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Seeking Tow Truck Models with 1800-1900kg Load Capacity - Category B, GVW 3.5t

kuba9449 35220 16
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Can I buy a new tow truck with a GVW up to 3.5 t and a payload of 1800–1900 kg, and which model offers the highest payload?

For a new tow truck in the 3.5 t GVW class, the thread mentions a VW Transporter with about 1,800 kg payload, but the overall conclusion is that 1,800–1,900 kg is generally not realistically available in this category [#19452399] [#19557549] One reply points out that as the vehicle’s own weight goes up, its payload drops, which is why finding such a high payload at 3.5 t GVW is difficult [#19452303] If you need to carry around 2 tons, several participants suggest moving to a Category C vehicle instead [#19574421]
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  • #1 19451905
    kuba9449
    Level 10  
    Posts: 35
    Rate: 5
    Hello
    I am planning to buy a new tow truck with a GVW of up to 3.5t. Is there any model with a load capacity of 1800-1900 kg? Which one has the most?
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  • #2 19452212
    OPservator
    Level 39  
    Posts: 6683
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    Volkswagen t4 2.5 TDI tow truck 102 km Payload 1800 kg

    Added after 49 [seconds]:

    New, used, what amount???
  • #3 19452229
    michal_rybka
    Level 35  
    Posts: 2649
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    I have a Kaczka 2.4D with a load capacity of 1,800 kg :)
    If everything goes well with the purchase of the (unknown) frame, I will sell the Kaczka.

    The advantage is that in the ID card there is a foldable car, a new VIN number was assigned by diagnosticians some time ago, there is a special vehicle, roadside assistance and load capacity of 1800 and a towbar is stuck in the ID card, so the receipts are great, the only thing better would be receipts for SAM. ;)
    technically, everything is functional, it's also nice because it has a low ramp (directly on its frame), there isn't much rust because everything is reinforced with angle brackets, I transported the Sharan and it didn't bother me, except that the cruising speed is a maximum of 80 km/h without tiring the engine, maybe it would be better with box 5. Surprisingly, the lack of assistance is not as bothersome as in the Żuk
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  • #4 19452279
    kuba9449
    Level 10  
    Posts: 35
    Rate: 5
    Unfortunately, as I wrote, I am interested in new tow trucks, so the T4 or the duck is out of the question :)
  • #5 19452303
    sunrise84
    Level 42  
    Posts: 7221
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    kuba9449 wrote:
    Is there any model with a load capacity of 1800-1900 kg? Which one has the most?

    +
    kuba9449 wrote:
    Category B car trailer


    Read about the regulations first because I don't know if you'll find this type of load.
    The problem is that the car itself weighs quite a lot and its load capacity decreases, which is logical with a GVM of 3.5T.
  • #6 19452330
    sosarek

    Level 43  
    Posts: 83875
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    kuba9449 wrote:
    Unfortunately, as I wrote, I am interested in new tow trucks

    So look, the regulations have changed - if you buy one powered by alternative fuel, the permissible weight increases to 4150kg.
    Company Account:
    Z
    Pka, Poznań, 60-850
    Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
  • #7 19452399
    OPservator
    Level 39  
    Posts: 6683
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    Among the new ones, you also have a VW Transporter with a GVW of 3,500 and a load capacity of 1,800, also a diesel.
  • #8 19452456
    kuba9449
    Level 10  
    Posts: 35
    Rate: 5
    sunrise84 wrote:
    kuba9449 wrote:
    Is there any model with a load capacity of 1800-1900 kg? Which one has the most?


    kuba9449 wrote:
    Category B car trailer


    Read about the regulations first because I don't know if you'll find this type of load.
    The problem is that the car itself weighs quite a lot and its load capacity decreases, which is logical with a GVM of 3.5T.

    But what exactly should I find in the regulations?

    sosarek wrote:
    kuba9449 wrote:
    Unfortunately, as I wrote, I am interested in new tow trucks

    So look, the regulations have changed - if you buy one powered by alternative fuel, the permissible weight increases to 4150kg.

    Unfortunately not :(

    OPservator wrote:
    Among the new ones, you also have a VW Transporter with a GVW of 3,500 and a load capacity of 1,800, also a diesel.

