bruceb
Diamond Member
- Aug 20, 2004
- 8,874
- 111
- 106
Trailer hitches are designed to evenly distribute the load of the trailer / contents to the tow vehicle. Many factors decide how much a car / pickup / suv can tow including:
Type / Class and mounting of the receiver hitch ... frame mount is strongest
Engine horsepower & torque ... more weight needs more of both
Type of transmission .. manual can handle more power than automatic
and gives driver full control of what gear to use and when.
Internal strength of transmission and rear axle gears
Tranny needs an oil cooler for towing or it will overheat (especially automatic)
Engine cooling system ... should be heavy duty (more coolant, larger radiator, with fans that are on during towing .. switchable for electrics or a non clutch fan)
Type / Class and mounting of the receiver hitch ... frame mount is strongest
Engine horsepower & torque ... more weight needs more of both
Type of transmission .. manual can handle more power than automatic
and gives driver full control of what gear to use and when.
Internal strength of transmission and rear axle gears
Tranny needs an oil cooler for towing or it will overheat (especially automatic)
Engine cooling system ... should be heavy duty (more coolant, larger radiator, with fans that are on during towing .. switchable for electrics or a non clutch fan)
