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Posted by: Kansas 914 Sep 24 2015, 01:55 PM

David at RennenMetal made a great product. What are people using now since he doesn't sell them anymore?

http://www.rennenmetal.com/manuals/towbar.pdf

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Sep 24 2015, 02:11 PM

Rennenmetal is not making stuff any more? That blows.

Zach

Posted by: 914itis Sep 24 2015, 03:19 PM

Got one from them about 7 months ago

Posted by: Chris914n6 Sep 24 2015, 03:37 PM

Lucky you, maybe it was the last one.

Thank you for visiting RennenMetal.com. We are no longer accepting orders.

I'm not excited to make myself one.

Posted by: jimkelly Sep 24 2015, 03:44 PM

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=47137

Posted by: Chris914n6 Sep 24 2015, 04:34 PM

That thread was 2006-2009. Not sure what you are trying to say?

Posted by: pvollma Sep 24 2015, 08:29 PM

Back in the 1990's, I flat-towed my 914 GT-3 car using a universal towbar. The bar was hinged at the V, allowing it to be adjusted to fit the distance between the two mounting brackets that were located in the space for the fog lights. In the attached picture, the mounting brackets are behind the cover plates (needed every bit of aerodynamic help I could get).

Posted by: Mike Bellis Sep 24 2015, 09:07 PM

I tried to find a solution but could not. I then found s complete setup at a swap meet but the mounting bracket was home brew. My car was/is too low for it to bolt on so I cut off the bits I needed and fabricated my own.

Rough




Finished. Shackles in the brackets as tow hooks when not connected...



The tow bar itself is still available as it's just a super beetle bar.

Posted by: RobW Sep 25 2015, 04:59 AM

Here in CA flat towing a 914 requires supplemental brakes. I ultimately gave up after thinking it through...

Posted by: Mikey914 Sep 25 2015, 11:07 AM

I've flat towed all the way to Tahoe without any issues. I love the Rennmetal bar. If it's not available I would look at doing these just because they are so stout, and an excellent way to move a 914 (assuming it's got all 4 wheels). Bolts right into the front suspension. Love it.

Posted by: JRust Sep 25 2015, 11:47 AM

I love my flat tow setup. Would be a good thing to have fabricated. I would love to do a setup like Mike's. Only problem for me is I'd need to add more bracing for it to be safe. I don't have a cage setup like Mike.

For flat towing the only downside is how much crap get's thrown up on your car. I had at least 6 new chips in my paint from my last trip . Need to figure out something to keep that from happening

Posted by: DBCooper Sep 25 2015, 11:51 AM

There's a clear plastic protectant, something like plasti-dip (or whatever that's called) that's easy to brush on and then later peel off. It's soft so debris bounces, doesn't chip. The RV guys use it on cars they tow around.

Posted by: Mikey914 Sep 25 2015, 12:16 PM

For Tahoe I literally used pallet wrap to cover the front of my car, worked awesome!

Posted by: montoya 73 2.0 Sep 25 2015, 12:58 PM

Whoa, supplemental brakes? So the tow car has to brake also, similar to a trailer with electric brakes?

Posted by: Kansas 914 Sep 25 2015, 05:05 PM

Mark,

Here is the text from David's website. I think he is still around - maybe he has drawing/plans?

Thank you for visiting RennenMetal.com. We are no longer accepting orders.

I've had 8 successful years of offering race recovery and towing solutions to sports car enthusiasts worldwide, but as my work load increases with my day job, less time is available to provide the service my clients deserve.

As of February 20, 2015, I have decided to suspend my RennenMetal business and spend my free time working on my next 914 V8 project, my new Westfield Seven and put some more miles on my Beck 550 Spyder. See you on the road and at the track.

Thank you. David Lee

Posted by: Mikey914 Nov 23 2016, 04:39 AM

These are being launched on the Black Friday sale. Product tested and even shipped out a few. Going into full productionWill have bars with mounting hardware available 2 weeks.

Pre buy price a low $88 each


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Posted by: Keyser Sose Nov 23 2016, 10:55 AM

Outstanding.

Posted by: Alphaogre Nov 23 2016, 11:09 AM

The only other variable to consider was that when you placed your order with rennmetal, you had to know what a-frame tow bars you will be using so the width of the brackets matches up.

