If you own a motorhome or recreational vehicle, you might have to tow your car behind you when you are on a long trip. This is where dolly tow bars come in handy. A dolly tow bar is a device that aids in towing a vehicle with front-wheel drive capabilities. It consists of an axle and two wheels, that prop the front wheels of the car attached to it.
Many people use dolly tow bars as an alternative to towing a disabled vehicle with all four wheels on the pavement, or the more traditional way of flat towing. Dolly tow bars will eliminate the need for maintaining a full trailer unit, as well.
Types of Dolly Tow Bars
There are two types of dolly tow bars that are commonly used; the manual and the automatic dolly tow bars. When choosing a dolly tow bar, it’s important to consider your needs and budget before making a purchase.
The manual dolly tow bar is a less expensive option compared to the automatic dolly tow bar, but you will have to load your vehicle manually onto the dolly tow bar. This method requires some physical strength and can be quite demanding if you’re not used to towing vehicles.
On the other hand, automatic dolly tow bars are more expensive, but they are easier to use. You can attach the dolly to your RV and tow your car by putting it in neutral to minimize the dragging effect.
Advantages of using a dolly tow bar
1. They reduce wear and tear on your vehicle.
When you tow your vehicle using dolly tow bars, your car’s front wheels are safely off the ground. This means that they’re not rotating the transmission, adding unnecessary mileage, or getting damaged in any way.
2. They save on fuel and maintenance.
Dolly tow bars are lightweight, meaning they won’t add extra weight to your vehicle. This will help you save fuel, which can become expensive if you’re traveling long distances. Additionally, they don’t require regular maintenance except for greasing the fittings and checking the tire pressure.
3. They’re easy to store.
Because dolly tow bars are small and lightweight, they’re easy to store. They can easily be stored in your car trunk when not in use, which is great if you’re short on space.
4. They’re versatile.
Dolly tow bars don’t discriminate when it comes to the type of car you want to tow, be it a truck, SUV, or a compact car. There are dolly tow bars of different sizes and types that can cater to any car model.
Conclusion
Dolly tow bars are a great option if you own a recreational vehicle and want to bring your car with you on long road trips. There are two types of dolly tow bars and each has its own set of advantages. While they might seem expensive at first glance, they have significant savings in fuel consumption, maintenance, and allow you to extend the life of your vehicle. Moreover, they’re versatile, lightweight, and easy to store, making them a great purchase for anyone who wants to tow their car along with their recreational vehicles.
FAQ
What is the difference between a tow bar and a tow dolly?
When it comes to towing a vehicle behind an RV or another vehicle, there are two common methods used: tow bars and tow dollies. While both options allow for easy towing, there are some key differences that should be considered when deciding which option to use.
Firstly, a tow dolly is a small trailer that is used to haul vehicles behind an RV or other vehicle. The front wheels of the towed vehicle are placed onto the tow dolly and strapped down, while the rear wheels remain on the ground and serve as a pivot point for the dolly. This allows for easy towing of various types of vehicles, be they trucks, cars, vans, or SUVs, behind your RV. Additionally, many tow dollies feature brakes and lights to provide additional control and safety during transportation.
On the other hand, tow bars are designed to tow a vehicle with all four wheels down on the ground. Tow bars are essentially a set of bars that connect the towed vehicle to the RV or towing vehicle. These bars are attached to the frame of both vehicles and serve as an intermediary between the two. Tow bars are typically easy to assemble and disassemble, making them a convenient option for many RV owners.
The main difference between a tow dolly and a tow bar is the type of vehicles that can be towed. Tow dollies allow for the towing of a wider range of vehicles, including those with front-wheel drive, and offer additional braking control. However, if you have a vehicle with 4-wheel drive or automatic transmission, using a tow dolly could cause damage to the transmission. In contrast, tow bars are more limited in the types of vehicles that can be towed, but are generally safer for the vehicle being towed.
When deciding between a tow bar and a tow dolly, it is important to consider the size and weight of the vehicle being towed, the convenience of setup and use, and the relative safety of each option.
Is it better to flat tow or dolly tow?
When it comes to towing your vehicle, you have two primary options: flat towing or dolly towing. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right type of tow depends on several factors.
Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing or four-wheel towing, involves towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. This method is popular among RVers because it allows them to tow a small car behind their motorhome without needing a separate trailer. Flat towing is typically less expensive than dolly towing because you don’t need to purchase or rent a tow dolly. It’s also more convenient because you don’t need to load the vehicle onto the tow dolly. You simply attach the tow bar to the front of the vehicle, hook it up to the motorhome, and you’re ready to go.
However, flat towing has its downsides too. One major disadvantage is that not all vehicles can be flat towed. Before choosing this method, you’ll need to make sure your vehicle is approved for flat towing by the manufacturer, and you may need to make some modifications to the vehicle to prepare it for towing. Flat towing can also put a lot of wear and tear on your vehicle’s tires, suspension, and drivetrain. If you’re planning to tow your vehicle long distances, this can be a concern.
Dolly towing involves towing a vehicle with two wheels on a trailer or tow dolly, while the other two wheels remain on the ground. This method is useful if your vehicle can’t be flat towed or if you’re towing a larger vehicle that’s too heavy for flat towing. Dolly towing can also be easier on your vehicle because it eliminates the wear and tear on the tires, suspension, and drivetrain. Additionally, some people find dolly towing to be more stable at high speeds because the vehicle is lifted up off the ground.
