I've made numerous posts on Bimmer.org regarding towing and the capabilities of the X5, but because a "picture is worth a thousand words" I'm attaching one of my assembly for those who might be interested.
Following are some statistics on the assembly:
BMW X5
*2001 April build
*All options except phone & load floor
*4.4i with Sports Package (rear axle has air suspension)
*Dinan throttle body, engine & trans software (298 hp & 350+ #' torque)
*Current miles = 60,369 (engine oil consumption = 1 pint every 6,500 miles)
*Hitch is the BMW OEM hitch (I installed it)
*Average city mpg = 13 to 17 (basis number of stop lights)
*Average highway mpg = 18 to 22 (basis wind direction)
*Average towing mpg = 8 to 12 (basis wind direction)
Airstream
*2002 (May 2001 build) 31 foot Classic Limited
*GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) 8,300# (have loaded it to 8,900+#)
*Tongue weight 750 to 1,000 pounds (weight distributed)
*Miles towed by X5 = 20,706
Hensley Arrow
*Towing interface (orange component between the X5 & Airstream)
*Totally negates sway via mechanical geometry (no friction involved)
*Incorporates weight distribution springs with jack screws
*Web site =
http://nosway.com/
