Reading all these posts (sometimes) gives me the shudders. I was (at one time) a recovery mechanic, (Armour and wheeled),
We (as a unit(and I)) NEVER but never used Equipment I did not the know the USE for which it was intended or NOT Known to me. Applies to ALL lifting winching and towing devices.
Who read my addendum (in this post?) on "driving down hills". ('the only way to keep out of trouble'.(is NOT to get into it in the first place".)
So, WHY use (RISK!) a piece of (unknown spec) equipment as potentially DANGEROUS as an Incorrect Towing device?.
"should I, could I, mebb'e, perhaps!". NO. that's it. non negotiable! NO.
The device FAILS, you have a MONSTER on the tow, the monster F off on it's own, You want to imagine any further??
For the GRIEF possible in this scenario, FOR ALL concerned, for...years to come!.
"Oh HOW I just Wish I hadn't"...TOO LATE!.............(only) know you know, "oh"! "It AIN'T strong enough"...Perhaps it was NOT? meant for that application.
Insurance? AND consequences, Don't even go THERE.
So, IF this post prevents even ONE "newbie", unqualified, or inexperienced operator (in our hobby) Causing or having a SERIOUS (and preventable?) Mishap. OR ANYONE else for that matter. well, More than..O.K. ok.
My M62 Wrecker crane truck. Carries.
Medium V Tow Bar. (LONG)PINS CHANGED every 2 years. IF used.
Heavy V Tow Bar (SHORT) DITTO.
Heavy V Hollybone Tow bar. HEAVY VEHICLE - TANK. And Ditto.#
Chains blocks and Pulleys, ALL SWL marked, and checked.
Speed when Towing? NEVER 50-55!! (never mind the 'heavy' stuff)'.
LIGHT towing 2000 rpm. That's it.
My (more than) 3/4 penne'th. O.K. Be safe Folks, and enjoy your possessions, PROTECT yourselves OTHERS, and the hobby.