Author Topic: Towing A Bug (Read 3158 times)

vanBoven · « **on:** January 28, 2007, 06:45:52 PM »

I was wondering how hard it would be on the transmisson to tow a bug about 2000km?
would you do minimal damage or would it pretty much blow it?

thanks
matt

72vwtype2 · « **Reply #1 on:** January 28, 2007, 08:29:04 PM »

It depends on the condition of the tranny. If it's in good shape, you keep it in neutral and check it periodically ensuring it is topped up with gear oil. It should be fine. If it's in poor shape then it may not make it. Regardless of the condition of the tranny you may also want to limit the amount of km you travel per day. You should probably also carry some extra axle boots and plenty of gear oil.

If using a trailer is not an option. You may consider rentint \"trailer type wheels\" for the back wheels (i.e. your back wheels rest on top a small platform with wheels). This keeps your back wheels from turning.

Sorry, I just realized after posting that this is the \"Ask DVKK\" section. I am not a DVKK member.

Good luck.

Bruce · « **Reply #2 on:** January 28, 2007, 11:33:19 PM »

All you have to do is check the axle boots (swing axle) and top up the gear oil then you can tow it as far and for as long as you want.
My uncle towed a 68 Beetle from Vancouver to Mexico and back, 9 times. No ill effects whatsoever.

Don't try to back up, you can't.
For 69 and later cars with steering locks, key in, turn on to unlock the steering, then key off and leave it in the ign switch.
Trans in neutral.
Don't forget the safety chain.

Hansk · « **Reply #3 on:** January 30, 2007, 08:04:55 AM »

We are assuming it has a motor in it? Don't tow it without a motor in it.

Bruce · « **Reply #4 on:** January 30, 2007, 01:01:24 PM »

Good point Hans. If it didn't have an engine, the input shaft would whip around damaging the trans case. To alleviate this, take an old clutch disc and drill a hole in it so you can tie the input shaft to the case to prevent it from turning.

vanBoven · « **Reply #5 on:** January 30, 2007, 05:54:34 PM »

thanks guys for the info, yes it does have an engine in there so it is all good.

thanks
matt

68IIIbuggy · « **Reply #6 on:** January 30, 2007, 09:03:37 PM »

I've done 3 or 4 100 mile tows, and also towed my 66 800 miles down from Ft. St. John. No problems at all. After the first day you forget it's back there. I generally kept my top speed to about 105 kmh, although the Northern highways have lots of frost heaves, which would cause the car to buck a bit if you hit them really fast.