Quote:
Originally Posted by pdrayton
First off, towing ratings / specifications for the mercedes W123 are 750KG (~1650lbs) unbraked, 1500KG (~3300lbs) braked, but only in Europe. Apparently if you use the same car in the USA you can't tow with it, according to Mercedes USA . There is some speculation as to why this is, but no-one really knows, at least not anyone I read from.
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In Europe, the hitches that are fitted have extensive bracing in the rear body channels and a massive cross piece under the rear bumper. I had an '85 300 TD Euro (non-turbo, 5 spd) that I fitted a Euro hitch, and I've also put one on my '87 300TD. Both were aftermarket but fit extremely well and are VERY solid. I bought both in Italy while on vacation (U.S. Customs was rather curious!). Neither one attaches to the bumper; all the attachment points are on the body.
I tow my sailboat, which on the trailer is about 2500 lbs.
Attached is diagram from the EPC which gives an idea of the bracing.