Towing a 2004 International CCD 28' with Lexus 450

[airstramfilm]

Hi,

I am new to the forums so I apologize if this question has been covered before. We purchased a second airstream, a 28' International CCD (2008) not realizing that its weight (7,500 plus) exceeded the 'reported' towing capacity of our Lexus LX 450 (1996), which is 5,000 pounds--we used it to tow our other 26' 1968 Airstream.

Can I tow the 28' with my Lexus and just risk not to be able to get everywhere (i.e. steep uphills)? Or, I should not even try to do it because it is risky to me and others on the road? If I had to rent a vehicle for the sole purpose of towing it, what would be the best vehicle to rent, and are there rental companies specialized in towing vehicles?

Thanks,

Claudio

[RLS]

I would not use it. If you had an accident, you could be in a world of trouble on the liability end. I would also look at the tongue weight. I bet it is way over what you are able to carry. JMHO

[moosetags]

First off,. welcome the the Forums. We're glad to have you with us.

As to your question, I think that your Lexus would not make a good match for your 28 CCD. Your Airstream will probably go close to 8000# ready to camp, and the tongue weight will most likely exceed 1000#.

You would be flirting with disaster if you used a tow vehicle rated for on 5000#.

Brian

[Foiled Again]

Why?

Because with this crappy economy people are unloading work trucks right and left. Plumbers, electricians, contractors - who bought and bought until the market collapsed are getting rid of trucks and laying off workers. I know a plumber who had 8 vans or pickup trucks and is now down to two. All six he unloaded were 3/4 ton vehicles less than 2 years old.

If you're going to be towing frequently, it would pay you to pick up a used F250 or Chevy 2500. If you only go out 3-4 times per year, renting one isn't impossible, but most businesses don't like to rent vehicles that will be used for towing. U-haul or other truck rental places might be the exception. Of course you could probably also borrow one from a friend - especially if you swapped the Lexus for the duration of the trip. Just know each other's driving record and assure that you're both properly insured.

Good luck. Paula

[SilverKing]

You might want to test drive the new 2011 Ford F-250 diesel. Lots of pull power, great payload capacity and extra quiet.

[Road Ruler]

Paula, from a Lexus to a ex plumber's truck. Seems sacrilegious.

There's gotta be a better way.

Have all avenues of the poster's questions been investigated??

[Foiled Again]

Originally Posted by Road Ruler

Paula, from a Lexus to a ex plumber's truck. Seems sacrilegious.

There's gotta be a better way.

Have all avenues of the poster's questions been investigated??

I know, I HAD a Lexus when I bought my first Airstream!
Caddy Escalade might be possible as a tow vehicle, but I tried to offer an idea that would allow for keeping the Lex. With a 28 I'd prefer a straight 3/4 ton - and of course if you go with a loaded GMC or Ford you can get the "Lexus like" features. Almost hate to call them trucks they are so tricked out.

Paula

[68 TWind]

A friend just purchased a brand new F250. It is awesome and very quiet compared to the older models. Get the King Ranch trim package and you will have all the fancy stuff your Lexus does plus lots more towing ability.