The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Need some advice

This Saturday coming up, I'm headed to Salina, Ks(from Omaha)to pick up a roller frame to switch my 3/4t to a 1/2t. What I'm trying to figure out is, can I use a car dolly hitched to the ball mounted on the rear bumper of my Brother's '85 Chevy truck, or should I get it up on a regular trailer & bring 'er home that way?

I don't see any problem pulling a bare frame that way if the tires are not weather worn.

Yup I SECOND that, the tow dolly on the bumper ball should be fine ...if possible to have a spare tire along would be a great addition to the haul incase of a blowout on the towed frame.
Tim

Hy Guys, does the dolley have insurance on it? In our jurisdiction, the dolley must be insured on its own when being towed empty, if it is loaded the load must have insurance on it, either regular plates/tags, or a permit. Please check into what is required in your area[s]. If a trailer is available, I would use that to transport, just my preferrance.

dittos on the spare.i'd take a couple if available.or get a couple rims you know will fit and put a couple decent used tires on them,my .02...............dave

Thanks, guys. One little detail I forgot to mention...the trans is still hooked up to the torque tube. Would it be best to unbolt the trans & take it out so we dont get the rpm's up(on the old drivetrain)while heading down the I-state?

I would definitly take the trans.out.Also there are a lot of things to consider here.like tail and stop lights. My suggestion would be to check with your local State Highway patrol for what the requirements are for towing a vehicle,or in this case a part of a vehicle.I think it would be better to ask the proper authorities than to risk paying a big fine.And although a lot of people here are more than willing to give you suggestions,they wont help you a bit,when them red and blue lights are flashing in you rearview mirror.Just another suggestion.

True enough, Dale. Is it very hard to take the trans loose from the torque tube?

I would use a trailer if possible. You don,t know the condition of the wheel brgs & drive shaft brgs. A set up like that is not safe at high speeds. Like Dale says you will need some aux. lights to put on it.

I'm beginning to think that a trailer is the best route...thanks alot for all the help & input everybody...much appreciated!

I've done both over the years, and prefer a trailer. As mentioned, no need to worry about fixing up lights, condition of tires, etc. A trailer may cost a little more, but the peace of mind is worth it, I think. For me, if the trip is of any distance, a trailer is the way to go.
Samantha

Thanks, Samantha. Well, luckily, the fella I sold my trailer to(long story ), said that I could borrow it @ no charge. Now, I just need to find a reliable truck to tow the trailer...may have something worked out on that, though...