Towing a Rear Wheel Drive Car with Manual Transmission
Introduction
Towing a car can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. However, with the right knowledge and equipment, it can be a relatively straightforward job. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about towing a rear wheel drive car with a manual transmission.
Equipment
Before you start towing, you’ll need to gather the following equipment:
- A tow bar
- A tow rope or chain
- A safety chain
- A set of wheel dollies
- A jack
- A lug wrench
Preparing the Car
Before you can tow the car, you’ll need to prepare it.
- Put the car in neutral. This will allow the wheels to turn freely.
- Release the parking brake. This will prevent the brakes from locking up and damaging the transmission.
- Unlock the steering wheel. This will allow the steering wheel to turn freely.
- Remove the drive shafts. This will prevent the transmission from being damaged.
- Secure the car to the tow bar. Use the safety chain to prevent the car from coming loose.
- Place the wheel dollies under the rear wheels. This will prevent the rear wheels from touching the ground.
Towing the Car
Once the car is prepared, you can start towing it.
- Drive the tow vehicle slowly. Do not exceed 50 mph.
- Be careful when turning. The rear wheels of the car will not be able to turn, so you’ll need to make wide turns.
- Be aware of the car’s weight. The car will add extra weight to the tow vehicle, so you’ll need to allow for extra stopping distance.
Unloading the Car
Once you’ve reached your destination, you’ll need to unload the car.
- Park the tow vehicle on a level surface.
- Put the car in park.
- Set the parking brake.
- Remove the safety chain.
- Unhook the tow bar.
- Remove the wheel dollies.
- Reinstall the drive shafts.
Tips
- If you’re not comfortable towing a car, you can hire a professional tow truck driver.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for towing your specific car.
- Be aware of the laws in your state or country regarding towing.
Conclusion
Towing a rear wheel drive car with a manual transmission can be a relatively straightforward task, but it’s important to do it correctly. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your car is towed safely and without damage to either the car or the tow vehicle.