Bus Tow Hitch

[ghiastein]

I was thinking of making a tow hitch for a VW Bus before I purchased one. I have determined that the 1969-1970 Bus is for me. Knowing this the front axle assembly stays the same and I have one in my garage to play with. So what I want to do is to build a new tow hitch by modifying my existing plans for my Ghia Hitch. Here is my plans for my Ghia Hitch.





Now remember that the Bus weights about double the Ghia and the Ghia Hitch worked fine to pull the Ghia.

Can anyone think of bracing or gussets to help with strengths or design ideas to modify my current design?

I will keep you informed with what I come up with.

[Ruffuss]

AJ, I would add gussets to all right angles, like #4 to 6 and #4 to 5 and #4 to 10 and #8 to 3 and #7 to 5 etc. etc. It is better to over do it then have it come loose. Is # 10 going to long enough to clear your bumper/ front brush guard/spare tire, etc.? It may not hurt to add a pair of #7's between #2 and the end, on #5 (for added support)(hitching point), so it rides straight and true. And tri-anglate between #3 and 5 and gusset it for the same reason. Later Kenn

[VDub63 ( Steven )]

Why does it need towed? I thought you were going to drive it. ;D Or are you just over board at work again?

[ghiastein]

I saw a tow bar for a Bus today on the samba and thought to would be so easy to just throw the hitch in the truck. Drive to somewhere and pick up a Bus. Instead of borrowing a heavy trailer and hauling it empty.

After reviewing my plans I have came up with an idea to customize my current tow bar to adapt it to haul my narrow beam Ghia a stock beetle and a Bus. I need to take measurements tonight.

[ghiastein]

Ok after more measurements and time this is what I came up with. I am planning on just modifying my existing tow hitch with interchangeable and adjustable axle carriers. My original tow hitch is shown in blue with gussets added for strength. With the new interchangeable axle carriers shown in gray. My first picture shows the modification for a stock Beetle or Ghia. The axle carriers are adjustable for different lengths for front bumper clearances.



The next one shows the modification to tow my stock 1970 Bus. once again the axle carriers are adjustable for bumper clearances.



Once again check over the pictures and look for flaws or strength issues. Please post your ideas or comments. Thanks

[Ruffuss]

Looks good from this angle. The only thing I can see is maybe additional gussets at right angles. Later Kenn