So, this weekend I towed my CSVT home to sell (DC - Ft Wayne, IN - ~600 miles). I finally got my Prodigy hooked up correctly Friday morning nad then headed out.
I figured my total weight to be pulling was ~4200lbs. I'm estimating the trailer to be ~1200 and the CSVT weights in just over 3000. I was actually amazed at how easily the little CRD pulled this thing, and with the single axle brakes how it stopped pretty good as well. However, the one thing I didn't like was the engine temps. In slow traffic with a load on the vehicle, the temp gauge rose, and would almost peg itself. However, once the load was removed and resumed cruising speed it dropped quickly. That lead me to be elieve the gauge was just uber sensitive. Going through the Appalachians I did have to slow down to about 50mph or so and lockout the O/D. Temps would rise during this time as I was going up hill. I was amazed at my fuel mileage at just under 19mpg the whole trip (per EVIC, I will figure actual tonight). I cruised at about 75mph on flat land with ease.
On the way back from Ft. Wayne to DC, I towed my brothers 88 Thunderbird TC which weighs in at about 3400lbs. I didn't position the car correctly on the trailer and bumps yanked me around quite a bit. AFter reposition the car a bit more towards the front it was a dream to pull. Same things as the previous tow were noted. I did turn up the Prodigy a bit to assist in braking. This time fuel mileage was in the mid 19s (per EVIC).
All in all, I was quite impressed with the little 2.8L CRD in its towing capabilities. next time I will have a water temp gauge installed to monitor, and maybe evne throw in a bottle of Redline Water Wetter.
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