I have used mine extensively in CA and had no issues. I just run the magnetic tail lights from HF.

http://www.harborfreight.com/12-volt-magnetic-towing-light-kit-63100.html

Posted by: Mikey914 Nov 25 2016, 02:09 PM

Set mine up for the EMPI Beetle tow bar. You could probably use an adjustable also.

Note on the Trailer lights from HF - Don't waste your money on the LED ones the wire is what fails way before the bulbs.

http://www.shop.914rubber.com/searchquick-submit.sc?keywords=tow

Posted by: flyloki Dec 14 2016, 08:12 PM

This bar looks fantastic.

I just emailed Mikey and he said he would extend the $88 Black Friday early bird price if we could get a 10 unit group buy going. I'm in for 1, throw your hat in the ring and lets get flat towin'!

Posted by: Brett W Dec 14 2016, 08:31 PM

Do you want a permanent solution or a temporary solution. I am selling the one I built to tow my car across the country. I worked beautifully. However my car has no front airdam when towing. Its not a permanent towing option that can be left on the car all the time.

http://s324.photobucket.com/user/Machinepro9/media/914/DSCN4813.jpg.html

http://s324.photobucket.com/user/Machinepro9/media/914/DSCN4815.jpg.html

http://s324.photobucket.com/user/Machinepro9/media/914/DSCN4814.jpg.html

http://s324.photobucket.com/user/Machinepro9/media/914/DSCN4821.jpg.html

Posted by: Rand Dec 14 2016, 08:31 PM

RichD put a setup together fairly recently. Maybe he'll chime in or someone has a link to it?

edit: Found this with a quick search:
http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=294007

Posted by: ConeDodger Dec 14 2016, 08:46 PM

You would never be pulled over for that. The only way it would even come up is if the cop wanted to do some 'piling on.' Or in other words, adding tickets on to a ticket.
I've flat towed my 914 using JCD914's setup from the East side of Sacramento all the way to Santa Rosa and back.

Posted by: 76-914 Dec 14 2016, 09:26 PM

If it matters; I'm putting together a complete materials, cost, ordering info, etc.to make your own tow bar for any one wanting to use Mikeys tow bar attachment. I'm waiting on a shipment to come in this week then I'll post it up after I complete it. It will be a Hell of a lot cheaper than the ~$135 I've found for a super beetle tow bar and won't require a bender.

Posted by: Mikey914 Dec 14 2016, 11:54 PM

These are coming out of powder tomorrow
We are still waiting for the spacers, but will send them just as soon as they are done. We used 2 different vendors for this as each is better for the size.

The bars will be in Tiger Drylac series 39 high floupolymer powder.
Pics tomorrow

Posted by: rdauenhauer Dec 15 2016, 08:15 AM

If you cant wait I have a limited run of this bar (approved by David formally of Rennemetal ) with all the assoc. hardware ...right now
The ad is in the Members Vendor section


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Posted by: Mikey914 Dec 15 2016, 11:08 AM

Just picked up


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Posted by: Mikey914 Dec 15 2016, 02:16 PM

Turned out nicely


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Posted by: Mikey914 Dec 15 2016, 02:24 PM

Unfortunately the spacers are not ready. They are a week or so out. We are sending the bars out. They can be mounted,but not used to tow without it. The spacers are easily added in. They sit in the front protective cap screw mount.
We are shipping out without these but they will show up in the mail in about 10 days.

Thanks all


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Posted by: 6freak Dec 15 2016, 02:58 PM

stone guard at your local RV shop slips right on the reciever and is adjustable to the hight you need it

Posted by: Mikey914 Dec 15 2016, 03:15 PM

I use the flexdam we make (without the rubber). you can't see it. 5 screws and it's off to tow.

These do attach to the front of the control are mounts so it effectively bolts into the "frame".


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Posted by: Mikey914 Dec 15 2016, 03:20 PM

Sorry I thought you said under. What I jave done while towing is to wrap the car in 24" stretch wrap on the front. Did this to Tahoe thought the car would be clean under, but dirty water did get under. It was cleaner than the rest of the car and no rock chips.

Posted by: wayner Dec 16 2016, 02:06 PM

I just saw this.
I'm too late for the group buy I assume?

Posted by: Mikey914 Dec 16 2016, 02:27 PM

Nope just in time for mine I'll run til the end of the year. The black Friday specials are rolling out the door today (some left yesterday). They are short the 2 mounting tubes that will follow in about 10 days (maybe less). The GB oned will ship complete in 10 days (or so).

