Towing a SMART
There is a VERY large debate on this subject going on over at the FunkSmart web forum.
I am currently trying to get to the bottom of the issue because I want to hook my own SMART up using an 'A' frame. I have seen quite a few people towing like this and have asked the dealer that I bought my RV from.The sales director there has been towing a SMART for four years with no problems and says that several of her customers also do this without mishap.
Merc, however, say that this is definitely not a good idea, since towing can cause a rise in oil pressure which can blow the seals.
Someone on the FunkySmart site contacted the people who manufacture the SMART gearbox and they say that they know of no reason why this should happen since the SMART does not have a true automatic gearbox, it is actually described as a 'software controlled manual', and does not use a pump, but is self-lubricating.
TowTal, the people in Stoke-on-Trent who fit 'A' frames to SMARTs, also say there is no problem - but then they would, wouldn't they?
So the argument rages. I just wish I could get some definitive advice before I go out and spend money on having an 'A' frame fitted.