Log In | Register
Skip to main content
Topic: Towing question??? (Read 4 times) previous topic - next topic
0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.
Towing question???
Yahoo Message Number: 57938
I'm sure someone can help with this.
 I've had my LD since 2001 but am just now getting around to a toad. I have an old, standard shift, Mazda pick-up truck that I have out fitted with brackets. The Mazda truck towing instruction in my manual says to put it in neutral and turn the ignition to the ACC position to "unlock" the steering when towing four down. The guy that works on the pick up truck seems to think the wheels might turn and stay turned without a driver, but admits he doesn't know. Can anyone advise me about this?

Thanks,

Bonnie

2001 MB
Re: [Life With A Lazy Daze RV] Towing question???
Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 57939
Basically, all you have to worry about is to make absolutely certain the steering is unlocked.  Of course that means leaving a key in the ignition.
You only want to turn the key far enough to unlock it.  Don't go so far that you turn the ignition on.
 As far as the wheels turning, they have to in order to track the towing vehicle.  It's perfectly normal, and you shouldn't have any problem with it.

Dick
Re: Towing question???
Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 57941
Quote
I'm sure someone can help with this.

I've had my LD since 2001 but am just now getting around to a
toad. I have
 
Quote
an old, standard shift, Mazda pick-up truck that I have out fitted with brackets.
Hello Bonnie: I have the same toad. My 1995 Ranger is a Mazda that says Ranger.
Standard transmission.  Just follow the owners manual and all will be well. Put it in netural, release the parking brake, unlock the steering column, be sure all lights & accessories(the radio) are turned off to prevent battery drain, lock both doors to keep someone from messing with stuff and off you go. The toad brake setup will depend on what system you use. I have the Brake Buddy. There are others. The brake system is rather pricy so if you are contemplating trading in the Mazda in the next few years the Brake Buddy might be a good choice because it can be used in your new toad.
If you have any other questions specific to the Mazda/Ranger, let me know. I've got 102,000 miles on the Ranger and going strong. I put a camper shell & roof rack on mine so I have limitless storage for assorted stuff; kayaks, bikes, lawn chairs, you name it.

Ed

2000 MB
 
Re: [Life With A Lazy Daze RV] Towing question???
Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 57943
No problem.
 Read about towing in your Ford owners manual. Double check if you can use the "overdrive" when towing.
 The ACC key switch unlocks the steering column lock so the front wheels will track correctly.
 But first take your truck to a public scale and get it weighed with a full tank of gas and any other items you may carry in it while towing.
 If its over 4000 LBS, you may need to get a stronger hitch than the one LD supplied.
 Once you have the weight, get the proper tow bar and hitch, electrical connections for lights, also a breaking system with an emergency break away switch.
 Lots of info and options at:   http://www.lazydazers.org/
 I towed my 1993 extra cab Toyota, which weighed 3,500lbs, behind my 1989 26ft with no problem....other than it was rather long. It tracked with no problems.
 I used a "Brake Buddy" system, but there are many newer technologies out there.
 Double check those rear view mirrors when changing lanes and also be careful when entering and leaving gas stations.
 Also from personal experience, double check to see that the trans is in neutral and the emergency brake is off. When solo traveling its easy to forget to check, then things become a real drag :)
 Never get into a place where you have to backup, it is almost impossible.
 Have fun. It's nice not to have to break camp for a day trip, running errands and exploring new area's.

Stop and check hitch on a regular basis.

Jerry

Bonnie wrote: