Title: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 19, 2017, 06:49:57 pm
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 19, 2017, 06:49:57 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109539 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109539)
So it happened again....our BlueOx Avail tow bar broke. We were going VERY slow, turning into a gas station, thank God! The first one failed at less than a year old and this one is 18 months old. We got it when the last one failed. They both broke at the welds.
To our knowledge everything is within specs (towing weight, tow bar height, etc). I have already begun a conversation with BlueOx so that is in works but has anyone else had issue with this tow bar? I looked online and can't find anyone else who has had a failure with this bar.
Tammy Toalson
'06 Affinity 6611
2014 Ram 3500
So it happened again....our BlueOx Avail tow bar broke. We were going VERY slow, turning into a gas station, thank God! The first one failed at less than a year old and this one is 18 months old. We got it when the last one failed. They both broke at the welds.
To our knowledge everything is within specs (towing weight, tow bar height, etc). I have already begun a conversation with BlueOx so that is in works but has anyone else had issue with this tow bar? I looked online and can't find anyone else who has had a failure with this bar.
Tammy Toalson
'06 Affinity 6611
2014 Ram 3500
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Todd Meyer on January 19, 2017, 06:54:31 pm
Post by: Todd Meyer on January 19, 2017, 06:54:31 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109540 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109540)
Oh no. I just bought one of these. Keep us posted on what Blue Ox says. Glad nothing catastrophic happened.
2005 Intrigue Suite Sensation #11890 Cummins 400 ISL
Oh no. I just bought one of these. Keep us posted on what Blue Ox says. Glad nothing catastrophic happened.
2005 Intrigue Suite Sensation #11890 Cummins 400 ISL
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Mary and Mike Frederick on January 19, 2017, 07:30:12 pm
Post by: Mary and Mike Frederick on January 19, 2017, 07:30:12 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109541 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109541)
We've also had this happen Tammy Toalson, and it was at a stop light in Port Charlotte, FL, when someone came up to the side of our MH that our car was breaking free! So you know the scene! Wow! We were able to disconnect the car at the stoplight, found a Blue Ox place and bought it and had them put it on the next day. Our kind is not an Avail, and not sure what our name Blue Ox is. It's made of steel my husband says.
Scary for sure, and for you two times!
Wishing you the best.
Mary and Mike Frederick
06 Inspire 51784
We've also had this happen Tammy Toalson, and it was at a stop light in Port Charlotte, FL, when someone came up to the side of our MH that our car was breaking free! So you know the scene! Wow! We were able to disconnect the car at the stoplight, found a Blue Ox place and bought it and had them put it on the next day. Our kind is not an Avail, and not sure what our name Blue Ox is. It's made of steel my husband says.
Scary for sure, and for you two times!
Wishing you the best.
Mary and Mike Frederick
06 Inspire 51784
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Sharon Brandt on January 19, 2017, 07:39:41 pm
Post by: Sharon Brandt on January 19, 2017, 07:39:41 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109542 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109542)
When you get the new set up, have the installers make sure that when your coach is at ride height everything is level. Having the tow bar at an angle can stress the welds and cause the problems you are describing. Our tow bar is a Roadmaster and we have not had any problems with this one (2 years old) or the one we had prior to it for about 5 years. We have had our installations done at Hitch Pro Tow in Eugene, Oregon and they do excellent work.
S. Brandt, '06 Intrigue, 11964
2015 GMC Yukon Denali
When you get the new set up, have the installers make sure that when your coach is at ride height everything is level. Having the tow bar at an angle can stress the welds and cause the problems you are describing. Our tow bar is a Roadmaster and we have not had any problems with this one (2 years old) or the one we had prior to it for about 5 years. We have had our installations done at Hitch Pro Tow in Eugene, Oregon and they do excellent work.
S. Brandt, '06 Intrigue, 11964
2015 GMC Yukon Denali
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Mikey Drives on January 19, 2017, 08:05:58 pm
Post by: Mikey Drives on January 19, 2017, 08:05:58 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109543 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109543)
I second the vote for Roadmaster.
Mikee
I second the vote for Roadmaster.
Mikee
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: David Green on January 19, 2017, 08:23:46 pm
Post by: David Green on January 19, 2017, 08:23:46 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109544 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109544)
We have had roadmaster hitches for 20 years with never any trouble. Currently have a sterling.
Dave 2005 Allure #31284
--------
We have had roadmaster hitches for 20 years with never any trouble. Currently have a sterling.
Dave 2005 Allure #31284
--------
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 19, 2017, 08:31:09 pm
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 19, 2017, 08:31:09 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109545 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109545)
We had an Aventa II that we towed our previous truck with for over 100,000 miles with only one issue. We had a drop hitch (RoadMaster) break on us way back ('06 maybe) when we were still using a Brake Buddy for a breaking system. After that incident we are very careful about the set up. All of our two equipment is rated for 10,000 lbs. Our coach, when in gear, rides 2 to 2 1/2 inches above the truck. We have the AirForce1 braking system with a break away on our 2014 Ram 3500 since the M&G wouldn't fit the new truck.
We had an Aventa II that we towed our previous truck with for over 100,000 miles with only one issue. We had a drop hitch (RoadMaster) break on us way back ('06 maybe) when we were still using a Brake Buddy for a breaking system. After that incident we are very careful about the set up. All of our two equipment is rated for 10,000 lbs. Our coach, when in gear, rides 2 to 2 1/2 inches above the truck. We have the AirForce1 braking system with a break away on our 2014 Ram 3500 since the M&G wouldn't fit the new truck.
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 19, 2017, 08:36:38 pm
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 19, 2017, 08:36:38 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109546 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109546)
I just added a folder with pictures called "tow bar failure". :
I just added a folder with pictures called "tow bar failure". :
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 20, 2017, 09:48:03 am
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 20, 2017, 09:48:03 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109548 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109548)
Where exactly did the welds break? I've had a Blue Ox Adventa II and towed an 8000 pound vehicle including offroad and while I wore out two balls and other parts it never failed. Something is wrong.
Rich 2002 Magna
Where exactly did the welds break? I've had a Blue Ox Adventa II and towed an 8000 pound vehicle including offroad and while I wore out two balls and other parts it never failed. Something is wrong.
Rich 2002 Magna
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Don Hutchins on January 20, 2017, 12:07:52 pm
Post by: Don Hutchins on January 20, 2017, 12:07:52 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109557 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109557)
Interesting. FWIW: when setting up a Hydra-lift and my new TOAD last summer, I told my dealer that I wanted Blue Ox. He told me to go with Roadmaster because he's never seen one fail, but knows personally of Blue Ox failures. I took his advice and put the Roadmaster on. Reading this, I'm glad I did.
Don Hutchins
'08 Allure 470, 40' tag, Cat C-9, Cat Tranny, towing a Fiat 500 S-Turbo from a receiver on a Hydra-Lift which carries my motorcycle.
Interesting. FWIW: when setting up a Hydra-lift and my new TOAD last summer, I told my dealer that I wanted Blue Ox. He told me to go with Roadmaster because he's never seen one fail, but knows personally of Blue Ox failures. I took his advice and put the Roadmaster on. Reading this, I'm glad I did.
Don Hutchins
'08 Allure 470, 40' tag, Cat C-9, Cat Tranny, towing a Fiat 500 S-Turbo from a receiver on a Hydra-Lift which carries my motorcycle.
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Michael St. John on January 20, 2017, 12:29:37 pm
Post by: Michael St. John on January 20, 2017, 12:29:37 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109558 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109558)
Could it be possible the steering wheel is locking up occasionally? It happened to a friend with a RAM truck? See the link below, there have been reports of this happening while driving...
http://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/07-5-09-3rd-gen-6-7-liter-general-discussion/338882-steering-wheel-locking-up-while-driving.html
Mike
Michael St. John
stjohn911@...
2005 CC Magna Matisse C13, #6501
Could it be possible the steering wheel is locking up occasionally? It happened to a friend with a RAM truck? See the link below, there have been reports of this happening while driving...
http://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/07-5-09-3rd-gen-6-7-liter-general-discussion/338882-steering-wheel-locking-up-while-driving.html
Mike
Michael St. John
stjohn911@...
2005 CC Magna Matisse C13, #6501
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 20, 2017, 04:52:32 pm
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 20, 2017, 04:52:32 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109561 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109561)
Well, I got off the phone with BlueOx a few minutes ago. I asked about the design of this tow bar and if there was another option for us. BO Tech support told me this tow bar had been redesigned and the one she is replacing it with is the new design. She was surprised that we had this older design given the time frame we got it. In August of 2015, in an effort to get back on the road sooner we visited a dealer who had it in stock. He was willing to take the replacement from BO to help us get going. Apparently, they have had some issues with the design It was only introduced two years ago. Since then they have redesigned it. I asked why those of us with the older design weren't notified...no answer. Boy oh boy!
Tammy
Affinity 6611
Well, I got off the phone with BlueOx a few minutes ago. I asked about the design of this tow bar and if there was another option for us. BO Tech support told me this tow bar had been redesigned and the one she is replacing it with is the new design. She was surprised that we had this older design given the time frame we got it. In August of 2015, in an effort to get back on the road sooner we visited a dealer who had it in stock. He was willing to take the replacement from BO to help us get going. Apparently, they have had some issues with the design It was only introduced two years ago. Since then they have redesigned it. I asked why those of us with the older design weren't notified...no answer. Boy oh boy!
Tammy
Affinity 6611
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: blackwellnate on January 20, 2017, 04:59:11 pm
Post by: blackwellnate on January 20, 2017, 04:59:11 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109562 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109562)
My Roadmaster Sterling has been working as expected since we bought it new in 2003. 87K miles and all kinds of weather towing a Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, and now a Chevy Equinox.
Jeff Thurston
'04 Intrigue 42 Ovation
11630
My Roadmaster Sterling has been working as expected since we bought it new in 2003. 87K miles and all kinds of weather towing a Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, and now a Chevy Equinox.
Jeff Thurston
'04 Intrigue 42 Ovation
11630
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 20, 2017, 05:22:28 pm
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 20, 2017, 05:22:28 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109563 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109563)
I agree with Jim Lewis. If it was that serious an engineering flaw, Blue Ox would have had to deal with many other cases of those bars breaking and most likely horrible accidents as toads flew off the back. Having said that, from looking at the picture of your type of bar it looks inferior to the old Adventa II which had the big ball. Now I wore one of the Adventa balls out, but I was towing an almost 9,000 pound vehicle for eight years, but the bar did not fail, and all welds are fine. Many other wear parts had to be replaced. In fact with a new ball, I'm still using it now towing a lighter vehicle. In my opinion the Adventa, while rated at 10,000 pounds, is really not up to towing a 9000 pound vehicle a lot. Most people don't tow vehicles that heavy, and I don't know how the Roadmaster 10000 pound bar would hold up to long term use with a 9000 pound vehicle.. Are you towing a vehicle anywhere near that heavy?
Rich 2002 Magna
I agree with Jim Lewis. If it was that serious an engineering flaw, Blue Ox would have had to deal with many other cases of those bars breaking and most likely horrible accidents as toads flew off the back. Having said that, from looking at the picture of your type of bar it looks inferior to the old Adventa II which had the big ball. Now I wore one of the Adventa balls out, but I was towing an almost 9,000 pound vehicle for eight years, but the bar did not fail, and all welds are fine. Many other wear parts had to be replaced. In fact with a new ball, I'm still using it now towing a lighter vehicle. In my opinion the Adventa, while rated at 10,000 pounds, is really not up to towing a 9000 pound vehicle a lot. Most people don't tow vehicles that heavy, and I don't know how the Roadmaster 10000 pound bar would hold up to long term use with a 9000 pound vehicle.. Are you towing a vehicle anywhere near that heavy?
Rich 2002 Magna
Title: HWH Leveling lights
Post by: robwillardpab5411 on January 20, 2017, 05:39:46 pm
Post by: robwillardpab5411 on January 20, 2017, 05:39:46 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109564 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109564)
With the ignition on and engine running the red HWH Leveling light on the dash remains on when coach is in gear and brake released. The HWH reset button to the left of driver remains on, and travel mode light does not come on.
Pressing reset button, emergency stop, or air buttons get no change in the condition. The coach is level. The coach had to be driven to a different parking spot. All is normal in driving it. The condition remains the same after the 2 mile drive.
Suggestions welcomed! Thank you.
Michael, 2006 Inspire 360 #51748
With the ignition on and engine running the red HWH Leveling light on the dash remains on when coach is in gear and brake released. The HWH reset button to the left of driver remains on, and travel mode light does not come on.
Pressing reset button, emergency stop, or air buttons get no change in the condition. The coach is level. The coach had to be driven to a different parking spot. All is normal in driving it. The condition remains the same after the 2 mile drive.
Suggestions welcomed! Thank you.
Michael, 2006 Inspire 360 #51748
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 20, 2017, 06:35:08 pm
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 20, 2017, 06:35:08 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109565 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109565)
We are towing our diesel Ram 3500 which weighs about 8000 lbs.
Tammy
We are towing our diesel Ram 3500 which weighs about 8000 lbs.
Tammy
Title: Re: HWH Leveling lights
Post by: Kevin Waite_1 on January 20, 2017, 10:56:05 pm
Post by: Kevin Waite_1 on January 20, 2017, 10:56:05 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109567 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109567)
Michael:
Do your slide rooms still work when you are parked & the park brake is set?
Kevin Waite
541-953-6162
Michael:
Do your slide rooms still work when you are parked & the park brake is set?
Kevin Waite
541-953-6162
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 21, 2017, 10:06:21 am
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 21, 2017, 10:06:21 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109571 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109571)
You didn't mention that. Exactly where did these welds break on the tow bar? What broke?
Rich 2002 Magna
You didn't mention that. Exactly where did these welds break on the tow bar? What broke?
Rich 2002 Magna
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Mark on January 21, 2017, 10:48:11 am
Post by: Mark on January 21, 2017, 10:48:11 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109573 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109573)
Mine is about 3 to 4 years old, now wondering if I need a replacement! I leave Monday.
Mark and Denise
Mine is about 3 to 4 years old, now wondering if I need a replacement! I leave Monday.
Mark and Denise
Title: Re: HWH Leveling lights
Post by: robwillardpab5411 on January 21, 2017, 05:45:06 pm
Post by: robwillardpab5411 on January 21, 2017, 05:45:06 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109576 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109576)
WOW! Tested the slides, they work. Came back and looked at the dash and the HWH lights and all are normal.
THANK YOU KEVIN!
Am I correct in assuming there is an interlock of some kind between the HWH system and the slides and how does it work?
Michael
51748
WOW! Tested the slides, they work. Came back and looked at the dash and the HWH lights and all are normal.
THANK YOU KEVIN!
Am I correct in assuming there is an interlock of some kind between the HWH system and the slides and how does it work?
Michael
51748
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Richard McGuinness on January 22, 2017, 10:00:56 am
Post by: Richard McGuinness on January 22, 2017, 10:00:56 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109580 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109580)
I have an older Blue Ox which came with coach. I am a little concerned since I will be pulling a new Ford F150. If the issue is the design or welding, shouldn't there be some kind of recall???
Richard
2001 Affinity #5972
I have an older Blue Ox which came with coach. I am a little concerned since I will be pulling a new Ford F150. If the issue is the design or welding, shouldn't there be some kind of recall???
Richard
2001 Affinity #5972
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: David Glen on January 22, 2017, 03:35:28 pm
Post by: David Glen on January 22, 2017, 03:35:28 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109587 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109587)
Now I'm worried! I've been using a Roadmaster Sterling tow bar for close to 15 years. Probably 50,000 miles. I keep it clean, lubricated (silicon), and covered with the sleeve when not actually towing. I visually inspect it daily and, so far, have seen nothing to alarm me. I tow an '02 CR-V which weighs about 3,500 lbs.
Is my worry valid? Is there a "life" to tow bars? Should they be replaced? When?
Thanks,
Dave Glen
'06 Magna 6591
Now I'm worried! I've been using a Roadmaster Sterling tow bar for close to 15 years. Probably 50,000 miles. I keep it clean, lubricated (silicon), and covered with the sleeve when not actually towing. I visually inspect it daily and, so far, have seen nothing to alarm me. I tow an '02 CR-V which weighs about 3,500 lbs.
Is my worry valid? Is there a "life" to tow bars? Should they be replaced? When?
Thanks,
Dave Glen
'06 Magna 6591
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Thomas Insall on January 22, 2017, 04:34:34 pm
Post by: Thomas Insall on January 22, 2017, 04:34:34 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109588 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109588)
I try to visit a FMCA International rally every two or three years. Road master is always there to inspect and lubricate the tow bars. My Current Sterling Bar has been updated twice at N/C. Its 11 years old. They use to perform the same service at Home coming CC rallies. One year at a Friends Rally in Harrisburg, the hitches were serviced too. TWI 2004 Intrigue 11731
I try to visit a FMCA International rally every two or three years. Road master is always there to inspect and lubricate the tow bars. My Current Sterling Bar has been updated twice at N/C. Its 11 years old. They use to perform the same service at Home coming CC rallies. One year at a Friends Rally in Harrisburg, the hitches were serviced too. TWI 2004 Intrigue 11731
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 22, 2017, 10:42:13 pm
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 22, 2017, 10:42:13 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109589 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109589)
The Aventa is a totally different tow bar from the Avail.
The Aventa is a totally different tow bar from the Avail.
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 22, 2017, 10:53:47 pm
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 22, 2017, 10:53:47 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109590 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109590)
Blue Ox make several different tow bars. The most common ones seem to have the "knuckle". The newest one is the one we have and it does not have the knuckle. I added a folder with photos the other day. I attached two so you can see where it broke. These pieces should be intact. If you search the internet for the Avail tow bar you will see the bar that fits into the receiver in your hitch has a piece of steel welded on either side of that bar. That is where ours broke. I should have more info later this week when I get the new tow bar.
