Towing a Uhaul trailer with original Mercedes hitch
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Joined: Feb 2014
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2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
Towing a Uhaul trailer with original Mercedes hitch
I did some searching around but didn't find any posters talking about towing a trailer with their GLK. I need to move across the country and can't seem to figure out how big of a Uhual trailer I can use on my GLK350 4Matic.
I found some info about a GL pulling a trailer here: https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...iler-long.html
Does anyone have any pictures or idea how big of a trailer I can safely pull with my GLK350 4Matic?
I found some info about a GL pulling a trailer here: https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...iler-long.html
Does anyone have any pictures or idea how big of a trailer I can safely pull with my GLK350 4Matic?
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2011
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From: Redding, CA
'85 190D , '12 E350 BlueTec, '13 GLK 250 BlueTec
"Big" isn't the issue. It's weight. Hitch is rated @ 3500#. Even then your stopping distance will be affected. You can likely exceed that weight safely as the same hitch is rated higher in Europe, but I sure wouldn't. Your weight distribution in the trailer will matter as will the tongue weight. That would be most critical. Follow guidelines in your owner's manual.
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Have you asked u-haul?
When i have rented trailers, they have checked the towing capacity of my vehicle before agreeing to the rental.
So far as i know, limit is 3000lbs, but there may be an issue with how to provide adequate braking.
When i have rented trailers, they have checked the towing capacity of my vehicle before agreeing to the rental.
So far as i know, limit is 3000lbs, but there may be an issue with how to provide adequate braking.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 445
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From: Tucson AZ
2010 Mercedes GLK 350, 2001 BMW Z3 3.0 Roadster, 1997 Cherokee XJ
If going cross country, why not do a truck & a car trailer? Much easier on the GLK & your nerves. Go with what MB recommends not U-Haul. The small size of the OEM receiver may preclude you from utilising a rental trailer. Good luck & safe travels!
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 334
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From: Northern California
2016 GLE300d 4Matic
The GLK hitch receiver is a 1 7/8" ball which is a Class I rated to 3500 lbs. The most common sizes out there are Class II or III with a 2" ball. Not interchangeable safely. When talking to UHaul make sure they are talking a Class I with the 1 7/8" ball and you should be good. Watch your overall weight carefully. You Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) which is everything - SUV, trailer, people, stuff and gas can't be exceeded safely. It's placarded in the door jamb.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 571
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From: Redding, CA
'85 190D , '12 E350 BlueTec, '13 GLK 250 BlueTec
You CAN use a 2" ball in the Class 1 hitch without problems or safety concerns. Just clarifying. As a matter of fact, most U Hauls have 2" hitches. I have both ***** for mine. The 2" hitch is by far the most common.
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'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
Did you ever looked at using a reputable vehicle transporter to move your GLK and rent a U-haul truck and use that instead. No stress of damaging your GLK or getting into a nasty accident. Although it might cost you more money or maybe not.
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2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
Thank-you to everyone for replying. 
I actually bought the GLK to tow my furniture/clothes back home to Canada. Originally I considered just buying the GLK when I got home (in Canada or Washington state), but I didn't want to wait, and I figured out that it was cheaper for me to rent a Uhaul trailer and buy the GLK locally (and pay sales in California taxes) since I wasn't leaving for another 6 months.
I actually did my research on the Uhaul website and I also recently went into one of their stores but found out that that specific store didn't rent trailers (only trucks). The Uhaul website was a bit confusing for me and I haven't had a chance to drive across town to Uhaul trailer rental place.
I always thought the receiver opening was 2"? Am I misunderstanding something? Then all I need is to purchase a 2" ball. Is this correct?
Looked for the label on the OEM hitch... I saw two numbers 3500lbs and 280lbs but the other words were too small for me to see clearly. Can I assume I can tow 3500lbs (incl trailer weight) total?
I actually bought the GLK to tow my furniture/clothes back home to Canada. Originally I considered just buying the GLK when I got home (in Canada or Washington state), but I didn't want to wait, and I figured out that it was cheaper for me to rent a Uhaul trailer and buy the GLK locally (and pay sales in California taxes) since I wasn't leaving for another 6 months.