Here you go


http://shop.914rubber.com/searchquick-submit.sc?keywords=tow

Posted by: 76-914 Dec 16 2016, 02:39 PM

I may now have a use for that Porsche Bra as a chip guard

Posted by: Mikey914 Dec 16 2016, 02:56 PM

It gets better here. And I'll tip my hand a little. We are working on a chip protector and a Car Jacket. I'm running so testing on mine this winter outside on my Blue car.
The tow protector will be an additional item that will be available. Some testing will be required, but this is where this is going. We will be making a chip guard bra for towing.



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Posted by: Kansas 914 Dec 16 2016, 02:58 PM

Posted by: Alphaogre Dec 16 2016, 04:39 PM

YES PLEASE!!!!!

Posted by: StratPlayer Mar 6 2017, 12:27 PM

I ordered the bar from 914 rubber, the super beetle tongue set up should arrive today. Going to get this installed next week.

Posted by: Kansas 914 Mar 6 2017, 12:29 PM

Jimmy - Let us know how it goes.

Posted by: StratPlayer Mar 6 2017, 01:04 PM

Mike I sure will, I have the LE valance up front and according to mikey {914 rubber} I shouldn't have to remove the valance. I will soon find out.

Posted by: 914werke Mar 6 2017, 01:06 PM

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Mar 7 2017, 09:40 AM

I've had lots of luck flat towing over the years, and one bad experience.
While flat towing Matt's gold 911, I ran over a nipple filler cap at a gas station, and it somehow knocked out the alignment on Matt's car, and the car instantly became un-towable. The front wheels started going from full lock left to full lock right and back again. Damndest thing I've seen. We had to spend several hours finding a tow dolly before the trip could continue and we could make the last 90 or so miles.

As long as the car is in good shape, its not an issue. If the alignment had gone out at speed though for some reason, well, I'm glad it didn't.

Zach

Posted by: dlee6204 Mar 7 2017, 10:10 AM

Mine does that too every time I make too tight of a turn at lower speeds. Usually in parking lots.

Posted by: StratPlayer Mar 7 2017, 10:45 AM

My tongue setup arrived. Today I will mount the safety chains.


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Posted by: markhoward Mar 7 2017, 11:35 AM

I'm in for one. BTW, I'm a new member but have been on Pelican for a while with same user name.

Posted by: jeffdon Mar 7 2017, 11:45 AM

Posted by: Mikey914 Mar 7 2017, 11:48 AM

Tow bars in stock ready to ship

http://shop.914rubber.com/914-Flat-tow-Bar-914FTB1.htm?categoryId=-1

Posted by: rdauenhauer Mar 7 2017, 11:53 AM

There are two products from two member /vendors represented in this thread.
The one from 914rubber which uses the super beetle bar & the one I produced which can use a drawtite or super beetle bar.

Same here
http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?s=&showtopic=294018&view=findpost&p=2396178
http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?s=&showtopic=294007&view=findpost&p=2396118

Posted by: Kansas 914 Mar 7 2017, 11:56 AM

Mark,

Has there been any progress on your making of the actual tow bar (hitch to car)? I thought I remember some conversation about you making that piece similar (but improved) to the EMPI product.

Posted by: StratPlayer Mar 7 2017, 05:20 PM

Update: Safety chains are mounted, found a great spot for my blackstar decal. Got my lights for on the road today.
BTW the chains don't come with the tongue.


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Posted by: Mikey914 Mar 7 2017, 08:10 PM

We had not made the tow bar as shipping on this seems to be a little spendy so we tried to keep it simple. The idea had been to allow it to be picked up locally for a source like harbor freight (same with the lights). Just like the ones Rich had pictured. Didn't make any sense to have to charge shipping if they could be obtained locally.

A note on the lights- don't upgrade to the LED ones (harbor freight) as the wire will wear out before the bulbs burn out.

I will personally go to check out the Walmart version tomorrow to see if it's substantial and confirm a direct fit.
They run $43.70 and about $20 in shipping if you can't pick up locally. At this price why re invent the wheel?

