Tow Bars

We've had a Demco tow bar for 10+ years.

Twice, even though it was working OK, I've sent it to Demco. I paid the freight, and they worked it over, replacing some parts, updating the configuration, etc. , and shipped it back to me in a week or two at no charge.

I appreciate the way they stand behind their product.

Also, their primary business is making agricultural equipment for farmers. That stuff gets much much harder use than any tow bar, and makes me feel confident in their ability to engineer products that can stand the test of time.

I guess I really didn't answer your question - If you don't feel like it's the same as it was when new, then have it checked out. I suspect that since you've asked the question, something in your mind is telling you that factory inspection and perhaps repair would be a good idea.

I suggest you send it back for a check any time you suspect it is not quite "like it used to be". If anything seems not as tight as it was etc. I have had Blue Ox look at mine several times over the years while at rallies where they were vendors. Each time they checked it over , replaced some spacer washers etc. This past summer I watched as the tech started taking mine apart and as he extended one arm it was readily apparent that there was no "tune up" going to make this like new again so I replaced it. I think Blue Ox recommends that you replace theirs around 75,000-80,000 miles. Mine was a little beyond that.

I did a maintenance kit on my Roadmaster Falcon II @ 40,000 mi.

I have had a Demco tow bar for 8 years, when ever it fails to lock I clean and lubricate it. Also Demco has an online manual that tells you how to disassemble and clean it also. I had to do this about 4 years ago when cleaning the bars would no longer work.

I take my Demco tow bar apart once each year and inspect for any damage. I then clean everything and lube things to insure that it is working fine. As long as everything feels tight and shows no sign of wear, it should last as long as my toad. The tow bar is in a location where it will pick up a lot of dirt and debris as you are going down the road.
If you don't feel confident in your mechanical abilities I would go with the manufacturer's recommendation on service intervals.

I was told at the Blue Ox factory by a tech that you should keep all the joints lubed and tight.. If there's play there's wear.. He gave me a hand full of the nylon washers that are used in the joints and said to replace them as they show wear.. Ours is 8 years old and about 50,000 miles of towing, still looks and feels good.. Mike Mathews..

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