Towing with an 'A' Frame??

Towing with an 'A' Frame??

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Discussion

atomfun

Original Poster:

911 posts

233 months

Friday 11th September 2009
quotequote all
Hi guys

I'm looking for ways of towing my beloved Atom behind my Zafira! No one on the Atom forum has used one of the 'A' frame towing jigs hence my post here!

I've spoken with the manufacturer of these frames and they say there's no reason why it won't work - I guess they would say that, but are they right?

Four questions:

1. Anyone used one of these frames with their Caterham?
2. Do they work?
3. Will they damage/mark at the attachment point?
4. Will it be legal?

Here's a pic of what I'm on about.



Cheers

John

atomfun

Original Poster:

911 posts

233 months

Friday 11th September 2009
quotequote all
There's a lot of info on the legalities of this towing method and I 'think' it's legal. My main concern is marking the steering components where the 'A' frame attaches

I don't think mileage will be counted if the ignition is off smile and I'm not considering 1000's of miles anyway.

John

atomfun

Original Poster:

911 posts

233 months

Saturday 12th September 2009
quotequote all
Thanks for all the replies guys, makes interesting reading.

Yes, I'd prefer a trailer but, I don't have any room to park it up so it's a non=started for me. The other reason for considering the 'A' frame is convenience. It's small, light and can be stashed away in the boot of most cars.

Of course I'd want it to be safe & legal and some have raised the issue of safety BUT, have any heard of horror stories or is it just that you 'feel' their a little unsafe? Personally, I've never heard of any horror stories. No doubt there'll be the odd few but that goes for trailers too.

Lubrication of the gearbox is a good point to raise. When I was considering an 'A' frame a few years back, I did ask the factory about this and they said it wouldn't be a problem. So if I knew I could attach one without marking the suspension/steering/bodywork, at under £200 I might try.

I'll keep you posted.

John

atomfun

Original Poster:

911 posts

233 months

Wednesday 16th September 2009
quotequote all
Hi Jef, thanks for the reply from someone that's done it smile

Can you tell me how the 'A' frame attaches to the car? As I've said, I'm concerned about marking the powder coating at the attachment point. What is the attachment point?

Cheers

John

atomfun

Original Poster:

911 posts

233 months

Sunday 20th September 2009
quotequote all
As a trailer suitable for an Atom is considerably wider than the Atom itself, I definately don't have room for a trailer.

I don't do many track days now, maybe the odd one at Llandow and that's just 30 mins away.

The Atom is my ONLY car and has been for the last year, I drive it EVERYDAY and in all weathers so getting cold or wet isn't the issue - I have heated clothing but rarely need it.

The reason for considering an 'A' frame is quite simple. We often go away and the Atom isn't really practicle for a family & luggage smile An 'A' frame would be very convenient if I wanted to tow part or all/way and use the Atom when I get there. The 'A' frame just folds up and can be stored in the car when not in use. It's just for convenience with little expense and just exploring the viability.

John