Page 15 - GMC Vintage RVing - Winter 2018

is going to tow it. Mention to him that there are some items that relate to towing the vehicle no matter what system is used that he should be aware of.14. Confirm with the tow vehicle driver that the tow vehicle has the capacity to lift a vehicle with a front grossaxle weight rating (GAWR) of 5000 pounds and tow a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 13,000 pounds.15. Confirm with the tow vehicle driver that the tow company is insured and is responsible for any damage suffered while the vehicle is under tow.16. Before the GMC Motorhome israised by the front wheels or put on a trailer, raise the rear suspension to the maximum height and place the system in hold. This is to greatly reduce the likelihood of the rear dragging at some point in the process.17. Before you depart under tow, go in the GMC Motorhome and make sure the hand brake is off.18. Before departing walk around the GMC and make sure all access doors are closed/secured and that there is sufficient clearance between the ground and any part of the GMC Motorhome.19. When you arrive at the shop make sure the rear suspension is still at the maximum height before the GMC Motorhome is unloaded from a flatbed if being towed in this manner.20 When you arrive at the shop ask if they have experience working on a 1973-1978 GMC Motorhome.21. Ask the shop if they have the GMC Motorhome Maintenance Manual, Parts Book, and special tools for a 1973-1978 GMC Motorhome.22. Ask the shop how long it will be before they can look at your GMC Motorhome.23. If you are unhappy with responses from the shop call the tow service provider and advise them. Ask if you can be taken to a facility that does have experience, manuals, and tools!All the above may sound pedantic but if “something happens” and you wind up in court you can easily demonstrate that you did your best to inform the tow service provider, the tow company, and the repair shop of any special requirements for towing a GMC and repairing it.At the end of the day it may all come to naught, but at least you will not kick yourself for not doing something you could/should have!Note: Please be aware that when the Maintenance Manual was written wrecker and towing equipment was somewhat different than what is available today. Therefore, the method explained in the Maintenance Manual is what should be used if the towing company does not have recently developed equipment. However, in the 21st century many companies have trucks with extended underlift L-arms capable of raising the GMC’s front end without harm to the engine, drivetrain or steering components and without the use of the wooden blocks and chains as shown. Further, at the time the Maintenance Manual was printed flat-bed carriers were also not as common as can be found today. The warning to not lift and tow from the rear of the coach is still very valid and should not be allowed. Towing the GMC from the rear wheels WILL result in transmission being damaged!WINTER 2018 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL 15Maintenance Manual X-7525 – Page 0-5