Jamie Foust said:
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Ryan Press" <ryan@PRESSLAB.US>
> To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2004 4:05 PM
> Subject: Re: Towing a Vanagon with a Vanagon?
>
>
>>
>>
>> Semi tractor trailer trucks weigh up to 80,000 lbs and have about 300
>> hp..
>>  A ratio of 267:1!  It's all about torque, not horsepower, when towing
>> something heavy.
>>
>> Ryan
>
>
> Thats 80,000 gross, you need to recalculate. subtract the weight of the
> tractor from the equation.
> You are completely right about the torque.  You pay for horsepower, but
> buy
> for torque.
>
> jamie
>>
>

As the OP said, the weight of the vehicle, passengers, and luggage, was
included in that ratio.  That would be the total weight for both the tow
vehicle and whatever was being towed.

According to the tractor trailer ratio, a Vanagon can pull about 19,000
lbs!  I think it is not so simple that a ratio can be used.  A ratio with
torque would at least be more applicable.

Ryan