towing with a car dolly
How to use a car tow dolly:
The dolly coupler must be locked onto the 2-inch ball.
It is ideal that the dolly is as close to level as possible. Fourteen inches is ideal. Buy a drop receiver if necessary. The more level the dolly is, the more precise the brakes will be.
Make sure the coupler latch is in the locked position and that the 2-inch ball is properly seated into the coupler. The dolly and truck or RV should be aligned straight.
Align your vehicle with the car tow dolly. The vehicle should be as close to center on the car tow dolly as possible.
Now drive up the ramps slowly but steady with one foot over the brake. You should have someone outside guiding you and telling you when to stop. Once you are on the dolly properly pull up to the front. Both tires should be touching the upright angle. Be very careful not to drive off the front of the dolly, which will be a real mess to correct.
Now apply the brake so the car cannot move or roll.
Take the wheel strap and drape it over and behind the tire and wheel, allowing it to rest on the tires.
Now use an adjustable wrench or a socket to tighten the winch spool.
Place the ramps on the front of the car tow dolly, strapping them down, and you are ready to go.
Important Notes:
Make sure you free the parking the brake.
If you have a locking column, make sure it is left unlocked thus allowing the steering wheel to turn.
Some people just place the ramps into the car trunk until they need them again.
It is very important to check air pressure before departing. The tires should be pumped up to 75 PSI. Your towed vehicle tires should be pressurized and equalized so there is no uneven rolling resistance coming from your car’s tires.
Never allow an inexperienced driver to tow a loaded car tow dolly.
Dolly pictured is an IDLER unit; no brakes. Disc brake pictures appear at the end.