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Towing

Towing

 

When it is necessary to tow the vehicle, make sure the instructions below are closely followed to prevent damage to the vehicle. When towing or pushing the vehicle, regardless of the distance or speed traveled, either disconnect the driveshaft at the rear axle and support it as necessary, or remove the axle shafts.

 

Do not tow an unbraked vehicle if the combined weight of both vehicles is more than the sum of the gross axle weight ratings (GAWR) of the towing vehicle. Otherwise brake capacity will be inadequate, which could result in personal injury or death.


Tow from the front ONLY, do the following:

  1. Disconnect the low voltage (12v) battery ground cables
  2. Remove both drive axle shafts

    Failure to remove the axle shafts when towing the vehicle with the rear wheels on the ground could result in damage to the transmission and other parts

  3. Cover the ends of the hubs with metal plates or plywood cut to fit the axle opening, and drilled to fit the axle shaft studs. This prevents lubricant from leaking out and will keep contaminants from getting into and damaging the wheel bearings and axle lubricant
  4. Remove the bumper
  5. Attach the towing device. Due to the many variables that exist in towing, positioning the lifting and towing device is the sole responsibility of the towing-vehicle operator
  6. Lift the vehicle and secure the safety chains. If extra towing clearance is needed, remove the front wheels

    Failure to protect the frame rails from the chains could cause damage, leading to eventual frame failure.

  7. Connect the clearance lights, taillights, and signal lights. Connect any special towing lights required by local regulations

    Failure to chock the tires or connect the tow truck’s air brake system before releasing the spring parking brakes could allow the disabled vehicle to suddenly roll. This could cause property damage or personal injury.

    Before attempting to tow a vehicle with an air suspension (and during the towing operation), ensure that the air suspension is properly charged. Charge the suspension through the Schrader valve on the air dryer. Attempting to tow a vehicle with an improperly charged air suspension may result in damage to the chassis and body.

  8. Chock the tires on the disabled vehicle and connect the towing vehicle’s air brake system to the vehicle being towed. Then, release the spring parking brake and remove the chocks

For additional details on Thomas Jouley buses, please refer to the Jouley - 101 High Voltage Safety & Operators Guide.