How to Check a Roadmaster Blackhawk Tow Bar for Damage After Backing Up

Question:

Freeway accident cause me to have to backup not sure if that may have damage my blackhawk2 10.000lb, What do I look for in this case?

asked by: MAURICE B

Expert Reply:

If you were backing up in a straight line and slowly then the tow bar is most likely fine. The problem is the vehicle wheels can turn and scrub the ground or jackknife the vehicle so you would want to give the vehicle a good once over as well.

To determine if there is any damage to the tow bar you will want to check the telescoping and locking operation of the arms. If the arms do not move in and out as easily as they did before they may be bent. You will need to remove the arms and roll them on a flat surface to see if they are bent (like you would with a pool cue).

I would also use this opportunity to clean and lubricate the tow bar with silicone based lubricant.

Other damage would be more obvious; stress to the tow bar can result in fractures, bent items, and should be obvious. But less obvious small things could be overlooked and turn into bigger problems down the road. It may be worth the time to have a local shop that sells and installs tow bars take a look at it.

expert reply by: Michael H