I actually did my research on the Uhaul website and I also recently went into one of their stores but found out that that specific store didn't rent trailers (only trucks). The Uhaul website was a bit confusing for me and I haven't had a chance to drive across town to Uhaul trailer rental place.
I always thought the receiver opening was 2"? Am I misunderstanding something? Then all I need is to purchase a 2" ball. Is this correct?
Looked for the label on the OEM hitch... I saw two numbers 3500lbs and 280lbs but the other words were too small for me to see clearly. Can I assume I can tow 3500lbs (incl trailer weight) total?
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Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 571
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From: Redding, CA
'85 190D , '12 E350 BlueTec, '13 GLK 250 BlueTec
Yes.
That's gross vehicle weight. The other number is the tongue weight.
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Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2,118
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'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
Thank-you to everyone for replying.
I actually bought the GLK to tow my furniture/clothes back home to Canada. Originally I considered just buying the GLK when I got home (in Canada or Washington state), but I didn't want to wait, and I figured out that it was cheaper for me to rent a Uhaul trailer and buy the GLK locally (and pay sales in California taxes) since I wasn't leaving for another 6 months.
I actually did my research on the Uhaul website and I also recently went into one of their stores but found out that that specific store didn't rent trailers (only trucks). The Uhaul website was a bit confusing for me and I haven't had a chance to drive across town to Uhaul trailer rental place.
I always thought the receiver opening was 2"? Am I misunderstanding something? Then all I need is to purchase a 2" ball. Is this correct?
Looked for the label on the OEM hitch... I saw two numbers 3500lbs and 280lbs but the other words were too small for me to see clearly. Can I assume I can tow 3500lbs (incl trailer weight) total?
I actually bought the GLK to tow my furniture/clothes back home to Canada. Originally I considered just buying the GLK when I got home (in Canada or Washington state), but I didn't want to wait, and I figured out that it was cheaper for me to rent a Uhaul trailer and buy the GLK locally (and pay sales in California taxes) since I wasn't leaving for another 6 months.
I actually did my research on the Uhaul website and I also recently went into one of their stores but found out that that specific store didn't rent trailers (only trucks). The Uhaul website was a bit confusing for me and I haven't had a chance to drive across town to Uhaul trailer rental place.
I always thought the receiver opening was 2"? Am I misunderstanding something? Then all I need is to purchase a 2" ball. Is this correct?
Looked for the label on the OEM hitch... I saw two numbers 3500lbs and 280lbs but the other words were too small for me to see clearly. Can I assume I can tow 3500lbs (incl trailer weight) total?
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 571
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From: Redding, CA
'85 190D , '12 E350 BlueTec, '13 GLK 250 BlueTec
Class I and Class II receivers are both 1¼" but the Class II is rated to 3500#. Since M-B says limit is 3500, the factory receiver would be a Class II. The type of receiver and mounting apparently differentiates the two. I couldn't find anything in the manual that rates the receiver but that's not saying it's not there.
Newbie
Joined: Feb 2014
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2014 GLK250
Not a reply on the trailer hitch, but as someone who has imported a vehicle from the US let me just raise a couple of points. You HAVE to supply the US Border Services with paperwork to export the vehicle a minimum of 3 business days before you cross the border and you HAVE to have a letter (sometimes it can be found on the manufacturers website) that there are no recalls listed against the vehicle. Other than that it's pretty darn easy. We imported a Sprinter van and saved almost 50% from the Canadian prices. Depending upon how they view the build of the vehicle and free trade issues (as this is built in Germany) there may not be any customs duties. Here is a great website to review all of the info for bringing the vehicle into Canada and registering it. Good luck!
www.riv.ca
www.riv.ca
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
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2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
shotgun_banjo and Guitarick,
I'm not worried about the import issue. I've imported a 2003 E class (W211) and a Honda CBR600F many years ago. On top of that, my spouse is moving/immigrating to Canada with me so they are exempt from taxes for their first vehicle.
