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Engine and Transmission Cooling
Towing a loaded tow dolly can be quite demanding on engine and transmission cooling systems of tow vehicle,
especially if towing Iong distance or in hilly terrain. Be sure your cooling system is in top shape, and adequate for
towing anticipated load. Engine oil should be fresh and of maximum viscosity recommended for your particular
engine. Engine cooling may be enhanced by flushing system and installing fresh coolant. Automatic transmissions
may need an external oil cooler installed for unusually difficult or extended towing.
Engine and transmission heat increase as vehicle speed increases. To maintain proper cooling, do not exceed 55
m.p.h. regardless of engine size or load.
Hitch
Be certain that hitch and hitch ball are securely attached and that hitch ball is 2” in diameter. A minimum rating of
class III (6000 lbs) is required for both hitch and hitch ball.
Some sports utility vehicles are equipped with a bumper type hitch from the factory. DO NOT USE THESE HITCHES,
since bumper may not have sufficient structural capacity to handle the load. Equip your vehicle with a hitch attached
to the undercarriage of your vehicle.
Lights
Lights are required on tow dollies in every state. If your vehicle is not already equipped for tow dolly light hook-up, it
will be necessary to install connections now. Your dealer will let you know exactly what is needed for your particular
vehicle.
Tow Vehicle Loading
A loaded tow dolly tongue weight (approximately 200 lbs.) contributes to total cargo weight of tow vehicle. Tow vehicle
manufacturer’s recommended maximum passenger/cargo load must not be exceeded.
VEHICLE-IN-TOW
Limitations/Cautions
1. Vehicle-in-tow must not be wider than 76 inches at front doors to prevent damage to doors
from contact with tow dolly fenders on turns.
2. Vehicle-in-tow must weigh no more than 4,800 lbs.
Exceeding these limits may cause damage to tow dolly or vehicles.
Vehicle-in-tow tire tread must fit on ramps without overhanging sides. Tire tread width or body width of towed vehicle
must not exceed 76” maximum outside to outside and 42” minimum inside to inside.
Low hanging spoilers and air dams may be damaged by contact with tow dolly ramps when loading and unloading.
Be sure there is adequate clearance for these. If not, they must be removed before loading.
Vehicle-in-Tow Facing Forward
Vehicle-in-tow must always be facing forward (front wheels on tow dolly).
Transmission Damage to Towed Vehicles
When towing a rear axle driven front engine vehicle, the drive shaft must be disconnected to prevent transmission
damage. Simply placing transmission in neutral is not sufficient and will not prevent damage due to a lack of internal
lubrication. You must disconnect drive shaft at rear axle and tie or wire it up. The universal joint bearing caps must
be taped on to prevent loss of bearings. If you choose to remove drive shaft entirely, it may be necessary to cap
transmission tail shaft to prevent fluid loss and possible future damage. Consult your vehicle owner’s manual.
Front wheel drive vehicles need not have drive shafts disconnected because the drive wheels are loaded on tow
dolly.
Towing damages many rear engine vehicle with transaxles. Consult owner’s manual for tow suitability.
Summary of Contents for Kar-Kaddy SS
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