Took the towing (i.e. withidl) plunge...

[Bayerische E53]

Just checked the transmissions.

Automatic:
It looks like the European X5s got Getrag transmissions (A5S 390R - YZ) while the American X5s got some other brand (GA6HP26Z). Europe also got a different torque converter.

Manual:
It looks like both European and American X5s got Getrag manual transmissions. They are different, but not very. I'll have to check with Getrag on this.

American: GS6X37BZ - THEE & GS6X37BZ - THEX (RealOEM lists these as "GS6X37BZ/DZ" just like the DZ designation for the European models - likely, then, it's the "37" vs. the "53" that is the difference; could it be gear ratios? Strength? Who knows).
European: GS6X53DZ - THGE & GS6X53DZ - TJGB

Two problems: 1)none of these parts are labeled "For Vehicles with Increased Tow Capacity" so I don't know whether these parts were different on those vehicles and 2) I've got more questions now that I did before. Therefore, this was basically a useless exercise. What I need to do is talk to BMW and get precise part numbers.

[JCL]

The GM 390r transmission was for the six cylinder, in all markets. The ZF 6hp transmission was for the V8 models, in all markets. The diesels changed from early models to later models due to torque capacity of the GM transmission.

Trailer stability control is in the DSC, not the trailer package. I even have it on my E83, which is an E46 platform. It is activated by the factory wiring harness being connected, but it is already there, just dormant. Coding isn't required, as long as your vehicle software recognizes the towing harness.

You don't need a Cummins, that's an engine. You may need a 3/4 ton pickup.

[Bayerische E53]

Originally Posted by JCL

The GM 390r transmission was for the six cylinder, in all markets. The ZF 6hp transmission was for the V8 models, in all markets. The diesels changed from early models to later models due to torque capacity of the GM transmission.

Trailer stability control is in the DSC, not the trailer package. I even have it on my E83, which is an E46 platform. It is activated by the factory wiring harness being connected, but it is already there, just dormant. Coding isn't required, as long as your vehicle software recognizes the towing harness.

You don't need a Cummins, that's an engine. You may need a 3/4 ton pickup.

Cummins-powered [Dodge 2500] is what I meant. Not sure if you were being sarcastic there.

You really think a 2500 won't cut it?

[JCL]

No sarcasm, I should have used a smiley. I know that Dodge Rams have optional Cummins engines. It isn't the pickup I would choose.

A 2500 is a 3/4 ton pickup. I don't think a half ton pickup, whether an F150 or GMC 1500 or Ram 1500, will cut it. I work with Cummins engines. If you are looking at used, several years old, fine. If you are looking at new, check the recent history after the emissions controls were added.

[Bayerische E53]

Originally Posted by JCL

No sarcasm, I should have used a smiley. I know that Dodge Rams have optional Cummins engines. It isn't the pickup I would choose.

A 2500 is a 3/4 ton pickup. I don't think a half ton pickup, whether an F150 or GMC 1500 or Ram 1500, will cut it. I work with Cummins engines. If you are looking at used, several years old, fine. If you are looking at new, check the recent history after the emissions controls were added.

Right, my mistake. I'm looking at the older models. But how old are we talking here? I'm looking at nothing older than late 90s. I can pick up a Cummins 2500 Dually for something like $6,000 on Autotrader. Sheesh.

I can't afford the new ones, anyways - way too expensive; especially for a car I'll only use a dozen times a year.

What would you recommend? I would like something that's somewhat built well on the interior in addition to a bulletproof drivetrain (so, basically, not a Ford unless I could get a screaming deal on one). I'm thinking either Chevy or Dodge. Thoughts?

[JCL]

I wouldn't get dual rear wheels. Diesel would be impossible to justify for a dozen trips per year. If you are at least three years back the Ram is fine.

Two brothers run Ram diesels. One brother in law runs a GM HD diesel. All tow more than you will. I know the Fords, and would choose that brand. Everyone has their favorite. Not much to choose between any of them, but I wouldn't get a diesel for your duty cycle anyway.

I think the Cummins B is a good engine, but I personaly don't like the Ram trucks they come in.

Lots of people buy pickups and then never use them for what they were designed for. That is what you want, a commuter vehicle with an eight foot box that hasn't towed. Yet.