The hitch will have the weight rating stamped on it somewhere. Most are
1,100 pounds and some go as high as 1,500. That weight has been done but
I have seen the hooks break and the 2 bolt bracket attachment in the
sheet metal frame box can get deformed.

If you look at the weight rating sticker in you door jam, you will not
see a "Gross Combined Weight Rating", (GCWR). Yep, not approved for
towing anything. The owners manual somewhere I think says you can tow
1,100 pounds un-braked, 2,200 pounds with brakes. Most states require
brakes on trailers depending on weight. NY says brakes required at 1,000
pounds. This is law even if using Suburban. A break away system is also
required.

I've towed with a Vanagon and they pull surprisingly well. The low
gearing is very helpful.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Aaron
Sent: Thursday, May 05, 2005 1:39 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Towing limits

Hello all. I'm sure that this has been discussed before, but the
archives kept timing out on me.

I am thinking of towing a 1600LB trailer + around 500 pounds behind my
'85 vanagon. I have a towbar that is hooked to the rear towhooks and
not to the frame. Is this strong enough? What is the weight limit on
it? My Brakes are in good shape and I have a Subaru for power. I just
don't know what the tow limits are for the van and my tow setup.

Thanks!
Aaron