Towing Question 200TDI

[slej]

Hi Guys,
I have a question sbaout towing with my 200tdi.
I have been told not to tow a trailer in 5th gear (as is supposedly with most cars) I am going from Melb to Addy at Xmas time and am towing my sportsbike accross in a 6x4 trailer.

Will using 5th gear on the long 110 and 100 zones really matter? Be a bit cheaper on diesal in 5th, but if it is at the cost of a gearbox rebuild it really is a false economy.

Any advice appreciated.

Andy

[maca]

Your car is not going to notice the extra 200/300 Kilos hanging off the back.
The use 4th instead of 5th is generally reserved for heavy loads. Ie not a bike in a 6*4.
A heavy caravan or loaded car trailer, well then probably yes (mind you Ive never worried too much about it, 5th on straights, 4th for hills and overtaking).

It is also somewhat dependent on your tyre size.

[long stroke]

Your car is not going to notice the extra 200/300 Kilos hanging off the back.
The use 4th instead of 5th is generally reserved for heavy loads. Ie not a bike in a 6*4.
A heavy caravan or loaded car trailer, well then probably yes (mind you Ive never worried too much about it, 5th on straights, 4th for hills and overtaking).

It is also somewhat dependent on your tyre size.

x2:)

[slug_burner]

x2:)

x3.

[rovercare]

x3.

x4:)

[rovercare]

The reasoning in not towing in 5th, is its an overdrive gear, not supported the same way INSIDE the gearbag, its a tack on on the end and substantially weaker than the rest, so no loading it up in 5th with wieght on, but if your cruising and it pulls 5th comfortably, go ahead