Towing a Uhaul trailer with original Mercedes hitch
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 83
Likes: 1
2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
Not me... just the Uhaul trailer.
So I went into the Uhaul trailer rental a few days ago and spoke with the person that installed hitches for over an hour. He sounded really knowledgeable. I originally wanted a 5x10 to pull across several states but he told me 5x10's aren't allowed to go one way and my option was either a smaller or bigger (6x12) trailer.
I told him that my hitch gross weight was 3500 lbs and the receiver had a 1 1/4 inch opening. He told me that I shouldn't pull anything above that. I told him I was confused because his online system told me I could pull greater than that (i.e. a 6x12 trailer).
He then went to look at my hitch under the GLK and told me my hitch was pretty heavy duty even though the receiver opening wasn't a class 3. Then he went to look at his computer and told me my car shouldn't have a problem pulling a 6x12 (up to 2,480 lbs cargo weight). He told me he installed hitches on smaller Subarus and they were even able to pull a 6x12.
Does anyone have any thoughts on this? I'm moving apartments in a few days with the 6x12 as a test run. I will then move across the country with the 6x12 a few months after that if this is successful.
So I went into the Uhaul trailer rental a few days ago and spoke with the person that installed hitches for over an hour. He sounded really knowledgeable. I originally wanted a 5x10 to pull across several states but he told me 5x10's aren't allowed to go one way and my option was either a smaller or bigger (6x12) trailer.
I told him that my hitch gross weight was 3500 lbs and the receiver had a 1 1/4 inch opening. He told me that I shouldn't pull anything above that. I told him I was confused because his online system told me I could pull greater than that (i.e. a 6x12 trailer).
He then went to look at my hitch under the GLK and told me my hitch was pretty heavy duty even though the receiver opening wasn't a class 3. Then he went to look at his computer and told me my car shouldn't have a problem pulling a 6x12 (up to 2,480 lbs cargo weight). He told me he installed hitches on smaller Subarus and they were even able to pull a 6x12.
Does anyone have any thoughts on this? I'm moving apartments in a few days with the 6x12 as a test run. I will then move across the country with the 6x12 a few months after that if this is successful.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 571
Likes: 17
From: Redding, CA
'85 190D , '12 E350 BlueTec, '13 GLK 250 BlueTec
When I first read this thread my reaction is you were being overly cautious. (That's good!) I would never have given it a second thought about pulling the 6 X 12. The vehicle weight is 2½ TONS. You're pulling around 1 ton. Many of the concerns are eliminated by just the weight differentials. I'm contemplating a vacation trailer with a gross weight near the 3500# limit and I have no problem with that, rightly or wrongly. You just adjust your driving accordingly.
Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 105
Likes: 0
From: Boston , MA
GLK250 BlueTec- 2014
Are you towing a trailer as well as installing a cargo carrier and a bike rack? 
One problem with those cargo carriers and bike racks, is that they obscure the rear license plate. I have a similar type of bike rack, but added a mount and light for the plate (which I move during long trips). I notice that some commercial vehicles with cargo racks also relocate their plates. In UK and Europe it seems they have to. MB even sell bike rack with place for mounting plates.
One problem with those cargo carriers and bike racks, is that they obscure the rear license plate. I have a similar type of bike rack, but added a mount and light for the plate (which I move during long trips). I notice that some commercial vehicles with cargo racks also relocate their plates. In UK and Europe it seems they have to. MB even sell bike rack with place for mounting plates.
tis hard to explain the set that ; but I will try to:
> we bought that TRAY (on that link) and also bought that 2-bike rack
from the same supplier. Then I got a bike rack welded (certified welder)to the BACK of RACK (painted same black color after weld)
so that the bikes are hung towards the carrier. Then the bike rack is like part of the carrier. We then added two "lockable plastic bins" on the rack - as they are not that high/tall - all things fits nicely and lots of people ( on the trip so far have asked " where did you buy that? - its neat!"
we also ADDED a simple mount on bike rack for the USA Plates. (already got my front plates 'stolen' by time we reached PEI :P:P
some honest nufi
has a nice Souvenir! lol) Pity Bosslady wont let me take a pic to post here - I be
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 689
Likes: 30
Hello 107*>
tis hard to explain the set that ; but I will try to:
> we bought that TRAY (on that link) and also bought that 2-bike rack
from the same supplier. Then I got a bike rack welded (certified welder)to the BACK of RACK (painted same black color after weld)
so that the bikes are hung towards the carrier. Then the bike rack is like part of the carrier. We then added two "lockable plastic bins" on the rack - as they are not that high/tall - all things fits nicely and lots of people ( on the trip so far have asked " where did you buy that? - its neat!"
