Towing a car with another car might seem straightforward, but it’s a process that demands careful consideration and the right approach to ensure safety and prevent damage. Whether you’re dealing with a breakdown or moving a vehicle short distances, understanding the proper techniques and precautions is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to safely and effectively tow a car with another car.
Before you even think about attaching a tow rope, there are several essential prerequisites to consider. Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, you need a second licensed driver if you are flat towing – meaning all four wheels of the towed vehicle are on the ground. This driver will be responsible for steering and braking the towed car. Both the towing and towed vehicles must be legally registered and insured to comply with legal requirements and ensure liability coverage in case of any incidents.
When it comes to the mechanical aspects, the transmission type of the car being towed is a key factor. For a manual transmission car, the process is simpler. You should tow it in neutral to prevent transmission damage. However, automatic transmissions require more caution. Ideally, for a car with an automatic transmission, it should be towed with the engine running in neutral to keep the transmission lubricated. If the car isn’t running and has rear-wheel drive with a front engine, disconnecting the driveline is recommended to avoid transmission damage. For front-wheel drive or rear-engine, rear-wheel drive vehicles with automatic transmissions, disconnecting the driveshafts might be theoretically possible but is often impractical and complex for roadside situations. If neither of these options are feasible, towing an automatic car in neutral with the engine off carries a risk of transmission damage, especially over longer distances or at higher speeds. While short, slow-speed tows might be manageable, it’s always a risk to consider.
If a tow rope is your only option, it must be exceptionally strong. The forces exerted during towing, particularly when starting, stopping, and turning, are substantial. A weak rope can snap under stress, posing a significant danger. Always test the rope’s strength before use. With the towed car’s brakes applied, attempt to pull it with the towing vehicle. If the rope holds, it’s likely strong enough for a slow, careful tow. However, be acutely aware of the dangers of a snapping tow rope. The recoil can be lethal, and anyone within the rope’s length radius is at risk. A broken rope not only endangers bystanders but can also leave the disabled vehicle stranded in a hazardous position, leading to further complications and potential legal repercussions.
For safe towing, the tow rope or strap should ideally be at least one car length long. This distance provides the driver of the towed vehicle with adequate reaction time if the towing car brakes suddenly. For shorter ropes or straps, using a steel pipe threaded through the towing connection can act as a buffer, minimizing the risk of collision between the two vehicles, especially if the towed car has compromised brakes. The pipe should be long enough to prevent contact during turns and tight maneuvers. Minimizing slack in the tow line is also crucial. Ideally, aim for an inch or less of slack to ensure smoother starts and stops and better control.
Flat towing is often a jerky and bumpy experience, especially for those new to it. Expect tugs, jerks, and bumps throughout the process. It’s common for minor bumper damage to occur or for tie points on the vehicles to be strained. Many modern cars have designated towing points, often holes in the frame designed for specialized tow hooks used by tow trucks. However, these points are not always designed for the stresses of flat towing, and using them can risk damage. If you’re concerned about potential damage to your vehicle, reconsider flat towing and explore professional towing services instead.
During the towing process, maintaining a taught tow rope is paramount. The driver in the towed vehicle should apply slight and consistent pressure on the brakes to keep the rope tight, reducing jerking and improving control. In a manual transmission car that is otherwise functional, putting it in third gear can utilize engine compression to provide back pressure, helping to maintain tension in the tow line and smooth out the towing experience.
In conclusion, while towing a car with another car is feasible, it requires careful planning, the right equipment, and a strong focus on safety. Always prioritize safety, understand the mechanics of your vehicles, and when in doubt, consider professional towing services to avoid potential damage and hazards.
