4. TOWING INFORMATION
IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING THE TOWING OF VEHICLES WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION AND FOUR WHEEL
DRIVE VEHICLES.
4.1.
Before towing a four wheel drive vehicle or a vehicle with automatic transmission it is essential to consult the
manufacturer’s handbook for the vehicle to be towed to check the correct towing procedure.
The correct procedure will vary
from vehicle to vehicle depending on the configuration of the transmission. (In some cases certain 4WD vehicles cannot be towed
with all four wheels on the ground and will have to be transported on a trailer). Failure to observe the correct procedure could result in
severe damage to the vehicle’s transmission.
4.2.
Many automatic transmissions require the engine to be active in order to drive a pump that provides lubrication to the transmission.
If the transmission is turned by the road wheels without the engine running, permanent damage could be done to the transmission
due to lack of lubrication. This could also apply to the secondary gearbox on a four wheel drive vehicle.
4.3.
Four wheel drive systems are designed to run in tandem with the engine. If the engine is off but the transmission is driven at speed
by the road wheels, the mismatch in speed between components within the gearboxes could also result in permanent damage to the
transmission.
4.4.
It is usually possible to tow four wheel drive vehicles with manual transmission as the engine can be disconnected from the primary
gearbox. However, the road wheels may still be driving a secondary gearbox. The manufacturer will state in which drive position
the secondary gearbox should be placed. and will recommend a maximum towing speed. A towing distance and/or time limit may also
be imposed by the manufacturer.
4.5.
Some four wheel vehicles are fitted with devices to disconnect the hubs and/ or driveshafts especially for towing purposes.
4.6.
Consult the manufacturer’s handbook before reversing with a four wheel drive vehicle attached or a vehicle with automatic
transmission.
4.7.
REMEMBER,
ALWAYS FOLLOW THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER’S RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VEHICLE TO BE
TOWED.
5. ASSEMBLY
5.1.
Remove contents from packing and check to ensure everything is correct and undamaged. Should you experience any problems contact
your supplier immediately.
5.2.
Fit the two hook sections (A&B) into the centre section (C) and locate section A only with pin (D). Retain pin with clip (E).
5.3.
Alternative pin holes are provided in the centre section for horizontal or vertical tow eyes so that the hooks (G & J) are always
square to the eyes.
5.4.
USE
5.5.
Position vehicles so that the distance between the towing eyes is approximately 1.8 metres.
5.6.
Slide back and rotate hook gate (F) clear and then fit hook (G) through vehicle towing eye. If towing eye is horizontal, the hook must have
the gap downwards, as shown in diagram.
5.7.
Push the hook gate (F) up against the tow eye and retain it in position with pin (H) and clip (E).
5.8.
Similarly fit and retain hook (J) to the towing eye of the second vehicle sliding section (B) into, or out of, section (C) as necessary
5.9.
Carefully move towing vehicle backwards or forwards to align pin holes in sections (B & C). Locate with pin (D). Retain pin with clip (E).
6. TOWING PROCEDURE
TPK252.V2 has a rolling load capacity of 2,000 kg, based on a level surface. Remember the weight of towed vehicle should be
calculated to include any load in the vehicle, and to take into account any extreme gradients.
WARNING! Before using equipment ensure you have read, understood and apply Section 1 safety instructions.
TOWING EYES
- Many vehicle manufacturers include a separate towing eye which is not permanently fixed to the chassis.
Important: Before fitting the tow pole, to either vehicle, check the manufacturers’ handbooks to ensure that the towing
points (do not use ‘tie points’) are suitable for use with a tow pole and are capable of safely withstanding a ‘brake load’.
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
- It is the responsibility of the towing driver to ensure that all legal requirements are met. This includes
the towing operation and actions taken by the towed driver. Check you are insured for towing. Trade users must have a “Trade
Insurance Policy” which covers commercial towing. Note the policy will not provide cover if the law is broken, or the weight of
towed load exceeds the capacity of the tow pole, or if towed vehicle weighs more than the towing vehicle. When calculating
the weight of the towed vehicle remember that any load carried in the vehicle must be added to the kerb weight indicated in the
manufacturer’s handbook.
6.1.
When towing, unlock the steering wheel and activate the warning lights on both vehicles. Ensure that the towed vehicle is in neutral,
the wheels are free to rotate, and that hand and foot brakes are disengaged.
6.2.
While driving, the tow pole must remain parallel with the direction of travel, i.e. if the tow fittings are placed on different sides of
the vehicles, it will be necessary to drive out of line (the car being towed would not be directly behind the one towing). Pole must
also be approximately parallel with the road surface i.e. with the towing eyes at similar height
6.3.
The distance between the vehicles must be enough for the driver in the towed vehicle to see the rear lights of the towing vehicle.
6.4.
A MAXIMUM SPEED OF 15MPH
should not be exceeded.
6.5.
Always take great care when towing and ensure a very gradual “take-up” when starting and braking.
WARNING!
The tow pole and fittings are not able to withstand shock loads resulting from sudden changes in speed.
6.6.
After use, dismantle the tow pole, clean it and store it in a dry place. Inspect regularly for signs of stress or wear. Replacement parts
are not available for this unit.
Original Language Version
© Jack Sealey Limited
TPK252.V2 Issue 2 (2) 05/08/21
