<VV> FC Tow bar/hitch

[Vairtec at optonline.net]

Rhys, first a small point of clarification:   Here in the States, at 
least, "tow bar" refers to an apparatus that one attaches to the 
front of a vehicle, so that vehicle may be towed behind 
another.  "Trailer hitch" is what you're seeking, in the US 
vernacular at least.

That said, your boat and trailer combination is a bit heavy for the 
Rampside, but it won't really be an issue as long as you are not 
undertaking extensive trailering trips.  The occasional jaunt to the 
lake or whatnot, and you'll be fine.  But if you're really planning 
to tow long distances and/or frequently, well, you may wish to 
re-think your choice of tow vehicle.

As for the installation of the hitch, there is a 
"how-to-reinforce-the-rear-bumper" tech tip in the original CORSA 
Tech Guide.  That modification, along with a hitch similar to Clark's 
offering, will work fine.

But, in my experience the weak link in all this is the clutch.  The 
stock Corvair clutch can easily be overwhelmed by the combined weight 
of the Rampside and trailer, leading to clutch chatter and shortened 
clutch life.  Careful driving can minimize the effects, but if the 
clutch starts to chatter when you add the weight of the trailer to 
the mix, well, you wind up having to choose between slipping the 
clutch mercilessly or shaking your teeth out on launch.  Only a 
"perfect" combination of clutch, flywheel, pressure plate, input 
shaft et al will solve this issue -- and good luck getting everything 
"perfect."

As a result, I've always been happier towing with Powerglides, but 
again, if you're careful and conservative, you'll do fine.

--Bob


Robert W Marlow
Vairtec at optonline.net