Drawbars

2710Fan · Mar 20, 2001

First timer here...although I've been skulking around learning for months from you folks.
What is the preferred method of pulling (Let's say the car is stuck in the mud, or you have to move the odd log) with the drawbar? Do most people have a shackle, hook or just a trailer ball on the drawbar? What are the safety concerns?
Thanks

cowboydoc · Mar 20, 2001

I just hook up a clevis to the drawbar and then use a chain or a tow strap. With a car I usually use a tow strap as it's easier on the car. Make sure your connections are solid because the danger is the connection coming undone or the chain breaking and smacking you in the head or something. Make sure that the chain or strap you use is rated for the job you're doing.

Thomas · Mar 20, 2001

I use grab hooks and the shorter the hitch from the object to the tractor seem to work the best.
I hitch to the draw bar tongue around a 1" grade 8 bolt w/a slip hook...and putter slow.

Thomas..NH /w3tcompact/icons/wink.gif

BMW · Mar 20, 2001

Another safety tip is to lay a jacket or folded blanket on the middle of your chain or strap. That way if it breaks at one end or the other, it will "bend" at that point and won't THWACK you in the head or trash what you are trying to pull. I don't have any first hand experience with breaking chains but I read it somewhere.