Backing a Mooney with a Tractor

[exM20K]

I have a big Bogert  universal towbar that I would like to use on the Mooney. But for the life of me, I can’t figure out the angles to back it with the towbar on the back of the tractor and the steer axle on the front. I just spent probably 20-30 mins trying.

Im pretty capable backing a trailer with a truck or motorhome, but this has me baffled.

Tips?

Of course, putting a receiver on the front is an option, but I also use this tractor for snow removal.

Thanks in advance.

-dan

[cliffy]

It can be done but it takes a lot of practice and it has big risks with our Mooneys and their narrow turning radius BIG RISK!

We used to push airliners that way with 40,000 pound tractors and only a few of the mechanics had the ability to do it.

I even did 747s that way with a 125,000 pound tractor. 

Maybe 1 out of 3 could accomplish the task. And this is with professional mechanics. You're not alone.

It may never happen  Make a different plan. 

You would be much better advised to remove the snow plow and have a hitch on the front end, MUCH MUCH EASIER but still has the risk.

We all know of Mooneys who's nose gear was almost or was torn out by using tugs to push them even from the nose of the tug 

I even know of a local Comanche that its nose gear ripped clean out by using a tug to move it, Twisted it right aaprt. 

BE CAREFUL!!!!

[A64Pilot]

Trust me, forget the tractor, turning angle is just too restricted on a Mooney, risk of damage too great.

I put a hitch on the front of my Golfcart, I’ve been moving aircraft with a tug for decades, had to be real careful. Hatched a plan of welding in a spring in the tongue of the tow bar so the spring would just bend as opposed to damaging the aircraft but never did it.

I bought a drill powered tow bar instead, much safer I think

[M20F]

I am just incredibly strong and push mine up a 30 degree incline the 50 yards to the hangar.  It’s a little tricky when it snows but then I just wear ice skates.  I really don’t understand kids today. 

[hais]

7 hours ago, M20F said:

I am just incredibly strong and push mine up a 30 degree incline the 50 yards to the hangar.  It’s a little tricky when it snows but then I just wear ice skates.  I really don’t understand kids today. 

If it feels difficult pushing up 30 degrees, it's probably the envelope protection trying to push the nose down to normal attitude 

[Igor_U]

On 2/1/2025 at 5:31 PM, exM20K said:

I have a big Bogert  universal towbar that I would like to use on the Mooney. But for the life of me, I can’t figure out the angles to back it with the towbar on the back of the tractor and the steer axle on the front. I just spent probably 20-30 mins trying.

Im pretty capable backing a trailer with a truck or motorhome, but this has me baffled.

Tips?

Of course, putting a receiver on the front is an option, but I also use this tractor for snow removal.

Thanks in advance.

-dan

I use the 17HP riding mower to back my plane into the hangars. Years ago, when I got it, I tried to back it in and found it very difficult. my buddy welded the bar attachment on the front end of the tractor and problem was solved. it's much easier now.