Carsy

Interested to know whether anyone has towed a caravan or trailer a long distance with the 5 speed auto?

I have towed a heavy trailer ( 1 tonne) over short distances without any problems. The car handles the load very safely & the 4 cyl diesel engine & gear box perform well.

I am concerned whether there is any downside regarding the 5 speed ATM & rear chassis distortion with long distance/long term towing ?.

In days gone by the ATM was fitted with oil coolers but as they are now original equipment.

The radiator has plenty of capacity .

Comments welcome.

JC

Carsy

No "tuggers " around ?.

Glyn M Ruck

JC ~ a lot of people tow with Benzes in SA. As long as the hitch pick up points are factory & kept tight you should have no issues.

The transmission is well protected. If it starts to overheat it will automatically select a lower ratio & hold gears for longer in an effort to circulate more fluid via the cooler. If it does not achieve sufficient cooling it will go into limp mode until it has cooled down.

Good practice with frequent towing is to halve the transmission service interval.

Don't exceed the vehicle's maximum towing weight. Use a braked trailer.

Carsy

Thanks Glyn. Glad to hear I am not the only one towing . Will check the hitch bolts when underneath next.