Tammy
Affinity 6611
Blue Ox make several different tow bars. The most common ones seem to have the "knuckle". The newest one is the one we have and it does not have the knuckle. I added a folder with photos the other day. I attached two so you can see where it broke. These pieces should be intact. If you search the internet for the Avail tow bar you will see the bar that fits into the receiver in your hitch has a piece of steel welded on either side of that bar. That is where ours broke. I should have more info later this week when I get the new tow bar.
Tammy
Affinity 6611
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again [2 Attachments]
Post by: Todd Meyer on January 22, 2017, 11:08:33 pm
Post by: Todd Meyer on January 22, 2017, 11:08:33 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109591 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109591)
Here is a pic of the one I picked up a couple months ago. Welds look solid.
2005 Intrigue Suite Sensation #11890 Cummins 400 ISL
Here is a pic of the one I picked up a couple months ago. Welds look solid.
2005 Intrigue Suite Sensation #11890 Cummins 400 ISL
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 23, 2017, 10:16:25 am
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on January 23, 2017, 10:16:25 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109592 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109592)
Yours is welded on the sides of the bar where ours was welded at the end. That must be the change.
Tammy
Affinity 6611
Yours is welded on the sides of the bar where ours was welded at the end. That must be the change.
Tammy
Affinity 6611
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 23, 2017, 11:08:04 am
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 23, 2017, 11:08:04 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109594 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109594)
That is unbelievable. It looks like a far weaker inferior design than the Adventa.
Rich 2002 Magna
That is unbelievable. It looks like a far weaker inferior design than the Adventa.
Rich 2002 Magna
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: George Harper_01 on January 23, 2017, 11:14:36 am
Post by: George Harper_01 on January 23, 2017, 11:14:36 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109595 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109595)
I've had two Roadmaster Sterling tow bars over the last 23 years. No problems either, but the issue with the sliding arms has always been cleaning and lubricating. If not cared for the arms will gum up and quit sliding. There are all kinds of approaches to cleaning and lubricating, but I made a big change in my protocol three years ago. I quit lubricating. Lubrication tends to attract more dirt. What I do now is spray with Simple Green and clean with a paper towel. I then spray water from another bottle to rinse, and wipe dry with a second paper towel. I do this every time I disconnect. I used to finish with a spray of silicone lubricant, but I stopped that. The free sliding of the arms has not been affected, and the tow bar stays cleaner and intervals of disassembly and major cleaning are much farther apart. In fact, no major cleaning in the last three years. Lubrication does not seem to be necessary provided the arms are kept clean before pushing them in.
George Harper
04 Allure 31093
I've had two Roadmaster Sterling tow bars over the last 23 years. No problems either, but the issue with the sliding arms has always been cleaning and lubricating. If not cared for the arms will gum up and quit sliding. There are all kinds of approaches to cleaning and lubricating, but I made a big change in my protocol three years ago. I quit lubricating. Lubrication tends to attract more dirt. What I do now is spray with Simple Green and clean with a paper towel. I then spray water from another bottle to rinse, and wipe dry with a second paper towel. I do this every time I disconnect. I used to finish with a spray of silicone lubricant, but I stopped that. The free sliding of the arms has not been affected, and the tow bar stays cleaner and intervals of disassembly and major cleaning are much farther apart. In fact, no major cleaning in the last three years. Lubrication does not seem to be necessary provided the arms are kept clean before pushing them in.
George Harper
04 Allure 31093
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Jerry Kubena on January 24, 2017, 06:37:54 pm
Post by: Jerry Kubena on January 24, 2017, 06:37:54 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109610 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109610)
I'm towing my excursion at close to 10k lbs as it sits. Blue Ox does make tow bars rated at more than 10k, but the maximum spread at the attachment points was not wide enough to attach to my Dring shackles on my aftermarket custom front bumper (the Dring shackles are custom and are welded to the front side of the bumper, extend through the bumper, and are also welded to the gussets on the back side of the bumper). I couldn't put on a heavy duty front bumper and have a Roadmaster or Blue Ox bracket mounted to the TOAD as both the bumper and tow bar brackets mount to the same place on the frame.
Anyway, for those pulling really heavy TOADS, one option is what I went with, a Hunter Manufacturing Medium military tow bar. Mine was new old stock. It is rated at 39,000 pounds. Each of the two tow bar arms are about 65 to 85 lbs though. The pintel hook is rated at 20k and my hitch receiver at 10k.
