My Tow Bar is More That 3" Out Of Level - Could This Cause The Arms To Not Lock>

Updated 04/25/2024 | Published 04/15/2024

Question:

I have a etrailer SD non binding tow bar with a blue ox base plate on a 2012 Fiat 500. I pulled the car around the block and discovered one of the arms didn’t lock. I also found that I have greater than 3” of rise from the car to the motorhome. Is it possible that the extra height would cause the arm to not lock. I have checked each arm and there is no damage and both lock when disconnected. I have ordered a adapter from etrailer to make the connection level.

asked by: Phil

Expert Reply:

Hello Phil. So, yes, the tow bar being out of level can definitely cause the arms to not lock, among other problems. Anything greater than 3" out of level is not recommended for this reason. Fortunately, it sounds like nothing on your etrailer SD Tow Bar # e47ZR was damaged, so once you get your adapter you should be good to go.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Phil

4/15/2024

Thank you Jesse. I’ll give it another shot after the adapter arrives. Phil

Jesse M.

4/15/2024

@Phil Sounds good. Don't hesitate to reach out if anything else comes up.

Phil M.

4/22/2024

Hi Jesse, I installed the drop hitch and now the tow bar is level. I still have a problem getting 1 side to lock. The bars slide easily and lock when pulled out by hand. I can connect 1side and push the car back until it locks. After connecting the other side I pull the MH forward and turn slightly to try and lock it. It doesn’t seem to lock. I will try again this weekend to see if I can get it to lock. Phil

Jesse M.

4/23/2024

@PhilM Both arms should lock in the same way. Pulling the motorhome forward should be all it takes. It sounds like you are doing it right already though. Try pulling forward, then while doing so pull briefly left then briefly right. This should extend and lock out each arm of the tow bar. Please do try again and let me know what happens.

Philip

4/24/2024

@JesseM - Thank you!