Backing up with a tow bar
 

When I remove the engine from my truck, I would like to roll the truck out of the garage and power wash the engine bay. I have a list of things I want to do with the engine and the engine bay while the engine is out.

When it comes time to put the truck back into the garage, which is uphill, I was thinking of putting this tow bar on it and use my SUV to back the truck into the garage. I understand these trucks track fine when going forward. Should I expect it to be a different story and big trouble to back it up?

It is a 1969 CST/10 pickup with power steering and manual brakes.

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

I don't know; I don't think I've ever backed up with a tow bar.

I don't think it will be too bad since it's just a one-shot deal. I imagine you will be going slow; you would be able to stop and straighten it up with the floor jack or by steering the wheels of the towed vehicle.

I have a lag bolt in the post in front of my repair stall. That allows me to pull any disabled vehicle up in the garage with the come along.

K

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

I did that with mine. Not to bad as long as it is going straight back. Helps if you have a second person steering the truck while you are backing up.

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

Might tie up steering wheel like the wrecker guys do if you by yourself.

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

I would have someone behind the steering wheel making sure it tracks.

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

Either of the last two replies are great, if you don't have someone to help. Backing with a tow bar (or even towing forward when turning sharp corners) has to be done carefully.

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

Are there any special considerations or problems I could have with unpowered power steering?

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

It shouldn't be a problem with the steering. As said earlier, you will need someone behind the wheel or tie the wheel down. I tow a Jeep behind our motorhome and if I back up far I have to do one of the above.

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

It should work quite well because the tow bar is a solid connection allowing the push vehicle to become an extension of the non-motor vehicle. I'm doing the same maneuver with one of my 72's but instead of a truck with a tow bar I use a Ford 8N tractor with a 3-point boom. I have also used a snatch block anchored to the shop floor and use a winch. A positive connection on a sloped or inclined surface is probably the safest way to move that truck. If you don't have a co-pilot to help steer, a couple of ratchet straps will hold the wheel. Tow bar should work and work well, just take it slow and easy...

Re: Backing up with a tow bar
 

The shorter the wheelbase on your tow rig the better in this situation. I've backed up cars on tow dollies with my S10 Blazer. I would not even attempt it with my Burban.
One other note if you have power steering you need to loop the hoses or make other provisions to catch the fluid.