What is the expected life span of a towbar?

[gcyeaw]

I have a 10k lb Demco. Bought it used from Randy and I have put 40 or 50 K on it. Still as solid as ever. Just have to clean and lube once a year. I used to have an aluminum Blu-Ox. Got floppy and just worn out towing a pretty light 95 Jeep Liberty Sport.

[Randy Dupree]

I wonder what the companys say about life span?
If,in their disclaimer somewhere it says that the lifespan is 3 years and something happens to a 6yo bar and we have a disaster,whos to blame?
I mean everybody gets sued if something goes wrong,but its the "what ifs" that we need to think about.

[MRPutz]

My tow bars seem to last right up to the crash, then I have to replace them.

I'm sure there must be some literature to relieve the manufactures of liability. But with proper maintenance and no more miles than we put on them I'd be surprised if they don't last the life of the car.

[Randy Dupree]

Originally Posted by MRPutz

My tow bars seem to last right up to the crash, then I have to replace them.

I'm sure there must be some literature to relieve the manufactures of liability. But with proper maintenance and no more miles than we put on them I'd be surprised if they don't last the life of the car.

I agree,but i get to thinking about stuff...

[Finally Free]

I just called Blue Ox. Their answer was 8-10 yrs or 70K miles (I'm assuming that means "whatever comes first"). The rep suggested having them serviced about every two years and said the cost at the factory was $125 or $150 if you want to include round trip shipping.
I'm on my second Blue Ox. After about 5 years I took my original to an "authorized" Blue Ox facility in AZ for a rebuild. I got it back just before leaving and made it about 200 miles when I noticed the toad was slightly out of line. Checked the connections and a plastic part on one of the arms had failed. I ended up ordering a new one rather than drive back the 200 miles. Next time it will go to the factory!!!