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Proper Way to Load E-Bodies onto Tow Trailer

Started by BluRaySRT, November 03, 2025, 05:11:34 PM

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BluRaySRT

I need to have my Cuda moved between repair shops.   As you know they sometimes need to pull the car onto the trailer.  Can anyone offer advise on where to attach the chains.  I know that using the holes in the frame rail is not good as it will do damage to them.  Thanks for your help!

pschlosser

The tow truck driver will (presumable have experience and) know what to hook on to, but DO watch them.  Many use a web thing-deal to surround the front tires, no problem.  But the driver (presuming of a flatbed) will need to hook (a literal hook, in some cases) on a chain at the rear, and fasten it to the bed.  Then they pull the front tire webs forward to cinch it down.

Keep a sharp eye.  more than once, have I had to redirect the driver placing the hook on the rear axle, which is fine, but they placed it in a way to crush the rear drum brake line(s), so just keep an eye out, watch them, and help them not screw anything up.

Many of those guys have never seen, or towed a vintage e-body.

RUNCHARGER

If I winch them, I like to wrap around the K-member, that takes patience if the engine is in the car though. If the engine is in the car you could probably go through a hole in the side of the k-member. Loop the chain and hook it to itself. Ha, ha, I don't think I've had to winch one with the engine in it come to think of it. Obviously I wrapped around the rear axle in my R/T-SE.
Sheldon



BluRaySRT

Thanks for everyone's comments they proved to be quite helpful!

HP2

When loading cars, I use a small harbor freight winch that I double up the line and use a pulley block with a hook. I put the pulley block in a void in the K frame, and winch the car up on the trailer.  The double line layout allows me to double the pulling power of the lighter weight winch. Using a larger unit may not require this.

Once on the trailer, I use two wrap around straps that I put on the lower control arms and lace around the suspension bumpers. These hook to a rail on the front of my trailer. On the rear, I put the hooks for the straps in the front spring eye pockets and pull everything towards the rear until tight. Then the car goes into gear and the e-brake applied. I am thinking of getting some of those plates with  attachment points that mount under the u-bolts. Being dead nuts original is not on my radar for my cars.

There is plenty of debate if cars should be allowed to bounce when being towed or if they should be mounted solid so the suspension can't move at all. I have even seen guys you put cars on blocks and strap them down so the suspension hangs. Thats not a topic for this conversation.

Using a commercial towing company, yea, I'd do what others suggest and closely watch where they put those big hooks to ensure no brake lines get crushed.


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