Maximus 3 Tow Loops

[JeepinJason33]

From https://maximus-3.com/jtgladiator-/jl-jt-towing-package-with-blue-ox?search_query=tow&results=11#/

"The Maximus-3 Tie Rod provides a 3rd triangulated component, which prevents the tow-bar arms from spreading outwards in the event of surge break, delay or malfunction."​

I see the picture of the actual pieces you can buy, am I missing the instruction link and picture on vehicle? I checked the link you posted and don't see anything other than the description...

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[Gadgettr1]

I like the pics of the solution that Redbaron posted better than the parts that Maximus 3 are showing. I'm not currently towing my Jeep behind an RV but am now concerned about using those points for recovery. I'd like a way to brace those points similar to what Redbaron had posted I think. Unless someone has come up with something better?

 

[Powelligator]

I see the picture of the actual pieces you can buy, am I missing the instruction link and picture on vehicle? I checked the link you posted and don't see anything other than the description...

I'm really confused as to how their tie rod works. In the (only) picture on their website it appears that the ends are Heim Joints, which doesn't make sense compared to the home made solution of a simple connecting bar in one of the posts above. I must be missing something.

Does anyone reading this actually have the Maximus Tie Rod solution installed? Can you post a few pics for us?

If Maximus is reading this, can you post an explanation / more pictures for us as to how your tie rod installs / works?

 

[John VonJeep]

Gotta be honest: I’m surprised that Maximus hasn’t tried to get ahead of this more.

”We told you to buy our confusing tie rod system [except they didn’t, really] so it’s basically your fault if our product wrecked your frame” is not a response that inspires confidence.

 

[AnnDee4444]

I'm really confused as to how their tie rod works. In the (only) picture on their website it appears that the ends are Heim Joints, which doesn't make sense compared to the home made solution of a simple connecting bar in one of the posts above. I must be missing something.

If I understand Maximus-3's description correctly, the issue is apparently not from pulling the Jeep but from stopping it. The green crossbar bar below is in tension when stopping. Without it the other links apply load that spreads the frame apart.

 

[JeepinJason33]

I think Maximus has left the building... I am equally as confused and that is why I asked Maximus if they had installation instructions or even a picture of this installed. Seems like they would since they "have always suggested this for towing." Only thing I can figure out is maybe the joints at the end unscrew and the bolts go in their place through the smaller hole. The problem for me is that, I already drilled and installed my female plug for the wiring in that area and this bar would go right over the hole so I am not sure what the hell I am going to do. I still have not had time to pull the tow loops to see if they are just bent, or if they are bent and have damaged the frame as I am out of town.

 

[JeepinJason33]

The issue is apparently not from pulling the Jeep, but from stopping it. The green crossbar bar below is in tension when stopping. Without it the other links apply load that spreads the frame apart.

I don't disagree, but the assumption is that "safe and rated for flat towing" by Maximus on the original sale of these tow loops would also imply stopping as well as pulling. I have not had any emergency stops with mine and they spread out. I have a 40,000 pound Super C RV so it comes to a fairly long and gentle stop.

 

[AnnDee4444]

I don't disagree, but the assumption is that "safe and rated for flat towing" by Maximus on the original sale of these tow loops would also imply stopping as well as pulling. I have not had any emergency stops with mine and they spread out. I have a 40,000 pound Super C RV so it comes to a fairly long and gentle stop.

I'm not going to argue what Maximus did or didn't say, as I didn't buy the tow hooks for this purpose and had no reason to ever research the tow-bar. I'm interpreting what the forces involved are based off of what is currently on their website, and why this product could cause damage for my intended purpose.

I've never driven a Super C RV, but I'd be willing to bet that it goes from 60-0 a whole lot faster than 0-60. This means the braking loads are going to be larger than most other scenarios (maybe reversing and\or turning would be higher...). Again, I don't have this product but the length of the links will also have influence on how much load is applied at the brackets: longer links = less spreading load during braking. And finally had the brackets been designed to mount inside of the framerails it's likely they wouldn't have these issues.

 

[Gaffer]

Gotta be honest: I’m surprised that Maximus hasn’t tried to get ahead of this more.

”We told you to buy our confusing tie rod system [except they didn’t, really] so it’s basically your fault if our product wrecked your frame” is not a response that inspires confidence.

It is really disappointing that Maximus is so silent on this issue. When I first looked at this product I thought it was the best solution for me. I don't recall seeing anything on their site saying that the cross bar was required for towing if you wanted to prevent damage to your Jeep. Their solution does not work for me. I like to fold away my towbar for storage on the back of my motorhome. I wonder how many people out there are flat towing with these not knowing they have damaged their Jeeps and may be very close to a very bad experience. The Jeeps I have seen on the road and at RV parks did not have the crossbar.

 

[Alan_Hepburn]

When I first investigated these last year I don't recall seeing anything on their website recommending the cross-bar, in fact I don't recall seeing a link to a cross-bar anywhere. I was ready to order the loops and the Blue Ox adapters a couple of weeks ago, and then you guys started discussing this "weakness" - yesterday I ordered a standard Blue Ox base plate instead of the Maximus 3 system. Saves a bunch of cash, and doesn't hang down any further than the Maximus 3.

 

[Brandonhgt]

I have not flat towed yet with the Maximus system, but here are the instructions included with the strut bar. I just finished wiring up the cooltech/stay and play brakes/and rvi charger yesterday and am hesitant to try it out given the issues noted here.

 

[AnnDee4444]

Has anyone that's used the tie-bar had any bending issues?

 

[KDB]

What towing tie rod are you referring to? I purchased this from you in early 2020 and there was never a mention of any other product required.

Same here except I just purchased mine 2 months ago (February 22) and there was no mention of any tow package.

Ryan @Maximus-3 i would suggest that your team provide the cross member as a solo option for all that have previously purchased your “tow hooks” for flat towing. I now see that your site states “NOTE: Tow Bar Adapter-Clevis required in order to attach a tow bar – sold separately” I can assure that this statement was not on the site when I ordered my tow hooks 6 weeks ago.

Please provide a link to this “sold separately” adaptor clevis asap or, better yet supply free of charge to all that have already purchased your “tow hooks” without this adaptor clevis.

Edit - I have a road master tow bar as well so please advise as to a work around for that set up as your “package” appears to be for blue ox systems

 

[RocknJL]

I just recently purchased these myself to replace Roadmaster brackets that did not allow for the installation of a winch. Not only does the info not state you need this added bar I emailed Maximus and asked them what I needed to FLAT TOW my Jeep and here is my email and their response. Extremely pissed as I just spent the weekend installing these + a winch.

 

[Powelligator]

I have not flat towed yet with the Maximus system, but here are the instructions included with the strut bar. I just finished wiring up the cooltech/stay and play brakes/and rvi charger yesterday and am hesitant to try it out given the issues noted here.

I have a RoadMaster Tow Bar, doesn't look like that's going to work for me.

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