It is not the car or engine that limits towing capability; it is the transmission.
My construction business has several trucks that tow trailers. Believe me when I say the lightweight automatic transmissions will not hold up to towing even medium weight trailers (2000-4000 pounds). The stick shift does better, but only marginally. You can get by with occasional use, but for full time use, you need a heavy-duty transmission. BTW, I once towed a 10-foot U-Haul enclosed trailer (loaded) for 500 miles with a VW Beetle. The wind resistance was my major problem. I could not get it over about 50 mph. Tom Potter -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of David Brodbeck Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2006 1:25 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] New GL class Mitch Haley wrote: > As far as boat towing is concerned, I once towed a 2650lb fiberglass > runabout, trailer, 80hp mercruiser combo up into Ontario with my > 93hp, 2.2L Horizon. Didn't encounter my first fourth gear hillclimb > until I was in Michigan's upper penninsula. They don't make 'em like they used to, though. I think part of the reason people go to SUVs is most modern cars have really pathetic towing ratings. Even full-sized sedans often can't tow a 2000 pound trailer anymore. The Ford Crown Victoria, which used to be good for a couple of tons, is now limited to 1500 pounds, for example. You pretty much have to get an SUV or pickup to tow anything. My Volvo 240 was a great tow vehicle. I briefly considered getting a hitch for the Mercedes, but the available ones have really low ratings...plus I found out what new half shafts cost. I don't really trust CV joints to handle heavy loads the way a solid axle will. David Brodbeck '83 300D Turbo _______________________________________ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net
