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Re: Tell me how to tow my LBC

To: DWILSON@OREGON.UOREGON.EDU (Dennis Wilson)
Subject: Re: Tell me how to tow my LBC
From: phile@pwcs.StPaul.GOV (Philip J Ethier)
Date: Mon, 15 Jun 92 10:00:53 CDT
>The camper has a tow hitch on the back with 1500 lbs on it

You mean that is the load limit stamped on the hitch?  Probably OK, but be sure 
that the connections to the vehicle are first-rate.

>the Midget weighs 3000 lbs.

As my kid say:  "not EVEN!".  The Spridget probably weighs about 1700, because
it is a fat Rubber-Bumper type.  Earlier models are closer to 1500.

>can I tow the Midget with all 4 wheels on the ground for 2000 miles?

Yes.  

Set the front toe to 0 or just a bit of toe-in.  
Pump tires to 35 psi.
Be sure your front wheel bearings are OK.
Disconnect the flange on the driveshaft where it meets the input flange on the 
differential.  This involves removing four bolts.  Push the driveshaft as far 
forward as possible.  DO NOT PULL IT OUT or the oil will all leak out of the 
transmission, and the driveshaft is a certified bitch to replace.  Secure the 
driveshaft up and away from the differential, even if you need to drill some 
small holes in the tunnel to run heavy safety wire.  The carpet will cover them 
later.
Disconnect the ignition and put a note on it that says "DRIVESHAFT!".  :-)
Be sure that the differential is full to the level plug with good gear oil.
Make sure your parking brake is completely free.
Use as long a tow bar as you can get, and make sure it is secure on the car.
Wire to the lights on the car, or attach a light bar to the rear bumper.
Once in a while on the trip, check all connections and feel each wheel to see 
if it is getting warm to check for bearing trouble or brake drag.

>I'm sure a car dolly would be better

I'm not so sure.  A trailer would be better, but a dolly gives you most of the 
disadvantages of a flat-tow and adds weight.

>I'm worried about the rotation of the wheels without the rotation of the
>engine,

Absolutely.  Get that driveshaft disconnected or your transmission may not
forgive you.

>Thanks for all and any help.

Have a safe trip!

Phil Ethier, THE RIGHT LINE, 672 Orleans Street, Saint Paul, MN  55107-2676
h (612) 224-3105     lotus@pnet51.orb.mn.org
w (612) 298-5324     phile@pwcs.stpaul.gov  (list goes here)
"The workingman's GT-40" - Anthony Colin Bruce Chapman


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