Quote:
Originally Posted by Bayerische E53
Just found the E53 option code. JCL was correct. The option code increases tow capacity to 3500kg (7,700lbs) with a 12% gradient maximum. Actually, the standard towing capacity is also rated at a 12% gradient maximum. The increased towing capacity option was available for the V8 and I6 Diesel cars so I think it's now safe to say that concern here is power rather than chassis strength. As far as the chassis and suspension goes, it looks like the E53 is actually good for 7,700lbs per the manufacturer.
JCL, any input?
See below:
http://www.bmw.be/be/fr/newvehicles/..._datasheet.pdf |
I sold my E53 six years ago. Beyond that, I don't know why I remembered 7700/7900 lbs optional tow capacity that was only valid on another continent, but there you go.
Other input?
Good dig out on the old Euro spec sheet.
At least we are now dealing with the E53. I wouldn't keep referring to the E70, it is irrelevant. We need to know what the E53 Euro option code included. Because it was a zero cost option, I suspect it wasn't much. I can't recall the code number, but I suspect it wasn't 233 as the E70 is.
The E53 code specifically requires 18" and larger tires. So it looks like tire loading, and possibly dynamic stability, are issues.
The E53 code specifically excludes the manual transmission 3.0, which doesn't make sense if it just a chassis limitation. I suspect the driveline is not up to it, in BMW's opinion. BMW lets most of their Euro vehicles tow 3500 lbs, with far less HP than the X5 3.0 has. Even my 114 hp Volvo wagon towed 1600 kg/3500 lbs.
While the manufacturer has made reference to 7700 lbs, with specific options that you don't have, they have never permitted that load in North America. So, it may be a combination of mechanical changes and/or legal liability issues. The US hitch is also different, so that could be part of it.
I looked at your pictures of the trailer in another thread. That is a lot of trailer behind a 3.0, in my opinion. You will need to make sure your trailer brakes are working well. And all this speculation about ratings is not as important as driving habits when towing fully loaded, stopping for brake checks when descending mountain passes, etc.
Jeff