How to Tow a Rear Wheel Drive Car

Towing a car is something that many people may need to do from time to time. Whether you’re transporting a vehicle to a new location or temporarily moving it for repairs, understanding how to tow a rear wheel drive car is important. This article will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how best to tow your car safely and securely.

Preparation for Towing

Before you begin the process of towing your vehicle, there are some simple steps you should take to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible. Firstly, make sure that the vehicle being towed has adequate fluid levels and is in good working condition – this will reduce the risk of any problems arising while it is being transported. You should also check that all the lights are working correctly, and any loose items have been removed from the interior before continuing with the process.

Setting Up the Towing Rig

The next step when learning how to tow a rear-wheel drive car is setting up your rig correctly. You should begin by attaching all safety chains or straps between your tow vehicle and the one being towed, making sure they are crossed over and secured tightly so that they don’t come loose during transit. You should also check that the hitch ball on your tow vehicle is at the correct height and securely fastened to the hitch receiver.

Connecting and Disconnecting the Vehicle

Once you have everything set up, you can begin connecting your vehicle to the tow rig. Make sure that all the safety chains are securely attached by double-checking that they are tightly connected and not lose or kinked in any way. Then, make sure to raise your car’s drive wheels from the ground using a jack or a lift before attaching them to your tow vehicle. Once this is done, it’s time to disconnect your vehicle by releasing all straps or chains and lowering it back down onto its wheels.

Securing Your Load

Before you set off with your towed car, there are some steps you should take to ensure that it remains secure during transportation. Firstly, adjust any straps or chains so that they don’t become loose over time as this could cause damage or even detach from the tow rig altogether. Additionally, if possible, use wheel chocks to hold the drive wheels in place – this will reduce movement during transit and help keep everything secure while on the road.

Driving with a Tow Rig Attached

When driving with a tow rig attached, there are some important points to bear in mind. Firstly, make sure to drive slowly and cautiously – you should also be aware of any sharp turns or sudden changes in speed as this could cause the towed car to become unstable and potentially even detach from your vehicle. Additionally, you should always keep an eye out for any oncoming traffic that may be affected by the size of your tow rig.

Tips and Safety Considerations when Towing

Finally, some tips will ensure you remain safe while towing a rear wheel drive car. Firstly, make sure you wear protective clothing while carrying out the operation – this includes gloves, goggles, and sturdy shoes. Additionally, double check all connections before setting off as this will reduce the risk of anything coming loose during transit. Most importantly, however, remember that it is illegal to drive over speeds exceeding 55mph when towing a vehicle so make sure you stick within these limits for everyone’s safety.

Conclusion

Towing a car is an operation that requires careful planning and preparation to ensure it is done safely and correctly. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to tow your rear wheel drive vehicle with confidence and peace of mind. With the right knowledge and equipment, you can make sure that your experience goes as smoothly as possible – just remember to stick to legal speeds while on the road!