<VV> Towing Stuff -Dune Buggies!

[Dale Dewald]

Hello Gary,

Considering the light weight of the buggies I do not think there will be 
an issue with engine power or cooling as long as the main engine shrouds 
are in place to insure proper air flow.  I doubt your buggy has a 
heater, but even if it does the lower shrouds could be removed (if not 
already) for a summer trip. The FC transmission with cooler should be 
problem free.  If we were to consider that each buggy actually weighed 
more, say 2000 lbs each, with you and your brother: 2000lbs + 2000lbs + 
600lbs = 4600lbs, then this is equal to the listed GVW rating of an FC.  
The aerodynamic drag coefficient of the buggy is probably a bit more 
than an FC, but frontal area is quite a bit less, so wind load is not an 
issue.  My only concern would be brakes.  Have you upgraded from the 
stock VW braking system? Also, what gear ratio do you have and rear tire 
size are you running?

Dale Dewald
Hancock, MI

On 5/18/2013 12:00, Gary Berry wrote:
>     I have a chance of driving FULSGLD (ManxVair dunebuggy) across the US
> this October with a bunch of other buggy folks. FULSGLD has a FC powerglide
> in it with a stock 110hp engine (although I have 140hp sitting in the
> wings). Not sure of the diff ratio. My question has to do with towing. I
> would like to take my brother and tow his buggy behind FULSGLD and am
> wondering what other's thinking might be on this with regards to the
> Corvair's ability to do this (assuming the drivetrain is in good
> condition)? Both buggies weigh about the same (but we will be in the seats
> which will add about 600lbs), but not sure exactly what that weight is
> (1500lbs maybe?). Will be traveling 500 miles a day for 5 days with an
> average speed of 62mph according to the organizers. Thanks for any tips or
> hints.