Nasty Creak from Alko Stabiliser

[Litespeed]

We have just purchased a brand new Abbey with a Alko stabiliser.

Last night after hitching it up I went to pull away I heard a loud creak that traveled right through the car. Handbarke still on I thought! Checked it - no. I then spent about 15 minutes in forward and reverse at very low speeds (1 mph)trying to pin the creak down.

I found that when I released the stabiliser it stopped again.

It finally did stop after 15 more minutes of normal towing.

I have since been told that this is normal due to the friction pad system.......sounds like it needs a drop of oil on it!!

 

[MickC1]

Simon, whatever you do don't oil the stabiliser. It works by friction. If you lubricate it you remove the friction and it won't work.

It was probably just bedding in, but it may be worth checking the setting. If it is a blade type then instructions for doing this should be included with the stabiliser.

 

[Lutz]

As it's an AlKo stabiliser, give the towball a good clean with emery paper to remove rust or paint residue.

 

[Tony A.]

Allways degrease the tow ball with meths or other spirit prior to hitching up, NEVER EVER LUBRICATE THE BALL YOU WILL RUIN THE PADS IN THE STABILIZER AND IT WILL COST YOU TO REPLACE THEM

 

[Les_5040898]

Simon, If you have fitted the Alko towball (same 50mm ball size, but slightly longer neck) you will have noticed it is painted black. The friction pads grip the towball at the sides & top which initially rubs this paint off, creating the loud creaking noise. Don't worry it will soon settle down, but as mentioned by previous replies do not ever oil or grease it !

 

[WatsonJohnG]

Its essential to clean off the black paint with emery Alko say

Have a look at www.al-ko.co.uk.

It has the answers to most questions on things Alko

 

[Litespeed]

Thanks for all the help. As it was new (and the towball) I think it was caused by the paint. Ive cleaned it up now with wet and dry / emery and everything seems OK. Just a good job I didnt oil it!!

Thanks again,

Simon

 

[WatsonJohnG]

Thanks for all the help. As it was new (and the towball) I think it was caused by the paint. Ive cleaned it up now with wet and dry / emery and everything seems OK. Just a good job I didnt oil it!!

Thanks again,

Simon

Glad to hear a happy ending