Towing with the C55 - any precautions?
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Towing with the C55 - any precautions?
Hey guys,
I am mildly considering selling my Tacoma and just going the one car route for a while, as the sum total of what I seem to be using the truck is moving my bike around. If I do that, I would be installing a tow hitch on the C55 and setting it up to tow my motorcycle when needed.
My bike weighs about 400 lbs wet, a nice Kendon lightweight trailer weighs about 350 lbs, and all the track gear probably weighs another 100-150. So total load would be under 1000 lbs. I would be doing this about 6-8 times a year, if that.
I am not worried about finding a hitch that works, seem to be plenty of options online. I am wondering if there are any precautions I should take with the car itself - is there an additional transmission cooler needed? Should I put it in "C" mode as opposed to sport? Just how much wear does towing cause on the car?
PLEASE, I don't want to hear "its an AMG, don't tow with it" or "get a beater truck" etc. The C55 is 6 years old and depreciates like a rock anyway and I don't believe in garage queens. Hitches are pretty discrete these days, plenty of guys at the track towing their track bikes with M3s, volvos etc.
I am mildly considering selling my Tacoma and just going the one car route for a while, as the sum total of what I seem to be using the truck is moving my bike around. If I do that, I would be installing a tow hitch on the C55 and setting it up to tow my motorcycle when needed.
My bike weighs about 400 lbs wet, a nice Kendon lightweight trailer weighs about 350 lbs, and all the track gear probably weighs another 100-150. So total load would be under 1000 lbs. I would be doing this about 6-8 times a year, if that.
I am not worried about finding a hitch that works, seem to be plenty of options online. I am wondering if there are any precautions I should take with the car itself - is there an additional transmission cooler needed? Should I put it in "C" mode as opposed to sport? Just how much wear does towing cause on the car?
PLEASE, I don't want to hear "its an AMG, don't tow with it" or "get a beater truck" etc. The C55 is 6 years old and depreciates like a rock anyway and I don't believe in garage queens. Hitches are pretty discrete these days, plenty of guys at the track towing their track bikes with M3s, volvos etc.
Last edited by xxaarraa; Jun 4, 2012 at 10:32 AM.
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From: Atlanta Metro
Current: C217 V12TT AMG Previously: C55 AMG, SL65 AMG
My opinion (because I haven't done any towing) is I don't think you would need any additional coolers, and the way the AMG is setup it's already made for higher abuse. I say go ahead and do it, the engine, trans, suspension, and brakes are already awesome on this car. Drive slow....
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From: New Zealand
Its like a car full of very "heavy" people, no problem. The engine can take it and the transmission can take it. If you want to be safe then don't got WOT up a steep hill with the trailer on which I'm sure you really wanted to do.
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From: Eugene Oregon
C32 AMG and a 2004 Porsche Cayenne
as someone who used to install hitches for a living, I would say you should be fine with the low tow weight. But just remember to drive like you are towing something and you will be fine. If you are truly worried about a transmission cooler go ahead and install one. I dont think you need it but they are a good idea even if you arent towing.
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From: East Lansing Mi
Mercedes C55
Shouldn't have any issues and those cooling fins on the rear diff can only be to your benefit.. I would suggest to tow in "C" mode for a smoother pull with less stress on your engine/trans mounts.
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From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
Consider ditching the Tacoma, although AWD is useful in the NE.
Do ensure that the trailer’s tongue load and weight distribution are within customarily accepted guidelines. You'll hardly even notice it.
Certainly don’t need a GMC to tow a measly 1000 pounds.
Do ensure that the trailer’s tongue load and weight distribution are within customarily accepted guidelines. You'll hardly even notice it.
Certainly don’t need a GMC to tow a measly 1000 pounds.
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