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Big-Roc-Tools-TDB-5000-Lbs-Adjustable-Bumper-Mount-Tow-Bar/34375347?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1148&adid=22222222227022747625&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=51799728551&wl4=pla-83202654431&wl5=9032904&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=112562587&wl11=online&wl12=34375347&wl13=&veh=sem


Also the lights are at harbor freight $14.99 I have bought at $9.99 on sale so you just have to watch.
http://www.harborfreight.com/12-volt-magnetic-towing-light-kit-63100.html

Sure I could buy them on sale and make a few bucks on ya, but with shipping you really do better to get locally.




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Posted by: Kansas 914 Mar 8 2017, 08:41 AM

Good information - thanks Mark.

I am anxious to see if the fit is good - cheers!

Posted by: forrestkhaag Mar 8 2017, 08:05 PM

I am in the final stages of installation of the 6 / so I have to tow my car from my shop to home in Laguna every day that I want to work on the tub w/o the motor.

I could summarize the California codes related to towing, short term public street storage ( 24 hours or less), long term 24 hour + public storage of vehicles w/o powertrain, Vehicles of public concern for hazards, visual impairments of vehicular vernacular,... well, you get the idea... lets leave that to the lame politicians and move on... literally.

What I did for towing of the 914 works great.

I fabricated two simple brackets that act as tow bar recievers. they are mounted in the front trunk area and take up no real useable area. My full sized spare remains in place.

My 914-6 oil cooler remains in place with its shroud and cooling fan beneath.

Front trunk storage remains fairly decent as 914's go, with all of this going on.

What works here is that you simply carry the tow bar yoke in the tow vehicle. To that you add the two inserts thru the front bumper of the 914 which binds the 914 frame to the tow vehicle. Add a dash of HFT tow lights and away you go.

The lovely Wife (or Dave) has all the comforts of luggage and stuff in the SUV and we have a 914 effortlessly tagging along to whatever drive is on the agenda.

This tow system is supplemented with the insertion of two driving lights on receiver bars wired as plug-ins to the factory fog light circuit. The fixtures hide the two square holes in the bumper and works cool to light up the forward road.

Then there is chrome..... We, that have black bumpers, rule!

Want pix? PM and I will show you the working detail if you want to see how this works for me.. but i am working daily on the 6 conversion...







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Posted by: Rand Mar 8 2017, 09:25 PM

All stop. That is one stellar pic.

Posted by: Kansas 914 Mar 9 2017, 08:44 AM

Jimmy - I surprised you aren't playing though Fuchs: http://www.americanmusical.com/Fuchs-Amps

Posted by: Mikey914 Mar 10 2017, 10:26 AM

Took a good look at these and the Walmart in Harbor Freight version will not bolt up directly. I did find that I could easily make an adapter plate that would allow the new style of these tow brackets to be used. I'm working on that now. It just makes more sense to pick one up at Harbor Freight or Walmart then to have to ship it. Currently the Harbor Freight model is $69 full price and is subject to the 20% discount for their special members Club. So this would put a towbar available for local pickup in the same price as the Walmart bar. I'll keep you posted on the pricing for the adapters but they shouldn't be too bad.


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Posted by: Kansas 914 Mar 10 2017, 10:33 AM

Thanks Mark!

Posted by: 76-914 Mar 12 2017, 04:47 PM

I built this to use Mark's Bar a few weeks ago but just now got around to paint. I put about $75 into it. eTrailer has any component you need to build your own. I have the 2" ball, used .125 2" tube, etc.

Posted by: Kansas 914 Mar 12 2017, 05:15 PM

Well done! I will give you $76 dollars for it!

Seriously - very pro looking work - cheers!

Posted by: 76-914 Mar 12 2017, 08:22 PM

I built this to use Mark's Bar a few weeks ago but just now got around to paint. I put about $75 into it. eTrailer has any component you need to build your own. I have the 2" ball, used .125 2" tube, etc.

Posted by: Mikey914 Mar 13 2017, 01:20 AM

Very nice.

Posted by: StratPlayer Apr 17 2017, 11:41 AM

Got everything installed as per 914 rubber recommendations and I'm ready for the rt.66 rally.


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Posted by: Kansas 914 Apr 17 2017, 11:45 AM

Jimmy,

What is your ground clearance with the tow bar attached?

Posted by: StratPlayer Apr 17 2017, 11:47 AM

My ground clearance seems to be fine, I have a funky driveway, have to come in it at an angle, the car seems to clear it just fine. I will be careful where I have doubts.

Posted by: Kansas 914 Apr 17 2017, 11:49 AM

Thanks - I will see you at Red Rocks in September - cheers!