The 2013 GLK has day time running lights built in and I don't plan on switching to the MB Canada warranty. I actually bought an extended warranty for the vehicle and plan on servicing it in America. I also have the recall/service letter already (requested from dealer when I purchased the vehicle). I plan on getting the approval through Crappy Tire (Canadian Tire). Am I missing anything else?
Regarding gross weight and tongue weight. How do I know how much weight is on the tongue after I load up the Uhaul?
I'm not worried about the import issue. I've imported a 2003 E class (W211) and a Honda CBR600F many years ago. On top of that, my spouse is moving/immigrating to Canada with me so they are exempt from taxes for their first vehicle.
The 2013 GLK has day time running lights built in and I don't plan on switching to the MB Canada warranty. I actually bought an extended warranty for the vehicle and plan on servicing it in America. I also have the recall/service letter already (requested from dealer when I purchased the vehicle). I plan on getting the approval through Crappy Tire (Canadian Tire). Am I missing anything else?
Regarding gross weight and tongue weight. How do I know how much weight is on the tongue after I load up the Uhaul?
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 571
Likes: 17
From: Redding, CA
'85 190D , '12 E350 BlueTec, '13 GLK 250 BlueTec
Newbie
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
2014 GLK250
shotgun_banjo and Guitarick,
The 2013 GLK has day time running lights built in and I don't plan on switching to the MB Canada warranty. I actually bought an extended warranty for the vehicle and plan on servicing it in America. I also have the recall/service letter already (requested from dealer when I purchased the vehicle). I plan on getting the approval through Crappy Tire (Canadian Tire). Am I missing anything else?
The 2013 GLK has day time running lights built in and I don't plan on switching to the MB Canada warranty. I actually bought an extended warranty for the vehicle and plan on servicing it in America. I also have the recall/service letter already (requested from dealer when I purchased the vehicle). I plan on getting the approval through Crappy Tire (Canadian Tire). Am I missing anything else?
Good news on the tax exemption for the import!
Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 105
Likes: 0
From: Boston , MA
GLK250 BlueTec- 2014
shotgun_banjo and Guitarick,
I'm not worried about the import issue. I've imported a 2003 E class (W211) and a Honda CBR600F many years ago. On top of that, my spouse is moving/immigrating to Canada with me so they are exempt from taxes for their first vehicle.
The 2013 GLK has day time running lights built in and I don't plan on switching to the MB Canada warranty. I actually bought an extended warranty for the vehicle and plan on servicing it in America. I also have the recall/service letter already (requested from dealer when I purchased the vehicle). I plan on getting the approval through Crappy Tire (Canadian Tire). Am I missing anything else?
Regarding gross weight and tongue weight. How do I know how much weight is on the tongue after I load up the Uhaul?
I'm not worried about the import issue. I've imported a 2003 E class (W211) and a Honda CBR600F many years ago. On top of that, my spouse is moving/immigrating to Canada with me so they are exempt from taxes for their first vehicle.
The 2013 GLK has day time running lights built in and I don't plan on switching to the MB Canada warranty. I actually bought an extended warranty for the vehicle and plan on servicing it in America. I also have the recall/service letter already (requested from dealer when I purchased the vehicle). I plan on getting the approval through Crappy Tire (Canadian Tire). Am I missing anything else?
Regarding gross weight and tongue weight. How do I know how much weight is on the tongue after I load up the Uhaul?>> Curious to see how you went with the "import" into Canada.
A good friend of mine wants to buy my GLK250BT ..... so would be keen to get a bit more details so I can help HER make this process a bit easier for her
I read the website(s) RIS and .gov and the process seems not to big a deal for GLK - except like Guit* mentioned - the big $$ towards MB dealership ( since there is ONE MB DEALEAR in her town) it be even more head-aches for her ( as they just plain suck! even when I was there!)
thanks in advance
Mike
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Joined: Feb 2014
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2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
miked807: Last time I imported the E class we ended up going through Mercedes Canada, which charged me an arm and a leg to modify the speedometer, bumpers, and day time running lights. I remember it being around 3-5k $CDN. Total rip off.