I didn't feel safe being right at the upper limit of a 10k rated tow bar. Not convenient for frequent disconnects but I have piece of mind. Since these pictures were taken I have mounted a boat trailer style swing away jack on to one of the tow bar arms which made hooking up a lot easier. Now I attach tow bars to Dring shackles on bummper, then to each other with supplied pins, open jack and crank to desired height, then drive lunet ring right in to pintel hook. The boat jack made hook up a lot easier. Using Airforce1 brake controller.
Keith 02 Affinity 6123
I'm towing my excursion at close to 10k lbs as it sits. Blue Ox does make tow bars rated at more than 10k, but the maximum spread at the attachment points was not wide enough to attach to my Dring shackles on my aftermarket custom front bumper (the Dring shackles are custom and are welded to the front side of the bumper, extend through the bumper, and are also welded to the gussets on the back side of the bumper). I couldn't put on a heavy duty front bumper and have a Roadmaster or Blue Ox bracket mounted to the TOAD as both the bumper and tow bar brackets mount to the same place on the frame.
Anyway, for those pulling really heavy TOADS, one option is what I went with, a Hunter Manufacturing Medium military tow bar. Mine was new old stock. It is rated at 39,000 pounds. Each of the two tow bar arms are about 65 to 85 lbs though. The pintel hook is rated at 20k and my hitch receiver at 10k.
I didn't feel safe being right at the upper limit of a 10k rated tow bar. Not convenient for frequent disconnects but I have piece of mind. Since these pictures were taken I have mounted a boat trailer style swing away jack on to one of the tow bar arms which made hooking up a lot easier. Now I attach tow bars to Dring shackles on bummper, then to each other with supplied pins, open jack and crank to desired height, then drive lunet ring right in to pintel hook. The boat jack made hook up a lot easier. Using Airforce1 brake controller.
Keith 02 Affinity 6123
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 25, 2017, 08:58:29 am
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 25, 2017, 08:58:29 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109612 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109612)
I solved my problem. Got rid of the 6.0 Excursion which was having too many problems. Got a Lexus LX 470 (Landcruiser) which only weighs 6000 lbs and is phenomenally more reliable at the same age and mileage as my Excursion and it is all-wheel drive. Had Blue Ox rebuild my Adventa 2 which is more than capable of handling my Lexus. Other than less space in the Lexus, wish I'd done it a long time ago.
Rich 2002 Magna
I solved my problem. Got rid of the 6.0 Excursion which was having too many problems. Got a Lexus LX 470 (Landcruiser) which only weighs 6000 lbs and is phenomenally more reliable at the same age and mileage as my Excursion and it is all-wheel drive. Had Blue Ox rebuild my Adventa 2 which is more than capable of handling my Lexus. Other than less space in the Lexus, wish I'd done it a long time ago.
Rich 2002 Magna
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Don Hutchins on January 25, 2017, 10:21:28 am
Post by: Don Hutchins on January 25, 2017, 10:21:28 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109616 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109616)
WOW! THAT is a towing rig!
I'm getting along fine with my Roadmaster set-up. But then, I'm towing a 2300 lb Fiat 500. J
Don Hutchins
'08 Allure 470, 40' tag, Cat C-9 w/ Cat tranny
WOW! THAT is a towing rig!
I'm getting along fine with my Roadmaster set-up. But then, I'm towing a 2300 lb Fiat 500. J
Don Hutchins
'08 Allure 470, 40' tag, Cat C-9 w/ Cat tranny
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: David Krug on January 25, 2017, 10:21:53 am
Post by: David Krug on January 25, 2017, 10:21:53 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109617 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109617)
Rich,
Does the Lexus LX 470 Hold 6 People>? And being all wheel Drive, you have no problems Flat 4 Towing>?
Dave 2004 Intrigue
Rich,
Does the Lexus LX 470 Hold 6 People>? And being all wheel Drive, you have no problems Flat 4 Towing>?
Dave 2004 Intrigue
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Stephen Taft on January 25, 2017, 11:26:51 am
Post by: Stephen Taft on January 25, 2017, 11:26:51 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109620 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109620)
I have a 1994 LandCruiser 80 Series. Remco out of Omaha sold me a drive shaft disconnect for the rear axle. Actually, I have made several vehicles "four down" toads with their products.
Steve
2002 Intrigue 11454
I have a 1994 LandCruiser 80 Series. Remco out of Omaha sold me a drive shaft disconnect for the rear axle. Actually, I have made several vehicles "four down" toads with their products.
