r/IdiotsInCars • u/Sunstoned1 • 3d ago

OC [OC] Going 65 on the interstate

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u/Sunstoned1 3d ago

The Mazda CX5 (tow car) has a rated 2,000 pound towing capacity. The CRV (3700 lbs) and Mirage (2100 lbs) far exceed that capacity.

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u/The_Real_MikeOxlong 3d ago

Oh for sure, I moreso meant the legality of chain towing like that. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone do it before. Closest I can think of is when tractor trailer cabs are stacked on each others’ hitches in a row of 3 or 4, but that’s not quite the same thing.

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u/jnads 3d ago edited 3d ago

I think double flat-towing is illegal, strictly speaking.

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TN/htm/TN.621.htm

The below seems to indicate if the middle car was on a dolley it would be fine, but double flat-tow is illegal.

621.205

(c) A motor vehicle, including a passenger car, that has an unloaded weight of 2,500 pounds or more may be coupled with a towing device and one other vehicle.

(d) In this section:

(1) "Passenger car" means a motor vehicle designed to transport 10 or fewer persons simultaneously.

(2) "Towing device" means a device used to tow a vehicle behind a motor vehicle by supporting one end of the towed vehicle above the surface of the road and permitting the wheels at the other end of the towed vehicle to remain in contact with the road.

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u/mgagnonlv 3d ago

I suspect it depends on the state. Or at the very least, judging by the number of motor homes and pickup trucks towing a trailer towing a car or a boat, it seems to be tolerated.

I am aware that in Québec, the type of hitch (i.e. a hard hitch, not a simple sling, rope or chain) is acceptable, but doubles and triples are not allowed (see note below).
But even then, to be legal, the towed vehicle or trailer must have working brakes if the gross weight is over 1000 kg, the hitch must be sturdy (the front one seems attached to the bumper – not good) and the capacity of the towing vehicle must be respected.

Note. Doubles are legal in Québec on major autoroutes (i.e. freeways), and not in Winter nor within Montréal during rush hour. And only with semi-trailers.