If you private message me your email, I can send you document that details what you need to do to import a vehicle from America.
I read on another forum stating that you don't need to go to Mercedes Canada to get the compliance letter if you don't plan on getting them to give you a Canadian warranty. (https://mbworld.org/forums/w219/3403...-s-canada.html)
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Joined: Aug 2008
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Back to your towing question. U-haul have everything you need to know about their trailers on their website. Here is an example:
http://www.uhaul.com/Reservations/Eq....aspx?model=RV
With that trailer, you would get a lot of volume, but be limited to about 1500lb of cargo weight. Trailer comes with surge brakes so no car connection needed. You would need a 7 - 4 pin adapter for lights. You will also need a tow bar with 1 7/8 or 2in ball.
You can measure tongue weight with a scale perhaps uhaul have one. Problem is usually not having enough tongue weight. Uhaul suggestions putting heavy items at front of trailer, no doubt for this reason.
I have oe hitch on my glk250. I wouldn't tow much of a load with it. I have done a lot of towing of boats with larger vehicles. I would go with a smaller trailer than the one I linked above if you really want to do this. Another option might be to go with uhaul truck and a flatbed trailer for GLK.
http://www.uhaul.com/Reservations/Eq....aspx?model=RV
With that trailer, you would get a lot of volume, but be limited to about 1500lb of cargo weight. Trailer comes with surge brakes so no car connection needed. You would need a 7 - 4 pin adapter for lights. You will also need a tow bar with 1 7/8 or 2in ball.
You can measure tongue weight with a scale perhaps uhaul have one. Problem is usually not having enough tongue weight. Uhaul suggestions putting heavy items at front of trailer, no doubt for this reason.
I have oe hitch on my glk250. I wouldn't tow much of a load with it. I have done a lot of towing of boats with larger vehicles. I would go with a smaller trailer than the one I linked above if you really want to do this. Another option might be to go with uhaul truck and a flatbed trailer for GLK.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 83
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2013 GLK350 4-Matic & 2003 E320
Thanks for the response, 107123210.
I actually didn't see the page you sent above when I was on the Uhaul website. I also noticed a link just now that might help others that have similar questions as myself: http://www.uhaul.com/Tips/TowingTips.aspx
Regarding the 7 to 4 pin adapter, is that only for the lights? Will this one work?
Are surge brakes safe? Are there trailers that use electronic brakes?
I'm considering the 5'x10' cargo trailer for the move. I originally thought about using a flatbed trailer for the GLK with a Uhaul truck also but the cost would have been a lot higher than just renting the trailer. If you are towing the correct weight, does towing do any damage to your car? I have a bunch of Ikea furniture (small sofa, dining table, chairs, mattress, bed), a flat screen tv, kitchen accessories, and clothes. I suspect it'll only be about 1500-2000lbs total.
I actually didn't see the page you sent above when I was on the Uhaul website. I also noticed a link just now that might help others that have similar questions as myself: http://www.uhaul.com/Tips/TowingTips.aspx
Regarding the 7 to 4 pin adapter, is that only for the lights? Will this one work?
Are surge brakes safe? Are there trailers that use electronic brakes?
I'm considering the 5'x10' cargo trailer for the move. I originally thought about using a flatbed trailer for the GLK with a Uhaul truck also but the cost would have been a lot higher than just renting the trailer. If you are towing the correct weight, does towing do any damage to your car? I have a bunch of Ikea furniture (small sofa, dining table, chairs, mattress, bed), a flat screen tv, kitchen accessories, and clothes. I suspect it'll only be about 1500-2000lbs total.
Last edited by GLK350AMG; Mar 22, 2014 at 01:06 AM.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2008
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Uhaul say you need a 4-pin flat connector. That is why you need a 7 to 4 pin adapter. You can get them most places including likely uhaul. I think I have seen them at walmart anf harbor freight. Under $10.
Surge brakes should be fine if you don't overload the trailer. Justbdrive carefully, especially downhill. The glk is not wired for electronic trailer braking, and nor are the uhaul trailers. I always had them, but that was with heavier loads.
