towing my 1984 tercel 4wd

[gotama]

i dont like the idea of towing my car (i might just get a car trailer )but if i could pick up either end with a tow dolly which end would be preferred?

[Highlander]

If you're towing for a short distance (~<25-30 miles) then you should be fine towing on a dolly from the front (front wheels up). According to Petros (I think), if you tow too long without disconnecting the rear drive shaft, you run the risk of damaging the transfer case bearings. I've towed one with a dolly, but less than 20 miles, plus it was a parts car-but no damage done anyway.

[Petros]

I have flat towed the car on all four wheels for many miles, but just to get project Tercels home. These were popular for pulling behind RVs as an extra car, and I do not know the consequence of doing it many miles. there is an oil pump in the transfer case to keep the gears lubed, if the main shaft is not turning it might make the gears run dry. Flat towing would allow the main shaft to turn I think, but not sure about. If you put the front wheels on a dolly, than might be best to unbolt the rear diff from the driveshaft (hang the driveshaft), and than allow the rear to free wheel.

[gotama]

thanks i figured only short distances..i want to take this car home to bc canada from mexico cause i love the freeking thing!

[Petros]

why dont you just drive it, it would take the same amount of fuel if you tow it or drive anyway.