Seeking opinions on Tow Vehicle
#1
Racer
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Michigan
Posts: 320
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Seeking opinions on Tow Vehicle
So I've read multiple threads concerning tow vehicles, researching open trailers and have been considering my options. For the near future, my needs are limited and would be open trailer for regional travel with longest trip about 5 hours - relatively flat travel in the Midwest.
We have a 2004 Acura MDX AWD (3.5L V6, 265hp, 253lb-ft torque)- 'tow package' installed at the dealer. I can't find the original purchase info but my research doesn't indicate the tow package is a significant mechanical upgrade. If I remember correctly it cost about $1000 and is basically a tow hitch and electricals installed. Dealership stated that max weight was 5000lbs.
Rough calculation 14' or 17' aluminum featherlite is 1500 lbs, anticipated car weight <3000lb. I doubt I'll have a significant amount of extra equipment with me for now so the weight should not exceed 4500lbs. Is this plan completely stupid?
Other potential solution is sell my Audi S4 DD for a Ford F150/F250 DD/tow vehicle. Either way I buy an open trailer but by using the Acura I can simplify the process.
We have a 2004 Acura MDX AWD (3.5L V6, 265hp, 253lb-ft torque)- 'tow package' installed at the dealer. I can't find the original purchase info but my research doesn't indicate the tow package is a significant mechanical upgrade. If I remember correctly it cost about $1000 and is basically a tow hitch and electricals installed. Dealership stated that max weight was 5000lbs.
Rough calculation 14' or 17' aluminum featherlite is 1500 lbs, anticipated car weight <3000lb. I doubt I'll have a significant amount of extra equipment with me for now so the weight should not exceed 4500lbs. Is this plan completely stupid?
Other potential solution is sell my Audi S4 DD for a Ford F150/F250 DD/tow vehicle. Either way I buy an open trailer but by using the Acura I can simplify the process.
#2
Addict
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Small
Business Sponsor
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Small
Business Sponsor
Those kits also usually add a transmission cooler too. FWIW.
If it meets all the GVWR and tow capacity and such number I don't see a problem.
Others will say, you'll die in a fiery wreck without a diesel. Yes it's easier to tow with a bigger vehicle but it's not a requirement. Just understand the compromise of a smaller vehicle and you'll be good.
If it meets all the GVWR and tow capacity and such number I don't see a problem.
Others will say, you'll die in a fiery wreck without a diesel. Yes it's easier to tow with a bigger vehicle but it's not a requirement. Just understand the compromise of a smaller vehicle and you'll be good.
#4
Depends how far you drive to/from track.
I was towing open trailers with a Cayenne turbo, way under the GVWR and trailer max... but I got to tell you that little 112" wheelbase makes for a twitchy ride. I switched for a quarter ton truck and couldn't be happier. Even moved to an aluminum enclosed trailer and still prefer it over the open trailer + Cayenne.
I typically go 250+miles each way... if it were only <50 I'd still have the Cayenne.
I was towing open trailers with a Cayenne turbo, way under the GVWR and trailer max... but I got to tell you that little 112" wheelbase makes for a twitchy ride. I switched for a quarter ton truck and couldn't be happier. Even moved to an aluminum enclosed trailer and still prefer it over the open trailer + Cayenne.
I typically go 250+miles each way... if it were only <50 I'd still have the Cayenne.
#6
+1 on what are you towing? If it's that 993, how sure are you about the weight?
I would be much less concerned with power than brakes.
I think the best combination with the MDX would be a Trailex 7541 EB (if your car will fit) since it is under 1,000lb and you can move the axles to configure it to balance properly if you have a 911. The EB is for electric brakes, for which you will need an electronic brake controller. I used a Tekonsha Prodigy P3 and was relatively confident towing with a near-limit vehicle until I got a Suburban, but the truck still does a significant amount of braking for the trailer, so think brakes first.
I would be much less concerned with power than brakes.
I think the best combination with the MDX would be a Trailex 7541 EB (if your car will fit) since it is under 1,000lb and you can move the axles to configure it to balance properly if you have a 911. The EB is for electric brakes, for which you will need an electronic brake controller. I used a Tekonsha Prodigy P3 and was relatively confident towing with a near-limit vehicle until I got a Suburban, but the truck still does a significant amount of braking for the trailer, so think brakes first.
Trending Topics
#8
Agree with Trailex ct7541 recommendation above. Weight of trailer is 845# and it will fit in a standard garage. That extra savings of 650# over the 1500# trailer you mentioned will makes a bigger difference with a smaller tow vehicle
#11
Three Wheelin'
Here is an inexpensive option, close to you, that is more than capable for what you want to do:
https://rennlist.com/forums/11334339-post1.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/11334381-post1.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/11334339-post1.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/11334381-post1.html
#12
Addict
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
We have a 2004 Acura MDX AWD (3.5L V6, 265hp, 253lb-ft torque)- 'tow package' installed at the dealer. I can't find the original purchase info but my research doesn't indicate the tow package is a significant mechanical upgrade. If I remember correctly it cost about $1000 and is basically a tow hitch and electricals installed. Dealership stated that max weight was 5000lbs.
Rough calculation 14' or 17' aluminum featherlite is 1500 lbs, anticipated car weight <3000lb. I doubt I'll have a significant amount of extra equipment with me for now so the weight should not exceed 4500lbs. Is this plan completely stupid?
Rough calculation 14' or 17' aluminum featherlite is 1500 lbs, anticipated car weight <3000lb. I doubt I'll have a significant amount of extra equipment with me for now so the weight should not exceed 4500lbs. Is this plan completely stupid?
Maybe sell the Acura for a Touareq or Cayenne?
#13
Rennlist Member
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Flyoverland - Central, Ohio
Posts: 3,235
Received 257 Likes
on
180 Posts
Having said the above, been very happy towing my set up ('03 X5 4.6 Trailex enclosed) from OH to WG, RA, Sebring, & Barber.
It seems short distance form rear SUV axle to hitch ball pivot point helps with tail wag dog effect. Need HP to pull and good brakes to stop, electric trailer breaks a good idea as you approach max weight.
Middle photo, not me but yes that is "the Ring". Started with open U-Haul to test the capabilities of X5 towing.
#14
Instructor
Trailers in America are set up and balanced with the expectation that approx 10-15 % of the loaded weight will be on the tongue. European trailers are usually set for as little as 6-8% tongue weight. This is likely due to the lack of frame based vehicles available for towing.
#15
They go much slower, 80kph or slower. Here in fly-over land, many tow the speed limit (70mph/112kph) or more.
Having said the above, been very happy towing my set up ('03 X5 4.6 Trailex enclosed) from OH to WG, RA, Sebring, & Barber.
It seems short distance form rear SUV axle to hitch ball pivot point helps with tail wag dog effect. Need HP to pull and good brakes to stop, electric trailer breaks a good idea as you approach max weight.
Middle photo, not me but yes that is "the Ring". Started with open U-Haul to test the capabilities of X5 towing.
Having said the above, been very happy towing my set up ('03 X5 4.6 Trailex enclosed) from OH to WG, RA, Sebring, & Barber.
It seems short distance form rear SUV axle to hitch ball pivot point helps with tail wag dog effect. Need HP to pull and good brakes to stop, electric trailer breaks a good idea as you approach max weight.
Middle photo, not me but yes that is "the Ring". Started with open U-Haul to test the capabilities of X5 towing.