Derek:
I've had no problem with the U-haul tow dolly, though they are really heavy.
I didn't run into any question of wheelbase, or clearance.
> Anyone have experience renting a tow dolly from Uhaul? For
> some reason I
> don't think they approve of using them with the small
> wheelbase o
> Would a 6x12 (3500lb rated) single axle utility trailer
> handle the job, they
> are in the $900 range locally?
My MGB race car hauler has for years been a 6X12 single axle utility
trailer. I had to cut down the front rail supports and reweld the rail at
5". The car then rolls up to the front rail, with the nose over the tongue.
It is very important to get enough tongue weight otherwise the trailer will
start to "snake" at 55 mph. This trailer has made it from Colorado to
California 4 times with an MGB and once with a Mini. When I bought an 18'
enclosed tandem trailer, I planned on selling the little one. I'm glad I
didn't. Since then I've used the old trailer to move at least 10 cars,
frames, bodyshells, junk sheetmetal etc. It's much easier to manouver,
particularily when picking up cars in suburban areas. Make sure you have
adequate clearance between the trailer tire and fender! Just because the
salesperson states 3500lbs doesn't mean that with the installed tires you
don't have problems. The first time I used my trailer with a complete car
(towed a number without engines) was on the way to a race. After 10 miles
the fenders started to fall off! I installed a pair of heavier springs, and
all was well.
In support of Bud. I used to flat tow my race car, and recomend it if you
know the wheel bearings are in good shape. I flat towed my 65B from
Colorado to California behind a minivan when I first moved out here. Many
years before I made up a tow bar that connects to a plate welded to a pair
of chrome bumper mounts. It has come in very handy to rescue dead MGBs.
Drop the front bumper, bolt on the adapter and away you go. I should make
up an adapter for RB cars too one of these days. I'd recomend protecting
the nose of the flat towed car, as there was a lot of gravel damage on the
long tow (one of the few cases where a vinyl bra would be really useful). I
do recomend disconnecting the drive shaft on long (+50 miles) tows, as it is
one less thing to worry about (and I dont' want to start the thread again).
So. Have fun. There are lots of options.
all the best
Kelvin.
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