How to tow a car with another car without a tow dolly?
Towing a car without a tow dolly can be a challenging task, but it is possible with the right preparation and equipment. Whether you're helping a friend in need or moving a vehicle to a repair shop, understanding the proper steps is crucial to ensure safety and prevent damage to both vehicles. At Kevin's Autos, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to guide you through this process step by step.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items ready:
- A strong tow rope, chain, or strap rated for the weight of the vehicle being towed.
- Proper towing hooks or attachment points on both vehicles.
- Working brake lights and turn signals on the towed vehicle (if possible).
- A driver for the towed vehicle (if it’s not being flat-towed).
Step-by-Step Guide to Towing Without a Tow Dolly
Follow these steps to safely tow a car using another car without a tow dolly:
- Step 1: Check Local Laws and Regulations
Before towing, ensure you’re complying with local laws. Some areas have restrictions on towing without a dolly or require specific equipment like safety chains or lights.
- Step 2: Inspect Both Vehicles
Check the towing vehicle’s capacity to ensure it can handle the weight of the towed car. Inspect the towed car for secure attachment points, such as tow hooks or a sturdy frame section.
- Step 3: Attach the Tow Rope or Chain
Securely attach the tow rope or chain to the towing vehicle’s hitch or tow hook. On the towed vehicle, attach the other end to a designated tow point. Avoid attaching to bumpers or suspension components, as they can easily be damaged.
- Step 4: Communicate with the Other Driver
If someone will be steering the towed vehicle, establish clear communication signals. Use hand signals or phones to stay in contact during the tow.
- Step 5: Drive Slowly and Carefully
The towing vehicle should accelerate gently and maintain a slow, steady speed. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to prevent jerking the towed car. Keep the tow rope taut to minimize strain.
- Step 6: Use Hazard Lights
Both vehicles should use hazard lights to alert other drivers. This is especially important if the towed vehicle’s brake lights aren’t functional.
- Step 7: Plan Your Route
Choose a route with minimal traffic and avoid highways or high-speed roads. Stick to short distances if possible.
Important Safety Tips
Here are some additional tips to ensure a safe towing experience:
- Never exceed the towing capacity of the towing vehicle.
- Inspect the tow rope or chain for wear and tear before use.
- If the towed vehicle has a manual transmission, place it in neutral. For automatic transmissions, consult the owner’s manual to avoid transmission damage.
- Always use a spotter if visibility is limited.
When to Call a Professional
While towing without a dolly can be done, it’s not always the safest or most efficient option. If you’re unsure about the process or lack the proper equipment, it’s best to call a professional towing service. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car troubles, from towing to repairs. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance!
By following these steps and tips, you can safely tow a car without a tow dolly. Remember, safety should always be your top priority!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you tow an automatic car with another car?
Gently raise the tongue of the tow bar and ensure that it is attached to the ball on the tow vehicle. After that is done, tighten the tow bar to the ball. Also, ensure that any other safety chains from the tow bar are fastened to the towing vehicle. For front-drive cars, a car dolly should be used.
Can you tow an automatic car a short distance?
Check the manual to see what the manufacturer recommends, as towing longer distances or at higher speeds can damage an automatic transmission. Towing an automatic car short distance to get it out of a dangerous or potentially hazardous area should be fine in most cases – just make sure to follow what the manual says.
Is it illegal to pull a car with a tow strap?
It is illegal. I use to be a tow operator. You can get a ticket for it, then still have to get it towed from there.
Do I need a dolly to move?
On moving day there are a several tools you can't live without – one of these is a dolly. Dollies allow individuals to move extremely heavy items without the help of a crew. In turn, this not only makes your move go by quicker, but it also relieves the pain carrying heavy boxes and furniture can cause on your back.
Can you legally tow a car with another car?
You can tow a car with another car. However, you must carefully research the specifications of your vehicle, the trailer hitch, and the vehicle being towed before proceeding.
What do you use to tow a car with another car?
Tow straps can be a great way to get a vehicle pulled out of mud, snow, or sand, but may not be good for driving on the road. Tow dollies are an inexpensive way to tow front wheel drive vehicles but aren't very good for AWD or 4WD cars and trucks. For those types of applications, a trailer is the best way to tow.
Can you tow a car on blocks?
In California and New York, it's possible to arrange for a car blocking your driveway to be towed and the owner must pick up the expense. However, in some states, the owner will only have to pick up the costs if they are proved to be breaking the law, meaning you could be liable to fund the costs of the tow.
How to move a car without dollies?
To tow a car with a truck without a dolly, you will need a tow bar. Attach the tow bar to the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle. Make sure to follow the instructions that come with your tow bar. Once the tow bar is attached, you can start towing the car.
How much does it cost to tow a car a short distance?
The cost of towing a car ultimately depends on how far a vehicle needs to be towed. The national average cost of a tow is around $109, but rates may vary, and you should expect to pay between $2.50 and $7 per mile. Various elements affect this cost, and there are different methods for cost calculation.
How to tow a car short distance?
In many cases, it may seem like a good idea to simply use a heavy-duty rope or cable. But often, using a tow strap or tow dolly can be the best bet to get the job done. Some of the most common methods of towing are: Using a tow strap: This is great for short distance towing jobs.
