question about towing

Bailey · #1 12-15-2008, 05:31 PM

Is there a right way or wrong way to tow an SVX?

(If it matters, right now I have the AWD disengaged due to needing the AWD clutches replaced and havent gotten that done yet)

My ignition has been acting up and now I can't get car to start. I think it is either the ignition switch or the tumblers. (last summer I noticed I could take the keys out while car still running.) I think this is the problem, although I could be wrong.

anyway, I have to have car towed to car repair shop and remembered there is something about towing that I need to be cautious of.

I appreciate your comments, thanks in advance
Bailey

TomsSVX · #2 12-15-2008, 05:38 PM

The right way:
-Flat bed w/ all 4 wheels off the ground
-2 wheel dolly w/ rear wheels on the ground and the driveshaft physically disconnected from the rear diff

The wrong way....
-Any other way besides the two listed above

Tom

Bailey · #3 12-15-2008, 05:43 PM

This will be a 5- mile tow

TomsSVX · #4 12-15-2008, 05:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bailey

This will be a 5- mile tow

And my statements still stand... no reason to do any damage if you can avoid it

Tom

Chris · #5 12-15-2008, 06:03 PM

Agreed. The transmission on the SVX is lubricated by the pump that is engine driven. If any wheels are turning (regardless if the AWD fuse is in place or not) parts will be turning inside the transmission case without proper lubrication. All wheels up for towing, or front wheels up with rear driveshaft disconnected from differential and tied up.

Bailey · #6 12-15-2008, 07:45 PM

thanks for the advice! will do the above.
The tow truck guy is gonna love me

scottsubarus · #7 12-15-2008, 08:20 PM

Baily, Where in DSM are you taking it?

Darn, too bad your not closer to Omaha. Otherwise my son who works at Beardmore Subaru could fix it for you.

Good Luck!

Scott/Omaha

Bailey · #8 12-16-2008, 04:10 AM

Not positive where I am taking it yet, perhaps Acheson Auto Works in West Des Moines, they usually do a very good job for less than the dealership. I have had them do work on other cars, but I have never taken my SVX there...I usually take it to Ramsey Subaru.

I wish I were closer to Omaha too and would take you up on that!

JaySVX · #9 12-16-2008, 05:54 AM

If you absolutely cannot disconnect the driveshaft, and absolutely have to use the dolly, and it's only a very short distance, start the SVX, put it in neutral, and leave it running while towing. This will keep the pumps going in the transmission, and will help prevent any potential problems. Still, I certainly would not make a habit of this practice, as your pumps are going at idle, where-as if the car was traveling at the speed your towing at, the RPM's would certainly be above idle.

Bailey · #10 12-16-2008, 10:17 PM

Well, starting the car is the problem...

although tonight my husband put a charge on the battery, even though we are convinced the battery is fine, then he sort of jiggled the fuse box...and it started right up. (If we can get it started, then we wont need a tow, I will just drive it to the shop)

more details of the problem: it started about 3 weeks ago- get into car and wont start...wont even turn over. I would turn the key and nothing. Put the battery charger on it, then it started. The battery charger worked sometimes but not others...I think the battery is fine. (battery is less than a year old.)
That's why I thought perhaps it was something with the ignition. Now with him sort of wiggling the fuse box and it starting right up, I am confused.

Manarius · #11 12-16-2008, 10:44 PM

I'd check to see that all the fuses and links are pushed down and are tight. Then I'd make sure that all the other electrical connections are tight as well.

Mensaf · #12 12-16-2008, 11:31 PM

I always thought about illegally parking in front of a hydrant or something in some ignorant town and take pics/video of them two wheel towing my car away to get a free replacement tranny

Maybe you should do that.

SubaRyu · #13 12-17-2008, 01:05 AM

AAA usually ask you if your car is AWD or FF... mine has been always AWD so they always sent me flatbed tow truck.

This pic was taken almost a year ago when my power steering pump blew up.
SVX With Flatbed Truck

Good luck with your car!

bheinen74 · #14 12-18-2008, 10:35 AM

good luck on getting it fixed. make sure its towed on a flatbed all 4 wheels up off the ground.

Bailey · #15 12-23-2008, 05:59 PM

thanks for all your comments, sorry I couldnt check this thread the past few days. I did get car started and it is now in my garage until I can hopefully drive it in and figure out what is wrong. If I have to have towing, I will definitely request a flat bed! Love my car, hate it when it isn't reliable!!
Has been running like a champ until now.
merry Christmas to everyone!
Bailey