Leaving tow bar connected to MH

I always store it in the garage. Like anything, prolonged exposure to elements will shorten it's life. By how much, I have no idea. But I paid way too much for my ready elite bars to let them sit outside. Nevermind they might grow legs and walk off. Even when camped I put them in a bin. I have been accused of being fairly meticulous though.

Years ago, when we bought our 96 Southwind, the original owner left the tow bar attached to the receiver. I had no need for a tow bar so I left it in place.
We traveled quite a bit with the bar attached and folded up. It caused no problems and was not in the way.
When I finally removed it, I needed some penetrating oil and a big hammer.
The bar insert and receiver were in good condition.
If you are going to leave it attached, make sure it's lubed well.
Other than that you should have no problems.

RRTom wrote:
How many of you leave the tow bar on the motor home after you return from an outing? What are the possible cons?

the towbar goes on before we leave for AZ in January and stays on till we put the MH away in November. been doing that since we began towing in 2003. no problems.

I am a full timer and left mine on for the past 16 years.

I spray it with anti-corrosion oil and cover it.

I installed my tow bar 12 years ago and the only time it's been removed was when I switched coaches 7 years ago.

Ed C wrote:
I spray it with anti-corrosion oil and cover it.

When you spray with anti-corrosion oil, do you spray the entire tow bar or just pivot points and bar that goes into the receiver on the motor home?

My joints and bar are sprayed with silicon lube as recommended which is less dirt attracting. Attached for 16 years with a lock which keeps honest folks honest. In recent years I've been leaving the car cross bar attached as well.

gbopp wrote:
We traveled quite a bit with the bar attached and folded up. It caused no problems and was not in the way.
When I finally removed it, I needed some penetrating oil and a big hammer.

Exact same thing happened on my first class A. I now use a receiver bike rack on my class B and I lube it well because I leave it on for 10 weeks in the winter but then pull it off when home.

Dave

The cons are:
Weather exposure if the RV is stored outside
Legs.. If it not bolted on and locked (As in with a key) it the can grow legs .