we also ADDED a simple mount on bike rack for the USA Plates. (already got my front plates 'stolen' by time we reached PEI :P:Psome honest nufi has a nice Souvenir! lol)
Pity Bosslady wont let me take a pic to post here - I be
tis hard to explain the set that ; but I will try to:
> we bought that TRAY (on that link) and also bought that 2-bike rack
from the same supplier. Then I got a bike rack welded (certified welder)to the BACK of RACK (painted same black color after weld)
so that the bikes are hung towards the carrier. Then the bike rack is like part of the carrier. We then added two "lockable plastic bins" on the rack - as they are not that high/tall - all things fits nicely and lots of people ( on the trip so far have asked " where did you buy that? - its neat!"
we also ADDED a simple mount on bike rack for the USA Plates. (already got my front plates 'stolen' by time we reached PEI :P:P
some honest nufi has a nice Souvenir! lol) Pity Bosslady wont let me take a pic to post here - I be
We ended up with similar Sportrak bike rack (more expensive though) plus roof rack and Thule box (also expensive). Seems we should have bought a bigger vehicle!
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 83
Likes: 1
2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
I wonder that myself sometimes if I should have gotten an ML or even another E class (w/ fold down seats) since the trunk is bigger than the GLK. My sis has a GL but I feel that's too big. I liked the GLK more than the ML because of the drive but it's just too small... If you want to haul anything, a trailer is a must.
Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 138
Likes: 1
From: Trois Rivieres, Quebec
SLK 350 2013
It is small, ... but for my needs that's one of the reason's I got the GLK. After all, I only haul stuff on weekends ... which counts for less than 10% of my mileage.
If it's just light bulky items (like planks etc) I put on the roof rack and strap stuff to it.
I prefer to use a trailer anyway 'cause that way I don't bust up the interior of the car as often.
I guide for fishing on weekends, so all the dry boxes, baja bags, oars, camping stuff etc goes on the trailer. If I tried to stuff it in the car (seats down) I would always end up scrapping and scratching the interior. (not to mention 2-4 25lb salmon)
Hey ... I hope your cross country trip goes well.
Drive safe!
If it's just light bulky items (like planks etc) I put on the roof rack and strap stuff to it.
I prefer to use a trailer anyway 'cause that way I don't bust up the interior of the car as often.
I guide for fishing on weekends, so all the dry boxes, baja bags, oars, camping stuff etc goes on the trailer. If I tried to stuff it in the car (seats down) I would always end up scrapping and scratching the interior. (not to mention 2-4 25lb salmon)
Hey ... I hope your cross country trip goes well.
Drive safe!
Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 105
Likes: 0
From: Boston , MA
GLK250 BlueTec- 2014
Cheers
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 296
Likes: 23
From: Central coast California
2024 GLC300, 2014 BMW M235i
If you plan to tow a trailer that has electric brakes (not surge), you will have to install some sort of electric brake controller. I found out the hard way that the GLK does not have wiring in the dash for a controller as some vehicles do.
The easiest solution is to buy a Tekonsha Prodigy RF (wireless) electric brake controller. It is plug-and-play. If you want a conventional controller near the driver, you'll be forced to have more wiring installed in your vehicle. This could be very messy.
The easiest solution is to buy a Tekonsha Prodigy RF (wireless) electric brake controller. It is plug-and-play. If you want a conventional controller near the driver, you'll be forced to have more wiring installed in your vehicle. This could be very messy.
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used
Verdad Gallardo
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 83
Likes: 1
2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
I successfully towed a 6x12 Uhaul trailer at the end of March here in San Francisco. Was a short drive (less than 10 miles one way) but it seems like the GLK can handle a 6x12 up and down hills. I had approximately 2000 pounds in the trailer (1br apartment with Ikea furniture) loading the heavy stuff in the front.
It was a stressful and tough move as it was raining really hard that day and my wife wasn't able to help as she threw her back the week before. On top of that, my old HOA didn't allow me to move until the afternoon as someone else booked the elevator in the morning. But at least we now know the GLK can handle the load so we'll be making the move with the GLK to Canada in another few months.
I took a few pictures of the whole Uhaul setup. Please feel free to comment or ask questions. 😄
It was a stressful and tough move as it was raining really hard that day and my wife wasn't able to help as she threw her back the week before. On top of that, my old HOA didn't allow me to move until the afternoon as someone else booked the elevator in the morning. But at least we now know the GLK can handle the load so we'll be making the move with the GLK to Canada in another few months.
