New to the group...

[kjorg]

I am new to this group just wanted to say Hi... and to thank all of you for your information shared at this site.

I am in the process of replacing the UIM on a 98 Bonneville ... my little brides car.

I am not young (60) except at heart and generally I favor boats and RV projects over cars but this is the second time for this same failure and it pissed me off enough to find out what was up with this POS plastic manifold... thanks to you guys it was an easy process getting up to speed.

While I am not a mechanic I do have a shop/garage I will admit it took me a few days to prep the shop for this project and I wanted to do the tear down before I ordered parts so it slowed me down from getting this thing done quickly. I am waiting for the UIM kit from Dorman which should arrive today or tommorrow.

I have enjoyed the process of getting into this car however I am anxious to get back to a project of restoring 1 vintage Airstream trailer.

Which brings me to my first question....

Do any of you guys do any towing with your Bonnevilles? I actually think the silver 98 Bonneville would make a hot TV for a 74 27' Airstream project that is coming in at about 4500lbs... I would be interested to hear your thoughts...I am a bit slow to respond (old and busy) please be patient.

[Gumball]

welcome, I've heard of guys towing close to 3000lbs with them but thats usually short distances, 4500 lb airstream sounds a bit much to me.

others that have towed will chime in.

Again, welcome to Pontiac Bonneville Club hope you get a lot of info here.

[00Beast]

4500 would be over the rating of any hitch for the Bonneville, and would do a number on the transmission. For that much weight I'd suggest a half ton truck/Tahoe/Suburban.

[kjorg]

4500 would be over the rating of any hitch for the Bonneville, and would do a number on the transmission. For that much weight I'd suggest a half ton truck/Tahoe/Suburban.

For sure it is an over rated tow load... no doubt... but that being said these Airstream guys pull these trailers with all kinds of TV that a reasonable thinking person would never do...

The last one I saw was a new mustang... now I understand that some modifications to the trans.cooler, brakes and a very good hitch system (Reese) are being used.

I agree that it probably can't be done and for sure should not be done... so any thoughts and how to do it anyway.

[J Wikoff]

I'd upgrade the front brake rotors to something like the Powerslot slotted rotors and some good ceramic pads for a little extra stopping power. A new larger tranny cooler would be a must, like you've said.

[Jrs3800]

I agree... a huge Tranny cooler, and a good Brake upgrade to be able to put the clamps on slowing down all that weight... I think the largest Hitch you can get for the bonneville is 3500 Lb tho..

[95SLE]

kjorg:
Welcome from one 60yo to another. LOL