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Topic: Finally got TOAD setup and tested (Read 556 times) previous topic - next topic

Finally got TOAD setup and tested

2023 Chevy Equinox - Note: Manual is WRONG for flat tow setup. GM has updated this procedure. See following post for update.
Air Force One Braking
Blue Ox tow bar
Battery disconnect latching relay
Tow Hitch installed on Car for bike rack.

Really not too bad to do this install. A lot of work since the car has to be dismantled at both ends to install everything. Took extra time because I solder every connection and do not use crimp connections. Had to use spade lugs on the diodes for the lights but I just covered them with silicone so they do not come apart. The brake cylinder did not stay on brake arm that well. I made something that would stay put with repeated use.
Jeff & Carolyn
1999 36ft. U320 Foretravel

Re: Finally got TOAD setup and tested

Reply #1 –
 
The new tow instructions are:
 
To dinghy tow:
1. Position the front of the vehicle being towed—with all four wheels on the ground—behind the towing vehicle.
2. Secure it to the towing vehicle.
3. Put the vehicle in N (Neutral).
4. Shut engine off (vehicle will remain in accessory mode).
5. Release the Electric Parking Brake (EPB), if applied.
6. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal connector from the 12-volt battery.
7. Close the hood of the vehicle.
 
Once the destination is reached:
Shift the vehicle to P (Park).
Reconnect the negative (-) terminal connector to the 12-volt battery.
Start the engine and let it idle for more than three minutes before driving the vehicle.
Caution
For AWD vehicles only, a lubrication cycle is recommended after 2700 km (1,700 miles) of recreational dinghy towing. Drive the vehicle in AWD up to 40 km/h (25 mph) for a minimum of 30 seconds to distribute lubrication throughout the rear drive module and protect the system for additional dinghy towing.
 
 
Jeff & Carolyn
1999 36ft. U320 Foretravel

Re: Finally got TOAD setup and tested

Reply #2 –
An interesting note... The Navy required crimped connections for their fire control switchboards we made for them years ago and no soldered wires. NASA is the same today. Just be sure it's a proper crimp using a calibrated crimper for the specific lug.
Tyson
2004 295 3610 WTFS
2010 Honda CR-V
Motorcade #18344
AA1DS

Re: Finally got TOAD setup and tested

Reply #3 –
Quote from: Frontier Camping –
An interesting note... The Navy required crimped connections for their fire control switchboards we made for them years ago and no soldered wires. NASA is the same today. Just be sure it's a proper crimp using a calibrated crimper for the specific lug.

A properly installed connector is 110% strength of the wire. Dont know if I believe it but they are more than a 100% verified. Biggest new advantage is the availability to environmental connectors. Heat shrink tubing with hot glue inside. Use some variation on every connection if possible. Prevents corrosion and provides a strain relieve. Although soldering does provide a good connection there are many documented failures just past the solder point from vibration. With the shrink tubing probably wouldnt be an issue. And yes I do solder battery connections which is incorrect,  :facepalm: