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Old October 15th 08, 07:30 PM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
Udo Rumpf[_2_]
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Posts: 49
Default Glider towing with 08 Honda CR-V?

The comment below may not directly apply.
I have towed a few different glider trailers with different tow vehicles.
I assumed if one unit tows well, the next identical trailer, with the same
weight layout (I am not yet talking about the axel placement) would tow
alike.

My last experience was revealing. I picked up my new to me cobra trailer
with the same loading as my previous cobra trailer.
I noticed, as soon I hit the high way, it towed not as well as the
previous one. I normally drive 75-80 m/h when legal and suitable. I had to
reduce the speed to below 70 m/h

As soon I got home and backed into my drive way I noticed that
the trailer wheels did not align with my marks on the asphalt,
which I use to help backup the other trailer with ease. The axel was 12"
forward of the other cobra trailer. This original trailer set-up,
including the glider came from Schleicher and Cobra. My other trailer,
which towed so well, came for the same the sources. It shows that the
trailer people do not pay attention to details.

I can assure you that if the set up is right, the safe speed
if quite high. As I drove the first cobra trailer and content across
the western states from Nevada to Ontario with a Ford extended Aero star
which was not the greatest tow vehicle. I was able to maintain a
comfortable high speed, till I got back to the more eastern regions were
slower speed limits are enforced. I use now Honda Odyssey for towing and
your Honda CRV should be just fine.
Udo


At 15:30 15 October 2008, Tuno wrote:
I just bought a 2008 CR-V with no expectation of towing anything with
it, but the book says it will tow up to 1500 pounds, so now I'm
wondering if it would be worthwhile to add a hitch so I can tow a
utility trailer, and the glider for short hauls or when the primary
tow vehicle isn't available.

I imagine the top towing speed would be pretty limited ... the Honda
Pilot I used a few years ago was subject to fishtailing above ~63 mph,
regardless of the trailer tongue weight. With a shorter wheel base,
the CR-V would likely be worse. Does anyone have any experience towing
a glider behind this generation CR-V?

Thanks

~ted/2NO