I took a few pictures of the whole Uhaul setup. Please feel free to comment or ask questions. 😄
Last edited by GLK350AMG; Apr 23, 2014 at 02:58 AM.
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
2015 GLK 250 BlueTek
Ok...getting in late on this but...here goes. Own the 2015 GLK and didn't get the tow hitch. Now I need one to pull a 21' SeaDoo (3200 lbs) plus the Karavan Trailer (800 lbs). Dealer states that due to warranty, I need to get the $925 hitch plus a inter-transmission cooler fan. Never heard of that. Question(s) are: 1) do I go with the MB hitch or after market? 2) do I need the inter-transmission cooler fan or a waste? 3) if after market, which hitch is rated best? 4) am I pushing it by towing a boat and trailer (slllllowly) to and from lake? I have seen other lesser qualified cars pulling boats and trailers. The hitch, fan and installation will run me $2450? Help!
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 445
Likes: 8
From: Tucson AZ
2010 Mercedes GLK 350, 2001 BMW Z3 3.0 Roadster, 1997 Cherokee XJ
The OEM hitch is a very high quality unit made by Westfalia. It integrates the hitch into the factory bumper reinforcement. There are two additional side supports which provide added strength. The OEM reinforcement weighs 13 lbs. & the piece with the hitch added weighs 48 lbs. Biggest limitation is tongue weight. One aspect of the OEM hitch is how unobtrusive it is compared to the aftermarket. I question the fan issue. There was one required on the earlier GLK's but that requirement has been dropped from what I have researched. Not certain about the newer models, especially the diesel. There is a picture or two out there of a GLK250 pulling a 27" Airstream, obviously not with the OEM hitch! Big advantage for towing with the GLK is the vehicle's short rear overhang.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 83
Likes: 1
2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
I read a big notice at Uhaul that a cooling fan was needed for all cars that were used for towing. Asked the technician there (he told me he's been installing trailer hitches for 15 years) and he said that was old news. He said most new vehicles don't need it, including my 2013 GLK350.
As you can see from my post below, I towed a big Uhaul (2 axles) with all my 1br furniture, clothes, sports equipment, etc. (about 3500lbs of stuff) across the country without any problems. I felt there was a little jerking sometimes when there were bumps on the road which made me worry a little, but other than that, everything was fine.
See my cross country trip here: https://mbworld.org/forums/glk-class...road-trip.html
As you can see from my post below, I towed a big Uhaul (2 axles) with all my 1br furniture, clothes, sports equipment, etc. (about 3500lbs of stuff) across the country without any problems. I felt there was a little jerking sometimes when there were bumps on the road which made me worry a little, but other than that, everything was fine.
See my cross country trip here: https://mbworld.org/forums/glk-class...road-trip.html
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
2015 GLK 250 BlueTek
Another question for Uhaul dude
Thanks guys. You have made my decision a lot easier. Another question for the Uhaul dude...did you have Uhaul install? I have researched on-line. As well as called Uhaul, and the specific Hitch assembly is not available yet for 2015 GLK 250 BT. Dunno why, checked e-trailer, etc. if anyone knows the specific part for trailer hitch and wiring kit, please include in this thread.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 445
Likes: 8
From: Tucson AZ
2010 Mercedes GLK 350, 2001 BMW Z3 3.0 Roadster, 1997 Cherokee XJ
Another option to consider would be to go with the aftermarket hitch of your choice but purchase the trailer wiring harness from MB. Not the cheapest method if that is your goal but it is plug & play without cutting wires. I have the p/n's for thru 2013 or so models & they might be good on the newer models. With the changes in the 2013 models, a new style of hitch is required. You might try www.etrailer.com for a source.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 83
Likes: 1
2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
Thanks guys. You have made my decision a lot easier. Another question for the Uhaul dude...did you have Uhaul install? I have researched on-line. As well as called Uhaul, and the specific Hitch assembly is not available yet for 2015 GLK 250 BT. Dunno why, checked e-trailer, etc. if anyone knows the specific part for trailer hitch and wiring kit, please include in this thread.
My landlord wanted us out as they wanted to sell their condo and wouldn't let me stay 3 more months. I did a test by moving across the city 3 months before my move across the country. Test was successful but I was worried at the beginning.
Last edited by GLK350AMG; Oct 21, 2014 at 06:50 PM.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 38
Likes: 1
From: Long Island, NY
2014 GLK 250
Just finished towing a U-haul 4x8 trailer 650 miles from NC to NY. I have a OEM hitch from the factory in my 250, and I really didn't notice the trailer at all. My avg mph was down to 25mpg with my cruise around 72-75mph up I-95. The only time I really noticed it was back on the horrible NY Roads from it bouncing all over the place. I only had it about half full, and loaded properly.
