For those in the RV community or anyone needing to tow a vehicle, the car dolly is an invaluable tool. Having spent 45 years welding and fabricating, including teaching welding in the Army, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits and practicalities of using a tow dolly. There are often questions raised about their safety and whether building one is a viable option. Let’s address these concerns based on real-world experience.
Safety is paramount when towing, and the car dolly often comes under scrutiny. However, with proper setup and the right equipment, a tow dolly is a safe and effective solution for hauling a vehicle behind a motorhome or truck. My personal experience using a Stehl dolly to tow our car behind a 37′ motorhome has been entirely positive. It’s crucial to dispel myths suggesting inherent dangers, as responsible use and quality equipment make all the difference.
One non-negotiable feature when selecting a car dolly is brakes. While you can find dollies without them, I strongly advise against it. Braking systems, whether electric or surge hydraulic, significantly enhance safety, especially in emergency stops or downhill situations. Electric brakes offer an advantage as they allow for in-cab brake intensity adjustment, providing greater control.
Setting up your tow dolly correctly is just as critical as choosing one with brakes. Firstly, ensure your tow vehicle’s hitch capacity meets or exceeds the weight you plan to tow. Secondly, never exceed the weight capacity of the dolly itself. Proper tongue alignment is another key factor – it should be parallel to the ground when loaded. Achieving this often requires using a drop tongue ball mount in your receiver hitch, which is essential to prevent “tail wagging” and maintain stable towing. For visibility, especially on RVs, magnetic tow lights on the towed vehicle are a practical addition. I’ve successfully used a dolly for various short-distance tows without issue, emphasizing the importance of these setup considerations.
When considering acquiring a car dolly, many think about building one to save costs. While the satisfaction of DIY projects is undeniable, and the idea of a custom-built dolly might seem appealing, in reality, buying a manufactured dolly is often the more sensible route. From a purely financial perspective, purchasing a car dolly is often more economical than sourcing materials, components like axles, wheels, brakes, and lights, and then investing the time and labor to fabricate it yourself. Furthermore, liability becomes a significant factor. In the event of equipment failure with a homemade dolly, you could face considerable legal repercussions. Established brands have already addressed these safety and liability concerns through engineering and testing.
For those looking to purchase, exploring retailers like Northern Tool can provide a range of options. They offer various car dollies designed for different vehicle weights and towing needs. Visiting their website or stores can give you a clear idea of available features, capacities, and price points, helping you make an informed decision. You can also research other brands and compare features to ensure you’re getting the best value and safety for your needs.
To ensure longevity and reliability, investing in a few essential extras is wise. Immediately after purchasing my dolly, I acquired a spare wheel and tire directly from the manufacturer and an extra set of tie-down straps. Regular maintenance is also key. Before each trip, always check tire pressure (including the spare), lug nut torque, and ensure the pivot bed moves freely, lubricating if necessary.
In conclusion, car dollies are a cost-effective and safe towing solution when used correctly and equipped with essential features like brakes. While the DIY spirit is admirable, purchasing a car dolly from a reputable source, possibly exploring options at retailers like Northern Tool, is often more practical, economical, and safer in the long run. Focus on proper setup, regular maintenance, and understanding weight capacities to ensure safe and successful towing experiences.
