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Hi, I'm looking to chop my car in so that I can consider a heavier van in the next couple of years.  I've noticed vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Skoda Superb have manufacturers tow limits of much more than the kerb weight of the car.

Couple of questions on this, does anyone know how this is worked out by the manufacturer, and is it really safe in a situation where you have to stop swiftly.

My gut instinct is to stick to the 85% rule no matter what Ford and Skoda say, I can't see how 1800kg can be stopped quickly by 1550 kg.  Physics being what it is and all.

Tony B

The tow limit is for trailers other than caravans. You should stick to the 85%.

Jim

Quote: Originally posted by Tony B52 on 13/9/2011

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Couple of questions on this, does anyone know how this is worked out by the manufacturer, and is it really safe in a situation where you have to stop swiftly.

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The max. towing figure also takes no account of the profile of the load, only the capability of the car.

My car also has a max figure of 3500kgs and it is also within the max train weight but I would hate to think what would happen if the wind got to a caravan of that weight.

As others have said, safe for experienced towers to go over 85% with a well balanced van and a correct set-up but would never consider going over 100%.