How to Build a Cheap Rope Tow

If you have a need to make an inexpensive rope tow, say for towing behind a boat, ATV or vehicle, use some scrap timber as the main tow bar. An inexpensive tow rope system should be used for utility purposes and not for sport where humans are being pulled, such as in water-skiing. It is best to use a nylon-based rope, which has a dynamic quality that allows a slight bit of stretch and prevents rips or breaks when under stress and weight.

Things You'll Need

  • 12- to 18-inch 2 x 4 timber
  • Power drill with 1/2-inch drill bit
  • 10mm to 13mm nylon rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find the center of the 2 x 4 and mark it. Drill out a full hole in the center of the timber.

    • 2

      Thread the nylon rope through the hole. Tie three square knots on the end of the rope and then pull it tight and up to the hole on the timber, locking it into position. The knots need to be at least 1/2-inch larger than the hole itself to prevent it from going through the hole.

    • 3

      Line out the long end of the rope and attach it to the towing vehicle such as the boat, ATV or auto. Use the timber-tow-bar as the attachment to the towing rig.