Steve
2002 Intrigue 11454
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Dave Hansen on January 25, 2017, 01:01:08 pm
Post by: Dave Hansen on January 25, 2017, 01:01:08 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109623 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109623)
Rich,
I'm with the same question as another. my understanding is that you can not tow "All-Wheel Drive" vehicles 4 wheel down as it causes the transfer case and other components to be turning as you tow down the road.
Now is this Lexus has a Transfer case disconnect putting all wheels in "neutral" I believe your good to go. does it have a disconnect?
Dave
07 Country Coach Allure 430 #31495 12 Jeep GC Toad
Mountains of So Cal and
Henderson, Nev
Rich,
I'm with the same question as another. my understanding is that you can not tow "All-Wheel Drive" vehicles 4 wheel down as it causes the transfer case and other components to be turning as you tow down the road.
Now is this Lexus has a Transfer case disconnect putting all wheels in "neutral" I believe your good to go. does it have a disconnect?
Dave
07 Country Coach Allure 430 #31495 12 Jeep GC Toad
Mountains of So Cal and
Henderson, Nev
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: oconnell on January 25, 2017, 01:30:16 pm
Post by: oconnell on January 25, 2017, 01:30:16 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109626 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109626)
Have to check for the individual vehicle. In some cases the only version that can be towed four down is the allwheel drive version.
Ray
They say wine improves with age! As I enter my golden years, I say age improves with wine! The Born Loser
Have to check for the individual vehicle. In some cases the only version that can be towed four down is the allwheel drive version.
Ray
They say wine improves with age! As I enter my golden years, I say age improves with wine! The Born Loser
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 25, 2017, 07:28:54 pm
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 25, 2017, 07:28:54 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109635 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109635)
Yes it will hold 6 people but the third row rear seats are pretty small. Contrary to what Lexus says it flat tows without any problem. Transfer case in neutral, transmission in park key of. Engineers who owned them and flat tow have checked this out. It's apparently a liability issue. You forget to put the transfer case in neutral you're screwed. At 11 years old and a hundred and sixty thousand miles it has way less problems then my Excursion Eddie Bauer when it was new and I off road a lot and it will go places the Excursion wouldn't even dream of. The Roadmaster base plates for this vehicle are far superior to the Blue Ox. I got an adapter to use my Blue Ox bar with the Roadmaster base plates.
Rich 2002 Magna.
Yes it will hold 6 people but the third row rear seats are pretty small. Contrary to what Lexus says it flat tows without any problem. Transfer case in neutral, transmission in park key of. Engineers who owned them and flat tow have checked this out. It's apparently a liability issue. You forget to put the transfer case in neutral you're screwed. At 11 years old and a hundred and sixty thousand miles it has way less problems then my Excursion Eddie Bauer when it was new and I off road a lot and it will go places the Excursion wouldn't even dream of. The Roadmaster base plates for this vehicle are far superior to the Blue Ox. I got an adapter to use my Blue Ox bar with the Roadmaster base plates.
Rich 2002 Magna.
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Carl Wian on January 25, 2017, 07:36:10 pm
Post by: Carl Wian on January 25, 2017, 07:36:10 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109636 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109636)
What year is your Lexus?
Carl
06'Inspire 360
What year is your Lexus?
Carl
06'Inspire 360
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 26, 2017, 01:28:53 pm
Post by: Richard Barlow on January 26, 2017, 01:28:53 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109641 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109641)
Mine is a 2005 LX470. Towability would apply through 2007. I'm not so sure the 570 can be towed 4 wheels down. You would have to investigate that.
Rich 2002 Magna
Mine is a 2005 LX470. Towability would apply through 2007. I'm not so sure the 570 can be towed 4 wheels down. You would have to investigate that.
Rich 2002 Magna
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: David Krug on January 26, 2017, 05:18:54 pm
Post by: David Krug on January 26, 2017, 05:18:54 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109643 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109643)
Rich, I like the Lexus LX 470 that you have. I never realized how many seats they had. I have 4 kids so would need a toad that could hold 6. Obviously that limits things a bit. Could you tell me what you needed to do to up fit the Lexus to tow 4 down?
Dave 2004 Intrigue
Rich, I like the Lexus LX 470 that you have. I never realized how many seats they had. I have 4 kids so would need a toad that could hold 6. Obviously that limits things a bit. Could you tell me what you needed to do to up fit the Lexus to tow 4 down?
Dave 2004 Intrigue
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again - added comparison picture.
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on February 10, 2017, 11:25:36 am
Post by: Ricktammy2003 on February 10, 2017, 11:25:36 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109906 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109906)
Sorry it took me so long to get this up. Here is a comparison picture of the two tow bars.
