I think the question you need to ask is "what is the tongue weight?" I had
an 1984 Toyota Tercel 4wd wagon (5 spd) and towed one of those pop-up
campers all over the east coast of the US. A whopping engine of about 90
hp. The car did have a "tow package" installed.

I would think that with a tow package (transmission cooler, larger radiator,
etc.) the Element would have no problems towing such a trailer. I am far
from an expert so I would suggest asking your local hitch shop for
confirmation.

-keith




"Artfulcodger" <mcbat@rogers.com> wrote in message
news:3%o%c.256322$UTP.181561@twister01.bloor.is.ne t.cable.rogers.com...
> John Rosoff wrote:
> > I want to tow a tent trailer with a Honda Element. My tent trailer has
> > a gross weight of 1950 pounds. The towing capacity for the vehicle is
> > 1500 pounds. I am 75 years old and "baby" my trucks, and the
> > transmission has a 30,000 mile or three year warranty. Should I chance
> > it and buy the Honda Element or am I being dumb (as usual)?
> > Thanks for a constructive reply,
> > John
> > johnrosoff@msn.co
>
> I would say if you are going to "chance" it you best install a
transmission
> cooler.
>
> I am no towing expert so I can't say if an excess gross weight of 450 lbs
> over towing capacity is normal or not.
>
> Without expert advice I would be more inclined to source a vehicle with a
> larger capacity.
>
> The Element has a small load capacity of somewehere around 500 to 700 lbs
so
> you better travel light.
>
> Best of Luck
> Mike
>
>