Arm on Blue Ox Aladdin Tow Bar is Not Automatically Locking In
Updated 06/11/2014 | Published 06/10/2014
Question:
I have a Blue Ox Aladdin tow bar. On my last few trips I have had trouble getting one of the expandable arms to lock in. I have to push my tow car back hard while pulling up on the lever. Is there any service that I can complete to avoid this. It used to lock in place both arms but now I have to pull up on the drivers side arm.
asked by: Jimmy W
Expert Reply:
Tow bars like the Blue Ox Aladdin require regular maintenance to keep working smoothly. It is likely there is dirt build up inside of the arm in question and it is gumming up the mechanism. Below are the recommended maintenance steps from Blue Ox:
This tow bar requires periodic maintenance. It will be subjected to road dirt and weather during use.
The following tips will help maintain the condition of your new tow bar.
1. Keep the tow bar covered when not in use, on or off of the towing vehicle. This will cut down on
the dirt build up on the legs and joints of the tow bar. A # BX8875 tow bar cover is recommended.
2. Periodically clean the entire surface of the tow bar with a mild soap and water solution. Wipe dry
with a clean cloth.
3. Check for cracked welds and repair any loose, worn or damaged bolts, rubber boots or cap plugs.
4. Approximately once per year or if it is difficult to move the legs in and out, remove the small cable
ties holding the rubber boots to the legs and slide the boots back. Clean off the inner legs with a
silicone spray or brake cleaner. Apply a light coat of multipurpose grease to each leg to ensure a
smooth operation. Secure each boot back in place with an 8 inch UV rated nylon cable tie.
Note: Only the inner legs require grease for normal operation. All other tow bar joints rely on self
lubricating washers, if these joints become to stiff clean as directed with soap and water.
5. Before each trip check for movement in the baseplate. Grab the baseplate tabs and move up and
down, making sure the baseplate is still secure to the vehicle’s frame.
If the tow bar’s legs do not operate smoothly or the joints become excessively loose, take your tow bar to an authorized Blue Ox Dealer or call Blue Ox Customer Care for repairs.
It is also possible that the arm is bent. If you remove the arm and can tell that it is bent, or even suspect it may be bent, do not use it. It will need to be repaired or replaced.
If you suspect the latch handle needs to be replaced use # BX84-0178.
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