Tammy
Affinity 6611
Sorry it took me so long to get this up. Here is a comparison picture of the two tow bars.
Tammy
Affinity 6611
Title: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Alex Ritchey on January 20, 2017, 10:52:51 am
Post by: Alex Ritchey on January 20, 2017, 10:52:51 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109550 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109550)
Just came across something to keep in the back of your head when purchasing a new coach. The new steerable tag coaches can drag your vehicle in certain conditions causing serious damage to the towbar and complete failure. To my knowledge no real test have been done between coach builders and towbar manufacturers. Buyer beware.
Alex Ritchey 2000 CC Affinity B&B #5773
Just came across something to keep in the back of your head when purchasing a new coach. The new steerable tag coaches can drag your vehicle in certain conditions causing serious damage to the towbar and complete failure. To my knowledge no real test have been done between coach builders and towbar manufacturers. Buyer beware.
Alex Ritchey 2000 CC Affinity B&B #5773
Title: Re: Fwd: [Country-Coach-Owners] Towbar failure...again
Post by: Dennis Loving on January 20, 2017, 11:55:17 am
Post by: Dennis Loving on January 20, 2017, 11:55:17 am
Yahoo Message Number: 109551 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109551)
Would like to see more info as to where the weld failed? Was it the tow bar itself or the brackets mounted to the tow vehicle? Has the tow bar been in a bind at one time by trying to back the tow vehicle? Photos would help if possible. Thanks!
Dennis '09 Allure 470 Crane Prairie
Would like to see more info as to where the weld failed? Was it the tow bar itself or the brackets mounted to the tow vehicle? Has the tow bar been in a bind at one time by trying to back the tow vehicle? Photos would help if possible. Thanks!
Dennis '09 Allure 470 Crane Prairie
Title: Re: Towbar failure...again
Post by: Jim Lewis on January 20, 2017, 12:02:07 pm
Post by: Jim Lewis on January 20, 2017, 12:02:07 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 109553 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/109553)
I've been a selling & installing dealer for all the major brands for going on 20 years now. First off I can't understand this reasoning that a rear steer can have any adverse effect on the load being put on the tow bar or the toad. I've hooked many of my customers with bus conversions that have rear steer tag's and not one of them has ever broke a tow bar or hurt the toad because of rear steer, yes some have just plain wore them out with extreme mileage, and yes some have miss-used them normally when they change toad's on the fly and didn't compensate for the different height. BUT never have I heard of an issue from rear steer. That's like saying it'll tow a trailer different! Now I have had a customer wipe out another customer's coach in my lot because of the rear steer, not paying attention and the ass end swung into the other coach making a turn and tore the rear cap off of the one sitting. I've driven many rear steer bus conversions over the years, towed my personal toad back behind for a customer (1500 miles) so I've got some personal experience driving those type of coaches. I've got a call into blue ox after reading this and will report back what I hear. My first thought over the bar breaking is luckily it's blue ox and they will take care of it, second, being this is the second time what are you doing wrong? I'm not saying that to rise you up, I'm saying that because this just isn't something that happens very often and when something like this happens I always want to see the set-up in person to see what's really going on and see what's wrong.... Something is, just need to figure out what!
Safe Travels
Jim Lewis
Infinity Coach
I've been a selling & installing dealer for all the major brands for going on 20 years now. First off I can't understand this reasoning that a rear steer can have any adverse effect on the load being put on the tow bar or the toad. I've hooked many of my customers with bus conversions that have rear steer tag's and not one of them has ever broke a tow bar or hurt the toad because of rear steer, yes some have just plain wore them out with extreme mileage, and yes some have miss-used them normally when they change toad's on the fly and didn't compensate for the different height. BUT never have I heard of an issue from rear steer. That's like saying it'll tow a trailer different! Now I have had a customer wipe out another customer's coach in my lot because of the rear steer, not paying attention and the ass end swung into the other coach making a turn and tore the rear cap off of the one sitting. I've driven many rear steer bus conversions over the years, towed my personal toad back behind for a customer (1500 miles) so I've got some personal experience driving those type of coaches. I've got a call into blue ox after reading this and will report back what I hear. My first thought over the bar breaking is luckily it's blue ox and they will take care of it, second, being this is the second time what are you doing wrong? I'm not saying that to rise you up, I'm saying that because this just isn't something that happens very often and when something like this happens I always want to see the set-up in person to see what's really going on and see what's wrong.... Something is, just need to figure out what!
Safe Travels
Jim Lewis
Infinity Coach