The KFI TigerTail Tow System is a robust and versatile towing device designed primarily for Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) and side-by-side vehicles. It functions as a self-retracting tow rope system, offering a convenient and efficient solution for recovering stuck vehicles or assisting in various towing scenarios. The system is not intended for use on public roads or for lifting/supporting humans.
Function Description:
The TigerTail Tow System consists of a durable housing that encloses a spool with a synthetic tow rope, a spring mechanism for automatic retraction, and an adjustable hook for attachment. The core function of the device is to provide a controlled and self-storing tow rope. When a vehicle needs to be towed, the rope is extended from the spool, attached to the towed vehicle, and then retracted as the towing vehicle moves, pulling the stuck vehicle free. The self-retracting feature eliminates the need to manually wind the rope, making recovery operations quicker and safer. The system is designed to handle towing loads up to a maximum of 2,400 lbs, aligning with the recommended towing limits of most UTV manufacturers. It is crucial to ensure that the rigging does not produce a load in excess of 2,400 lbs on any single rope section during winch operations. Proper double-line rigging can help reduce the load on individual rope sections.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Part Number: 101120
- Maximum Towing Limit: 2,400 lbs (not to exceed vehicle manufacturer's recommended limits)
- Intended Use: Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) and side-by-side vehicles
- Rope Type: Synthetic rope (specific details like material and diameter are not explicitly stated but implied by "7/16" WIRE ROPE THIMBLE" in the parts list)
- Mounting: Requires a specific mounting bracket (sold separately)
- Tightening Torque for Mounting Bolts: 78 ft-lbs (106 N-m)
- Components:
- TIGERTAIL XT BASE (Part # 61201)
- XT BASE HOOK ADJUSTER (Part # 101132)
- SPOOL (Part # 41019)
- SPOOL SPACER (Part # P800343)
- SHAFT SEAL (Part # 41022)
- 2-046 BUNA-N O-RING 70D BLACK (Part # 41024)
- SPRING COVER ASM (Part # 41027), including SPRING COVER (Part # 41025) and TIGERTAIL SPRING (Part # 41026)
- XT SHAFT (Part # 71206)
- KFI TIGERTAIL ROPE ASSEMBLY (Part # 101121), including TIGERTAIL XT ROPE (Part # 101122-15) and 7/16" WIRE ROPE THIMBLE (Part # 41013)
- TOW HOOK #12 ZINC (Part # 41011)
- Various bolts, nuts, and washers for assembly and mounting, including #10-24 x 5/8" CARRIAGE BOLT, STEEL, ZINC (Part # CB-ZP-1024-0_63), #10-24 HEX NUT NYLOCK, STEEL, ZINC (Part # HNNL-ZP-1024), #10 FLAT WASHER, SAE, STEEL, ZINC (Part # FW-SAE-ZP-10), 1/2-13 x 1 1/4 CARRIAGE BOLT, STEEL, ZINC PLATED (Part # CB-ZP-0500-13-1 25), 1/2" FLAT WASHER, SAE, STEEL, ZINC (Part # FW-SAE-ZP-0500), 1/2"-13 HEX NUT, STEEL, ZINC (Part # HN-ZP-0500-13), and #10-24 x 3/4" CARRIAGE BOLT, STEEL, ZINC (Part # CB-ZP-1024-0 75).
- Warranty: Limited 6-month warranty from the original date of purchase, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Commercial or rental use reduces the warranty period to 90 days. Exclusions include normal wear, adjustments, maintenance, finish, and synthetic rope.
Usage Features:
- Ease of Installation: The system is designed for straightforward installation onto a pre-installed mounting bracket. The process involves placing the hook, securing the device with bolts, and tightening them to a specified torque.
- Self-Retracting Rope: The primary feature is the coiled spring mechanism that automatically retracts the tow rope onto the spool, eliminating manual winding and keeping the rope neatly stored when not in use.
- Adjustable Hook Tension: The hook arm tension can be adjusted using two nuts and bolts to ensure the hook does not fall out of its storage hole.
- Controlled Towing: When towing, the rope should be extended by driving slowly (maximum 2 mph) away from the towed vehicle. The towed vehicle must keep the rope at maximum length, even if it appears taut.
- Safe Recovery: Emphasizes gentle throttle depression to free the towed vehicle, avoiding "jerk loading" and tire spinning, which can cause injury or damage.
- Storage Position: The hook should be snug in its stored position, preventing accidental dislodgement.
- Safety Guidelines: The manual stresses the importance of wearing DOT-approved safety gear (helmet, gloves, chest protector, goggles), driving slowly (max 5 mph when towing), and exercising extreme caution on slopes and rough terrain. It explicitly prohibits using the rope fairlead or any other part of the TigerTail as a tow/anchor point, instead recommending OEM or approved anchor points.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: Keep the tow system clean of mud and debris. Avoid pressure washing at close proximity (closer than 2 feet or 0.61m) to prevent damage. Do not use heavy detergents or petroleum-based products on the rope or spool.
- Hook Adjustment: If the hook is not snug in the stored position, loosen the nuts on the front of the hook tab, slide the adjuster upwards, retighten the nuts, and verify proper operation.
- Rope Inspection: Before each use, inspect the rope for cuts, abrasions, or hard spots. Replace the rope immediately if signs of wear are present. Protect the rope from sharp edges and extreme heat.
- Regular Inspections: Perform regular inspections and maintenance on the entire TigerTail System before each use. Ensure all nuts and bolts are tightened according to installation instructions.
- Protection from Elements: Excessive sunlight can damage the spool, spring housing, and rope, and may cause paint fading. It is recommended to cover the Tow System when it is not in use.
- Damaged Parts: Never operate the product with missing or damaged parts.
- Spring Tension Warning: The device contains a coiled spring under tension. Do NOT remove nuts securing the housing, as this could lead to personal injury.
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