[T3] Towing my T3

Jim Adney jadney at vwtype3.org
Sun Sep 14 21:21:02 PDT 2014


On 14 Sep 2014 at 12:22, Tim Keohane wrote:

> I have a 73 T3 auto I need to tow about 25 miles for some diagnostic
> work. I have a tow dolly and can tow with either set ( front or rear )
> tires on the dolly. I've read/heard that rear wheels on the ground can
> be harmful to the automatic. Is there fact in this or should I secure
> the steering in straight with the rear tires on the dolly. I don't
> want to do any damage while trying to find the stumbling/funny
> shift/poor mileage issues. 

For towing an AT Type 3, you should not exceed 30 mi/hr or 30 miles 
with the drive wheels turning the AT. Just make sure you put the AT 
in N before you move. You can disconnect the drive shafts and tow any 
distance and speed you like, but this is a lot of work. Towing 
backwards with the drive wheels off the ground will also work, but 
you MUST be absolutely sure the front wheels are securely lashed in 
place.

Another option would be to start the engine and just let it idle with 
the AT in N while the car is towed. This will keep the ATF flowing in 
the tranny so you will have normal lubrication. If you do this, you 
should stop occasionally to make SURE the engine is still running. I 
don't know if there is any legal problem with this, but I don't see 
that it presents any danger, other than to itself if the engine 
stops.

Don't forget: AT in N, parking brake off.

-- 
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Jim Adney, jadney at vwtype3.org
Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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