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
SLK350
Cdn dealer pricing:
$1164.00 OEM hitch includes wiring and module
$250.00 GLK-250 needs extra wiring harness
$480.00 GLK-250 needs a bumper panel
$600.00 Labour: approx.
I am hoping you might be able to take a pic of the underside view of the OEM hitch so I can see what that bumper panel looks like. The AMG chrome may be a problem for cutting the bumper panel but it could save me $480 if it looks doable. Regardless of what type of hitch I get, the panel will need to be altered.
Thanks,
Adrien.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 445
Likes: 8
From: Tucson AZ
2010 Mercedes GLK 350, 2001 BMW Z3 3.0 Roadster, 1997 Cherokee XJ
I would take a look on EBay for a late model rear bumper cover & the chrome trim piece if nothing else just to see what the parts look like. Unfortunately, OEM parts on line are not available yet for a 2015 but the 2014 is out there. As I recall, the AMG lower chrome panel is different with the hitch but the bumper cover itself should be okay. On the earlier models, the bumper cover had to be cut to allow room for the hitch & if needed, your bumper cover could likely be modified in the same manner.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 83
Likes: 1
2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
Hi GLK350AMG. I am hoping you might be able to take a pic of the underside view of the OEM hitch so I can see what that bumper panel looks like. The AMG chrome may be a problem for cutting the bumper panel but it could save me $480 if it looks doable. Regardless of what type of hitch I get, the panel will need to be altered.
Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 133
Likes: 11
From: Campbell, CA (San Francisco Bay Area)
2013 GLK250, 2022 Tesla MYLR, 1997 Correct Craft Ski Nautique
Folks, don't know how many of you that have towed Uhaul trailers are still on the forum after 6 years, but for anyone that towed UHaul's 6x12, a couple of questions:
* did you need extended door mirrors to see behind the trailer? When I'm pulling my boat I can't see directly behind me; have to wag my tail to see if anyone is directly behind me.
* did the UHaul folks give you any grief for towing their largest trailer with the GLK? Since you can't put the maximum trailer rated weight into the trailer due to the total towing capacity of the GLK, I wonder if they will hassle me. I'm doing a one-way towing trip. Weight will be light (sofa and a few other things; well under 1,000# of cargo.
I assume they will let me rent it, but I'm most concerned about whether I need extended mirrors.
Thanks,
Gordon
* did you need extended door mirrors to see behind the trailer? When I'm pulling my boat I can't see directly behind me; have to wag my tail to see if anyone is directly behind me.
* did the UHaul folks give you any grief for towing their largest trailer with the GLK? Since you can't put the maximum trailer rated weight into the trailer due to the total towing capacity of the GLK, I wonder if they will hassle me. I'm doing a one-way towing trip. Weight will be light (sofa and a few other things; well under 1,000# of cargo.
I assume they will let me rent it, but I'm most concerned about whether I need extended mirrors.
Thanks,
Gordon
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 571
Likes: 17
From: Redding, CA
'85 190D , '12 E350 BlueTec, '13 GLK 250 BlueTec
No extended mirrors needed. After my original post I towed U-Haul trail about on year later, about 250 miles with absolutely no problems in towing, visibility, nor from U-Haul. I couldn't even feel the trailer behind me and my interchange with U-Haul was all positive.
Senior Member
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 356
Likes: 33
From: NYC
glk
staying on slow lane, turning, braking on the freeway etc. I assume you had prior experience with trailers?
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 571
Likes: 17
From: Redding, CA
'85 190D , '12 E350 BlueTec, '13 GLK 250 BlueTec
No adjustments except maybe for stopping distance and keeping safe distance from cars ahead. Had much experience with small trailers hauling motorcycles and other toys behind both autos, campers and motorhomes. It's not rocket science. Most states have laws dealing with trailers. Follow the law.
Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 133
Likes: 11
From: Campbell, CA (San Francisco Bay Area)
2013 GLK250, 2022 Tesla MYLR, 1997 Correct Craft Ski Nautique
BTW, did anyone opt for the trailer towing package? We butter 2013 in 2015. I have not been able to find what was included in U trailer towing package other than they hitch. Was a larger radiator used a? A supplemental transmission cooler? Anything else? I normally only go 25 Miles round trip each week, so the car never works hard.
Ah, one other plus on the Expedition (the only other one) was self leveling air shocks. The glk squats a little in the rear.
Appreciate the info.
