Findings from Subie Forester T@B Test Drive

Trailpixie

Yesterday we rented a T@B U as a test to see how we felt about towing it with our Forester XT.  We drove around in the Michaux State Forest in Pennsylvania and returned on some big highways. Here is what we learned:

1. Braking is fine, even with the surge brakes that only kicked in once. Electric brakes will be even better.
2. Even in windy conditions on the highway, the tail didn't wag the dog.
3. I need a tighter fitting hitch pin.  The clunking of the receiver moving against the pin in the hitch was disturbing
4. Bouncing was occasionally a bit disconcerting.  Heavier duty springs may help or more weight on the tongue may help.  This T@B was winterized so no water to hold the tongue down. (I didn't weigh the tongue)
5. Heater was cozy.
6. It does fine on winding roads (as long as it doesn't get too bumpy)
7. I can lock the subie steering wheel to one side and turn the thing around in a very small space.
8. The difference in engine effort between 60 mph and 65 mph is massive. 60 mph seems like a sweet spot.
9. The single table leg was really wobbly. Is that a common problem?

Nomad

4) Bouncing - Once you get it loaded up, that will probably settle down or go away.

TabberJohn

Trailpixie said:

1. I need a tighter fitting hitch pin.  The clunking of the receiver moving against the pin in the hitch was disturbing

The pin should be a snug fit if it's the correct size.
Ball mount movement within the receiver is easily fixed with a hitch tightener like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DOJGD2M?

pthomas745

I'm not clear how the tighteners work in real life.  Do they have to be bolted on and off each time you put the hitch on and off?

TabberJohn

pthomas745 said:

I'm not clear how the tighteners work in real life.  Do they have to be bolted on and off each time you put the hitch on and off?

Yes, bolted on/off each time you install your hitch.
Brand/models vary from U-bolts with standard lock washers or two nuts per side to an angled plate version with a single bolt.
The U-bolt one I linked to above is inexpensive, stainless steel, and claims superior lock washers.
Here's one that costs a lot more but is on/off in seconds with a ratchet wrench: http://hitchrider.com/nowobble.htm

Trailpixie

Cyclonic

Now I know who had Beckley's T@B out this weekend :-) Didn't see it sitting there when I drive by.  Sounds like you learned a lot.

Ratkity

pthomas745 said:

I'm not clear how the tighteners work in real life.  Do they have to be bolted on and off each time you put the hitch on and off?

I have the bolted on one. All you need to do is loose the nuts so it slides back off the receiver, don't have to take the nuts off all the way. Takes just as much time as the more expensive ones. I was surprised, to be honest. I was just going for "cheap, but effective" at the time.