Storage Mechanism For Roadmaster Tow Bar When Not In Use

Question:

I have a Roadmaster tow bar on a motorhome and the tow bar was folded and no car was being towed. I was driving the motorhome and for an unknown reason the tow bar fell to the road surface and was dragged for many miles. The passenger in a passing car alerted me to this issue. One sliding bar driver side was significantly damaged along with the two cables and electrical connection. I put the latch back on and returned the arms to the folded configuration. Approximately 75 miles later the failure occurred again when the passenger in a passing car alerted me. This time I tied the latch with a piece of rope, folded the tow bar and drove 10 miles to my home. I went to the Roadmaster factory in Vancouver and was told the tow bar could not be salvaged. I purchased a R-bar which I understand to be a re-built tow bar. My question is how do I secure the latch to prevent the same issue from reoccurring? There is no bumper on the motorhome. Do you have a drawing or photo to show how to secure the latch when the tow bar is in the folded position? Thank you

asked by: Mike M

Expert Reply:

I am not sure what model Roadmaster tow bar you had attached to your motorhome, but those with a folding design like what you described will use a built-in storage latch to secure it in the folding position. When in this position, there should be no issues with it coming unattached while driving. It's possible that the latching mechanism on your particular unit was damaged or faulty, as this is not a common issue.

I have attached a video demonstration on the Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain Tow Bar # RM-522. At around the 30 second mark you can see the folding design and latch operation in action.

expert reply by: Chris R