However, dolly towing does have some downsides. It can be more expensive than flat towing because you need to purchase or rent a tow dolly or trailer. It can also be less convenient because you need to load the vehicle onto the trailer or dolly and strap it down securely. This can be more time-consuming and require more effort than simply attaching a tow bar.
The decision between flat towing and dolly towing comes down to your specific situation. If you’re looking for a low-cost and convenient option for towing a small vehicle short distances, flat towing may be the way to go. If you need to tow a heavier vehicle, or if you’re planning to tow a vehicle long distances, dolly towing may be a better choice to minimize wear and tear on your vehicle.
What are the pros and cons of tow dollies?
Tow dollies are a popular method of towing vehicles, particularly for those who own RVs or other large vehicles. They are essentially a small trailer with a platform that lifts one end of the towed vehicle off the ground, allowing the other end to roll along behind the towing vehicle. While tow dollies have many benefits, they also have some drawbacks that should be considered before making a decision to use one.
One of the biggest advantages of using a tow dolly is their lower entry cost. Unlike flat-towing or using a trailer, tow dollies are a more affordable option to purchase or rent. Additionally, tow dollies are often compatible with a wider range of vehicles, allowing you to tow a variety of cars and trucks without needing additional equipment or modifications.
Another benefit of using a tow dolly is the ease of use. Unlike other methods of towing, tow dollies don’t require any special equipment or modifications to your towing vehicle. They are easy to hook up and disconnect, and they don’t take up much space when not in use.
However, there are also some disadvantages to using a tow dolly. One of the main drawbacks is the additional weight and length added to your towing vehicle. Tow dollies can be heavy and bulky, which can impact your vehicle’s handling and make it more difficult to maneuver in certain situations. Additionally, tow dollies can be hard to back up and turn around in tight spaces.
Another potential issue with tow dollies is the amount of wear and tear they can cause on your towed vehicle. Because one end of the car is lifted off the ground, it can put additional strain on the suspension and tires. This can cause issues down the road, particularly if you are towing your vehicle over long distances or in challenging terrain.
The decision to use a tow dolly will depend on your individual needs and preferences. While these devices offer many benefits, they may not be ideal for everyone. By considering the pros and cons of tow dollies, you can make an informed decision that will keep your vehicle safe and secure on the road.
What are the two types of tow bar?
When it comes to towing a trailer or caravan, one of the most important components is the towbar. While it may seem like a simple piece of equipment, there are actually several different types of towbars available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Broadly speaking, there are two main types of towbars: fixed and detachable.
Fixed towbars are exactly what they sound like – they are permanently attached to the vehicle and cannot be removed. This can make them slightly less versatile, as they are always at the back of the vehicle and can sometimes get in the way when not in use. However, they are generally considered to be stronger and more rigid than detachable towbars, which can be a big advantage when towing heavier loads.
Detachable towbars, on the other hand, are designed to be removed when not in use. This can be a major advantage for those who don’t want their towbar to be visible all the time, or who need to regularly switch between their towing and non-towing setups. Detachable towbars are available in two different styles: swan neck and flange.
Swan neck towbars are designed to be discreet and unobtrusive. They have a sleek, curved shape that matches the lines of the vehicle, and are often seen as a more aesthetically pleasing option. However, they can be less versatile than flange towbars, as they are only compatible with certain types of towing couplings.
Flange towbars, on the other hand, are slightly more visible but much more versatile. They have a square or rectangular plate that bolts onto the towball, allowing them to be used with a wider range of vehicles and couplings. Flange towbars tend to be slightly cheaper than swan neck towbars, but they may not be as aesthetically pleasing to some people.
The type of towbar that you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you only plan to tow occasionally and don’t want your towbar to be visible all the time, a detachable swan neck towbar may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you regularly tow heavy loads and need a strong, rigid towbar, a fixed towbar may be a better option. Whatever your needs, it’s important to choose a high-quality towbar that is specifically designed for your vehicle in order to ensure safe and efficient towing.
Can you tow an RV with a tow dolly?
Yes, you can tow an RV with a tow dolly. A tow dolly is another option for towing your vehicle behind your motorhome. This method of towing props your vehicle on the front two wheels with the back wheels on the ground.
It is important to make sure that your RV is compatible with a tow dolly. Some RVs may not be able to tow a vehicle with a tow dolly due to weight restrictions, brakes, or other factors. It is recommended to consult the RV owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for information on towing specifications.
Using a tow dolly requires attaching the dolly to your RV using a hitch and safety chains. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when attaching the dolly to your RV.
When loading your vehicle onto the tow dolly, make sure it is secure and positioned correctly. Most tow dollies require you to steer the front wheels of your vehicle onto the dolly and secure them with straps or chains. Be sure to tighten the straps or chains securely and test the fit of your vehicle on the dolly before towing.
Before towing your vehicle on a tow dolly, it is recommended to check your state’s regulations regarding proper lighting and brake requirements. In most states, towed vehicles must be equipped with tail and brake lights, and some states require brakes for towed vehicles. Be sure to also check the tires and brakes on the tow dolly and the vehicle being towed before hitting the road.
Towing an RV with a tow dolly is one option for towing a vehicle behind your motorhome. However, it is important to make sure your RV is compatible with a tow dolly, follow manufacturer instructions for attaching and loading the dolly, and check state regulations before towing.