Towing Issues: Can a 1998 Bonneville tow more than 1,000 lbs?, folding camper, intents and purposes


Question
Hi, I have a 1998, V6, SE, Bonneville, with 30K miles. Seems the towing rating is listed at 1,000 lbs. I was told that there was a towing package available back in 98 that increased this to 3,500 lbs.

What was included in this package? Can I upgrade
the Bonneville with these options now?

I need to be able to tow a 2,000 lb folding camper, that has electric brakes.

thanks...

Answer
For all intents and purposes, the tow rating in your owner's manual is only an indication of what the manufacturer has designed the car to be able to pull.  It is also the working limit for your warranty.  Since the car is out of warranty, I wouldn't worry too much about the rating in the owner's manual.  

If you want to tow 2,000lbs, I would add a transmission cooler and ensure your hitch is rated to pull the load.  

You may also want to check your local laws/by-laws to be sure that your vehicle will be allowed to tow that much weight.  Different areas control trailer weights in different ways.  Some use a Gross Combined Weight Rating while other rely on the weight rating of the rear axle...

Use good equipment with the proper training and all should be well,
Shayne Peterson
MobileHitch
http://www.mobilehitch.ca/