automatic tranny disconnect?

[str8strm]

we have a 1985 345 and would like to tow a 1986 mustang 5.0 automatic. What do we have to do to avoid buring up the tranny?

[swebster]

str8strm,
A couple of things. You should contact Remco Towing products about transmission disconnects and tranny lube systems made for RV'ers who flat tow automatics.

But, having said that I think the Mustang is too heavy for your 345 to safely tow. I think the curb weight on the Mustang is around 3400 lbs and the maximum tow capacity for the 345 is only 2000 lbs. Many people safely tow lighter cars such as Saturns which weight in around 2400 lbs but going 1400 lbs over the limit would really be a problem.

One more thing to consider, anything over 2000 lbs requires a supplemental breaking system in most states so you will need to look into a Brake Buddy or the like as well.

While there is no definitive answer on why the 345 is so limited in it's two capacity. The general consensus around here is that while the base P30 Chassis with the 454 can pull the weight itself, the frames extensions and long rear overhang on the 345's severaly limits the capacity in a turn or under breaking.

Having said all of this, on our return trip from Florida over spring break I saw an old Itasca Class A towing a Nissan Pickup truck with everything but the kitchen sink in the bed, which was in turn towing a boat, also loaded to the gunnals with "stuff". Clearly a snowbird returning home with no regard for their own safety or the safety of others around them.

[overlander63]

Originally Posted by str8strm

we have a 1985 345 and would like to tow a 1986 mustang 5.0 automatic. What do we have to do to avoid buring up the tranny?

The trans in the Mustang, or the one in the MoHo?
Like Steven said, it is not advisable to do it at all, but if you are determined to do it, the simplest and cheapest way is to remove the driveshaft from the Mustang, and put a cap in the output shaft of the transmission so fluid doesn't leak out.
If you are talking about the trans in the MoHo, you should already have a transmission cooler installed in the cooling line. A larger one would be a good idea to help your trans keep its cool if you are going to tow the larger car.

[str8strm]

thanks for the information our other option may be to buy an VW thing--we just don't need another car Debbie

[overlander63]

Originally Posted by str8strm

thanks for the information our other option may be to buy an VW thing--we just don't need another car Debbie

Things are cool, although they are rather expensive to find one in good shape. You may have to chip in a few bucks along with your Mustang, to get one. Two others I see regularly behind MoHos are Geo trackers, and Geo Metros. They are more plentiful, although not as individual as the Thing.