Specifications: rated 4,000 lbs receiver hitch rated 6,000 lbs stainless steel 2" ball rated 4,000 lbs tow bar two 1/4" steel plates tie-down adapters, custom built 5/8" bolt through tie-down hole interconnected tow wiring Chevy G30 van, Coachman conversion 350 CID, fuel injected, V8 electronic shifted automatic transmission Anti-lock brakes tow Prius running in "D" Any questions? Bob Wilson
So the Prius will be turned on and in "D"? Just wondering how that works without damaging anything. Looks like your ready to leave right now. When do you plan on leaving? See you at Hybridfest!
In honor of Doug Schafer, I'm calling it Pike's Peak extended. We have reservations at an RV park July 18-21. See you then. Bob Wilson
Bob, Sorry, I don't get it? Really in D???? I must be missing something here (I have soooooooooo much left to learn) - but I will see you at HF. I also have booked the 17th - 21st at a park too. Just debating whether to let go of my hotel reservation yet. Let's see, will I have more fun at the park or the hotel? I so need a vacation. Yesterday I was so bad when I got out of work I was flooring it half way to my physical therapy appointment with A/C going but couldn't even manage to get bad mpg! 49.6 for the trip according to SG. I guess pulse & glide is ingrained pretty well.
The transaxle oil pump is driven by the engine so it has to run from time to time. But with the tow bar, after the battery charges, it looks like the vehicle drag falls way off. But I may do some experiments with flipping into "N" with the engine running and the battery fully charged. This may further reduce vehicle drag and improve overall efficiency. Bob Wilson
That rig looks totally solid, Bob. I seem to recall that you would arrange to watch the Davies miniscanner from the front vehicle (SOC etc)? There are web sites listing trailering laws of the different states. Some on your route may require braking on trailers (any kind) above a weight threshhold. I reckon enforcement on the issue is lax (having heedlessly towed vehicles cross-country before) but at least one could make an informed decision. Prius may want to wear a bra?
