Troubleshooting a Roadmaster Sterling Towbar with a Stuck Arm

Updated 07/13/2012 | Published 07/12/2012

Question:

Both arms will extend and lock. However, the right side will not retract into the housing for storage. It retracts approximately 1 inch and then binds up. It can be pulled back out into the locked position for towing. Is this a repairable condition or must I just use it as is? Thoughts or comments??

asked by: Lee

Expert Reply:

The first thing you should do is check the bar with a straight-edge to determine if it is bent. If you determine that it is straight you will need to disassemble it and clean it.

There is a nut on the forward end by the pivots, and a keeper assembly that installs with circlips at the lever. I would recommend you take pictures as you disassemble it so that you will know how it reinstalls. Next step is to clean it like you never want to clean it again. Next, you will want to reassemble it and lube with silicone.

expert reply by: Jameson C