight)

It’s important to consider the weight of the vehicle to be towed—including the net weight/ capacity before purchasing or using a tow bar. Towing a vehicle that bears more weight than its manufacturer’s weight limit can cause the tow bar to bend or even break.. In addition, the towing ability or power of the truck should be put into consideration when choosing the right class. In addition to the classes mentioned above, tow bars come in different designs and styles as described below.

Rigid (A-frame)

Rigid tow bars are also referred to as A-frame tows. These are the original and most popular style of tow bars used. It is made up of triangular shape that includes a cross-bar across it.

Rigid vehicle use

The rigid style of tow bars can be permanently attached to your vehicle and folded when not in use. In order to use the tow bar one attaches a draw bar to the vehicle being towed and the tow bar is then attached to the draw bar. This however requires the presence of at least two people where one drives the vehicle while the other guides the driver. This procedure makes this design the most difficult tow bar to use.

Self-Aligning

A self-aligning tow bar is usually mounted on the vehicle and falls among the easiest to use. It comes with flexible arms for easy adjustment when towing a vehicle. One advantage of this tow is that it can be done by only one person. Moreover, the tow has got some desirable features such as the ability to self-center itself after locking into position. This feature is particularly safe and it poses less risks. Finally, it is advisable to have a look at the different types of tow bars before purchasing as this will create a better image of the tow bar.

Matt does work with Perfection Equipment—a distributor of customized work trucks and equipment. They provide a wide range of vehicle customizations like truck tool boxes. For more information, visit perfectionequipment.com.

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