If the tow rope does not have a hook, use a bowline knot to secure it. Rope may slip off the tow hitch if you secure it only to that. Most tow ropes are three to five feet in length. You do not want a very long rope when towing a vehicle with another, as it can make managing the towed vehicle difficult.
The cross member beneath the engine may be an appropriate area to attach a tow rope in your vehicle. Refer to the service manual for your specific vehicle if you are unsure of where to locate portions of your frame that are exposed. Do not attach the rope to the axle of the vehicle. The frame is the only portion of the vehicle you should use when towing it with a rope.
Have a friend keep an eye on the rope and provide direction to the driver of the tow vehicle.
Keeping a driver in both vehicles will allow for the most control in the situation. If the towed vehicle can start, start it and keep it running while being pulled.
Driving slowly is the only safe way to pull a vehicle with a tow rope. Be extremely careful driving slowly while towing another vehicle on public streets.
Wrap the winch line around a tree that is at least a foot in diameter then hook it to itself. You may also use rocks or guardrails to attach your vehicle. Use the controls on the winch to pull the vehicle.
You will need at least twenty feet of rope between the vehicle and the tree. Ensure the rope is taught between the two. A bowline knot will support the weight required and still allow you to untie the rope when you are done.
The more friends you gather, the easier it will be. Ensure you have plenty of extra rope so there’s enough room for everyone to assist.
If you have enough rope, you can simply wrap it around the midpoint and use both ends to pull from. If you do not have enough rope to wrap it around the midpoint, tie it to the other rope with a bowline knot.
Pulling from this angle will allow you to pull a car you would not otherwise be able to pull.
Most tow ropes that can be purchased at auto parts stores are sufficient to pull normal sized cars or trucks. Do not use a rope if you aren’t able to determine its maximum strength rating.
Some vehicle’s brakes will not function properly without the vacuum created by the engine running. The vehicle will not have power steering without the engine running.
If the vehicle will not start, it is not safe to tow it a long distance. Without power steering or brakes the towed vehicle may crash into the tow vehicle. If you need to pull a vehicle out of mud, snow or a ditch, you will only need to pull it until it can move under its own power.
Laws in the United States vary from state to state regarding towing a vehicle with a rope. In some places it is illegal to tow a vehicle with a rope at all.
