Standard towing capacity

[Denton Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Denton]

Hello,

I understand that the maximum towing capacity of a vehicle without braking is 750 kgs.

What is the towing capacity of my 2009 GXL, 3L Auto Diesel with no modifications? If I want to to tow more than 750kg, do I need to modify my vehicle and get some sort of brake controller for the trailer?

I already have a tow bar and plug. I've also towed a small caged trailer with no problem. I towed a bigger trailer (probably more than 750 kgs) and could feel the weight as I drove. I still could get around but needed to plan my braking.

I'm interested in hiring a small excavator on a trailer package from Coates and they said I need a 2.5t towing capacity but I don't know if I can tow over 750 kgs.

If I need to install a brake controller, is it something that I can do myself?

Thanks, in advance, for your assistance.
Denton

[amts Ninja Poster. Find all posts View Profile Close amts]

If the trailer has brakes, then you can tow it without any mods to your vehicle.

[404pug Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close 404pug]

2500 kg maximum towing but by law any trailer over 750kg must have brakes. They may be override mechanical or hydraulic, or electric. If the latter you will need an electric brake controller. No trailer brakes means no insurance.

[Piggy Water pistol pilot. Find all posts View Profile Close Piggy]

All hire places will have Mechanical or Hydraulic brakes, so as long as you are able to tow 2.5 tonne it will be compliant. You also need to overall be aware of how close you are to your GVM, and make sure the addition of the towball weight doesnt throw you over. No brake controller will be needed as the hire trailers are set up to be able to be used on anything.

[Denton Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Denton]

Thank you. That answers my questions. Seems like the smaller trailers (4x6) don’t have brakes but I’ll check if I hire a bigger trailer.

[amts Ninja Poster. Find all posts View Profile Close amts]

If you're hiring the package, it already comes with the trailer.