If you stay under 3500lb and avoid mountains where you might strain the transmission, car should be okay.
Surge brakes should be fine if you don't overload the trailer. Justbdrive carefully, especially downhill. The glk is not wired for electronic trailer braking, and nor are the uhaul trailers. I always had them, but that was with heavier loads.
If you stay under 3500lb and avoid mountains where you might strain the transmission, car should be okay.
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Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 689
Likes: 30
Uhaul say you need a 4-pin flat connector. That is why you need a 7 to 4 pin adapter. You can get them most places including likely uhaul. I think I have seen them at walmart anf harbor freight. Under $10.
brakes should be fine if you don't overload the trailer. Justbdrive carefully, especially downhill. The glk is not wired for electronic trailer braking, and nor are the uhaul trailers. I always had them, but that was with heavier loads.
If you stay under 3500lb and avoid mountains where you might strain the transmission, car should be okay.
brakes should be fine if you don't overload the trailer. Justbdrive carefully, especially downhill. The glk is not wired for electronic trailer braking, and nor are the uhaul trailers. I always had them, but that was with heavier loads.
If you stay under 3500lb and avoid mountains where you might strain the transmission, car should be okay.
Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 105
Likes: 0
From: Boston , MA
GLK250 BlueTec- 2014
Thanks for the response, 107123210.
I actually didn't see the page you sent above when I was on the Uhaul website. I also noticed a link just now that might help others that have similar questions as myself: http://www.uhaul.com/Tips/TowingTips.aspx
Regarding the 7 to 4 pin adapter, is that only for the lights? Will this one work? Amazon.com: Attwood Trailer Adapter (7-to-5 way connector): Sports & Outdoors
Are surge brakes safe? Are there trailers that use electronic brakes?
I'm considering the 5'x10' cargo trailer for the move. I originally thought about using a flatbed trailer for the GLK with a Uhaul truck also but the cost would have been a lot higher than just renting the trailer. If you are towing the correct weight, does towing do any damage to your car? I have a bunch of Ikea furniture (small sofa, dining table, chairs, mattress, bed), a flat screen tv, kitchen accessories, and clothes. I suspect it'll only be about 1500-2000lbs total.
I actually didn't see the page you sent above when I was on the Uhaul website. I also noticed a link just now that might help others that have similar questions as myself: http://www.uhaul.com/Tips/TowingTips.aspx
Regarding the 7 to 4 pin adapter, is that only for the lights? Will this one work? Amazon.com: Attwood Trailer Adapter (7-to-5 way connector): Sports & Outdoors
Are surge brakes safe? Are there trailers that use electronic brakes?
I'm considering the 5'x10' cargo trailer for the move. I originally thought about using a flatbed trailer for the GLK with a Uhaul truck also but the cost would have been a lot higher than just renting the trailer. If you are towing the correct weight, does towing do any damage to your car? I have a bunch of Ikea furniture (small sofa, dining table, chairs, mattress, bed), a flat screen tv, kitchen accessories, and clothes. I suspect it'll only be about 1500-2000lbs total.
Few helpful links / products of items I have/am using on my GLK250
a) http://www.walmart.com/ip/Reese-Towp...w-Bar/15125803 = RECEIVER
b) http://www.stainles****chballs.com/ = TOW BALL
c) http://www.stainles****chballs.com/h..._guide_new.jpg = TOW WEIGHT GUIDES
d) http://www.stainles****chballs.com/t..._only_new2.jpg
f) http://www.stainles****chballs.com/receiverlocks.aspx
f) http://www.jcwhitney.com/lund-univer...wx?filterid=u0
g) http://www.jcwhitney.com/curt-t-conn.../p2018063.jcwx
h) http://www.jcwhitney.com/lund-univer...?filterid=u0j2
>hope this is helpful to someone.... These are/is what I am using for my 7mth long ROAD trip around "North America's"
Cheers
Last edited by miked807; Mar 26, 2014 at 12:05 PM. Reason: updated links
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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.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 689
Likes: 30
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.
