Bully67

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.

Circuit Motorsports

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.

rlm328

Torque and synthetic.

vr4henry

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.

ohenryinatlanta

what are you towing ?

pontifex4

+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.

pu911rsr

I pulled a 914 from Colorado to MT with my wife's MDX on a pretty light trailer w/o issues, probably 3100-3200 lbs total.
Phil

cec3

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

MSR Racer

I wouldn't even think about pulling a 993 with a MDX. Very dangerous.

BH987S

How is it that Europeans and Brits routinely tow (comparatively) significant weight with their small cars?

IPguy

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

Frank 993 C4S

I wouldn't use the Acura. From the spec it looks like your tow rating is only 3,500 lbs for a trailer.

Maybe sell the Acura for a Touareq or Cayenne?

Kein_Ersatz

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.

BlueBarchetta

In the process of once researching why certain German SUV's had very high tow ratings relative to their tongue weight ratings, I ran across the answer to you're question.

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.

BH987S

Do you use weight distribution?