Hi,

Newb to both MINI and this forum, but have always enjoyed seeing them on the road.

I'm going to start full-timing in an RV next spring and was curious if anyone has had any experience pulling an F56 behind one yet. I know many, many people pull R50/R53/R56 behind them without issue despite BMW saying it's a no-no. I'm strongly considering buying an F56 for my toad as it's a better alternative to the (boring) Honda Fit and the (less boring) Ford Focus.

Any experience or input on an F56 lash-up to an RV would be welcome.

Thanks.

 

We were advised upon purchase that it was not to used as a toad.
Front wheel drive?
Will you put the front wheels in a cradle?

 

Nope, wasn't planning on it...too much extra stuff and inconvenience for not much benefit. I can buy a new Focus and lash it up without an issue, but I strongly preferred the Mini.

I'm also considering buying a used late model MCS.

Do you own an F56?

 

We have an MCS F56 manual
Try this:

http://prodcontent.s3.amazonaws.com/2014DinghyGuide.pdf

I would also call the Mini dealer near you and get their opinion.
When told by our dealer not to tow/toad/Dinghy our Mini, we had no intention of doing that .
We didn't pursue it. .

 

I'm well aware of that guide. It's how I know a Focus can be towed four-down without impacting the warranty.

I'm willing to take the hit on the warranty to drive an F56 if it's the same 'wink/nod' type deal that I've seen people experience when towing R5x Minis.

If they're telling you up front that you shouldn't toad it then perhaps the going opinion has changed somewhat. In that case, I'll either pick up a used Mk 2 or buy another brand.

Any additional experience on toading an F56 is more than welcome.

 

( I have no documentation) The reason for non Toading status is that the engine needs to be running in order for the moving parts that would be active under tow are lubricated.
It seems a used Mkll might be the prudent direction, unless your inquiry from BMW produces a wink/nod .

 

There must still be new R56s out there too.

 

If you are towing a Manual Trans car I don't see an issue. A auto trans will build up heat that will be a problem but a manual the only I issue I see is the trans slipping into gear while towing. Not very likely to slip into gear on its own IMO