Thanks for all the input! I get the message- I guess I'll use my SLK!

Ha... Well you'll be able to pull 5,000 lbs. Think about it.. I can push a 4,000 lbs car that has broken down....that's not the problem..

The problem is the tranny. I destroyed a front clutch pack in my 190 just going up a hill too fast when the car was loaded with really heavy stuff. Most cars are limited by their tranny...you're putting severe wear on that thing as the tires resists being turned. All that torque is in the driveline and the small-build tranny pays the price. That's why big rigs have drivelines that snap on purpose....so the tranny is unaffected. Do it if you aren't too concerned about replacing your tranny or being stuck somewhere. I suggest sticking to 1st and 2nd gears. The dealer was definitely being disingenous when he said it's no problem. It's definitely a problem, but it depends on how much you value your tranny.

I've heard a quote on this subject - I can't remember the source but it goes something like this....

There is a big difference between a vehicle that is made for towing and a vehicle that can tow. Your E300D is NOT even in the category of "can tow"

I've got 50k+ miles of towing experience and I can tell you don't tow a 30 foot airstream with a W124 Mercedes.

That's a joke, right?

I tow my 2700 lb boat with my '85 300TD. THe braking is defintely marginal, and top speed is 55 - 60 mph. I think 5000 lbs is too much - especially if you would like to stop.