Quote:
Originally Posted by JCL
Couple of comments:
6000 lbs was the limit in North America. The same X5 vehicle in Europe had a higher published rating.
If you cause an accident, you cause an accident. Just because your trailer is under 6000 lbs doesn't make you not culpable.
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It does make a civil judgement oh so much easier if you are over weight. While not clear in my post, I was referring to the tort happy USA! Viva la multimillion dollar judgement! Even I could win a case where the load was heavier than the manufacturer's recommendation, and I'm merely an engineer (well, truth be told, a couple of different engineers wrapped into one -- neither of which drives a train...).
Quote:
Originally Posted by JCL
There is a big difference between an engineer with a very cautious approach and a lot of prep work towing 8300 lbs, vs someone bolting on a hitch and heading off with the same load.
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Yep, the big difference is that the engineer is putting themselves in a position to lose everything they own if they get into a wreck towing beyond the manufacturer's recommendation. Preponderance of evidence, not reasonable doubt comes into play in civil suits in the USA (lawyers, feel free to chime in here).
Everyone makes choices. Just be sure you are somewhat aware of the consequences of the choices you make.
The Hensley hitch is a marvelous piece of engineering (about $3k worth iirc) that will get you no where in court. It'll just help tie the rope around your neck tighter: "So, as an engineer you KNEW you were overloading your X5 and yet you RECKLESSLY did it anyway without any thought towards the havoc you would create on our nation's highways, putting mothers, babies, kittens, and puppies at risk? Yes or no answer please!" The winning lawyer, errr, plaintiff rests.
I'm not telling anyone what to do. I'm just sayin'...
Oh, my other, other vehicle is a Chevy crew cab dually diesel. I've towed a few times.