Tow bars are exposed to weather and road spray, as well as wear and tear from normal use. Regular care and maintenance of the tow bar assembly will help to assure continued proper performance.

Frequently clean the tow bar and safety cables. First, wipe away heavy build up. Next, wash the assembly using mild soap and water. Dry the tow bar and safety cables using a soft cloth.

Perform a monthly inspection on the tow bar assembly for loose or worn parts and replace as necessary. Carefully examine the base plate on both the RV and the towing vehicle for cracked welds or rusted bolts. Pull out the pins and study the surface to confirm that the pins are in good working order. Tow bar pins will wear from use and are also easy to misplace. It is recommended to carry extra pins in the RV toolbox. Snap the pins into place to determine if they are still secure. Examine both rubber boots for any sign of a hole or a tear.

Use a quality grade silicone lubricant to maintain the tow bar assembly. Avoid grease applications as they will only work to attract dirt and debris. Apply silicone lubricant at all joints one to two times per year.

Once the tow bar assembly is connected to the tow vehicle, perform a final inspection to assure all connections are intact and both sides of the assembly are locked into place. Position the ignition key in the On position and put the transmission in neutral gear. If the tow vehicle is four-wheel drive, place the transfer case in Neutral. Run a light check before heading off down the road.

At each stop perform a visual roadside inspection to confirm the tow bar assembly is intact and the tow vehicle tires are in good working order.

Water can cause malfunction of the wires in a towing system. Occasionally inspect the ground wire for tight connections. Examine the wiring harness and repair any wiring connections that are loose or worn. Pay close attention to corrosion that may appear green in color, indicating a poor connection.

In addition to regular maintenance and inspection, proper use of the tow bar assembly will help to extend the component life. Mount the tow bar to ride level between the two vehicles. Be sure the towing vehicle has adequate braking capacity and refrain from putting the motor home in reverse while the tow vehicle is attached.