    Thanks for the tip :)
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  • #11 19452505
    sosarek

    Level 43  
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    @kuba9449 Look, I didn't know that, generally it was forced by the EU a long time ago and they were supposed to finally implement it, but as always they had to fix everything...
    Company Account:
    Z
    Pka, Poznań, 60-850
    Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
  • #12 19452564
    michal_rybka
    Level 35  
    Posts: 2649
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    the transporter is a bit short and narrow for a trailer... and the rear is on wishbones and springs, not a rigid axle on springs... not very good

    A lot of people make tow trucks on Masters because they are light and strong
  • #13 19557549
    kuba9449
    Level 10  
    Posts: 35
    Rate: 5
    Unfortunately, there are no tow trucks with such a capacity.
  • #14 19574421
    Strumien swiadomosci swia
    Level 43  
    Posts: 27411
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    Why don't you buy something for C if you want to carry 2 tons? This has always surprised me. PJ C is not a problem.
  • #15 19574747
    Gerri
    Mercedes specialist
    Posts: 5662
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    Then it must have a tachograph - and this is not always desirable ;)
  • #16 19574803
    kuba9449
    Level 10  
    Posts: 35
    Rate: 5
    Strumień świadomości świata wrote:
    Why don't you buy something for C if you want to carry 2 tons? This has always surprised me. PJ C is not a problem.

    Driving license, viatoll, tacho, fees....
  • #17 19576349
    Strumien swiadomosci swia
    Level 43  
    Posts: 27411
    Help: 1403
    Rate: 6379
    Gerri wrote:
    and this is not always desirable


    It's like DPF and crocodiles that like to look for magnets. Some reverse logic sometimes prevails on the topic. Viatol and B will catch you if you exceed 3.5t. The fees for a special vehicle are not outrageous.

Topic summary

✨ The discussion revolves around the search for new tow truck models with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of up to 3.5 tons and a load capacity between 1800-1900 kg. Users mention the Volkswagen T4 2.5 TDI and VW Transporter as potential options, both offering a load capacity of 1800 kg. However, concerns are raised regarding the weight of the vehicles themselves, which can limit the effective load capacity. Additionally, regulations regarding permissible weights for vehicles powered by alternative fuels are noted, which could allow for higher capacities. Some users suggest considering larger vehicles or different licensing categories to accommodate heavier loads, while others express skepticism about finding suitable models within the specified parameters.
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FAQ

TL;DR: With a 3.5 t GVW cap, payload is tight; "the car itself weighs quite a lot and its load capacity decreases." New 3.5 t recovery trucks rarely reach 1,900 kg, so verify specs and rules early. [Elektroda, sunrise84, post #19452303]

Why it matters: For Category B buyers of new 3.5 t recovery trucks, this FAQ sets realistic payload expectations and compliance checkpoints.

Quick Facts

What’s the realistic max payload for a new 3.5 t recovery truck on B?

Under 3.5 t GVW, 1,900 kg payload remained elusive in this thread. The original poster later concluded no tow trucks with that capacity were available. Aim for options below that mark, and verify the Certificate of Conformity before buying. [Elektroda, kuba9449, post #19557549]

Which new model gets closest to 1,900 kg under 3.5 t?

A cited example is a VW Transporter with a 3,500 kg GVW and an approx. 1,800 kg payload in a diesel spec. Treat this as a brochure claim and confirm the actual bed build, axle ratings, and options weight. Order the final homologation printout with payload listed. [Elektroda, OPservator, post #19452399]

Are there used platforms with about 1,800 kg payload?

Yes. One user cites a Volkswagen T4 2.5 TDI (102 hp) tow truck with a declared 1,800 kg payload. Check configuration, wheelbase, and body builder weight before relying on that figure. Inspect the registration for body type and capacity entries. [Elektroda, OPservator, post #19452212]

What regulation detail actually limits my payload on Category B?

Category B caps the vehicle’s GVW at 3.5 t. A heavier base vehicle and body reduce the remaining payload kilogram for kilogram. As one member put it, “the car itself weighs quite a lot and its load capacity decreases.” Always read the spec plate and registration. [Elektroda, sunrise84, post #19452303]

Is the proposed 4,150 kg allowance for B on alternative-fuel trucks in force?

No, according to a linked article shared in the thread, those provisions did not enter into force. Do not plan purchases around that increase without current confirmation. Treat any salesperson claims about 4,150 kg on B with caution. [Elektroda, kuba9449, post #19452492]

If I must carry 2,000 kg regularly, should I move to Category C?

Yes, a Category C platform gives you headroom for a true 2,000 kg load. One poster bluntly asked why not buy a C vehicle if you need two tons. More capacity reduces the risk of overloading fines and wear. [Elektroda, Strumien swiadomosci swia, post #19574421]

Will a Category C recovery truck need a tachograph?

Usually yes. A member noted that stepping up means a tachograph is required, “and this is not always desirable.” Factor this into operations and costs. Include driver card management and calibration downtime in your planning. [Elektroda, Gerri, post #19574747]

What about road tolls and fees if I exceed 3.5 t?

Expect toll enforcement when you exceed 3.5 t. The thread notes that systems will catch a Category B driver if the rig runs heavy. It also mentions that special-vehicle fees are not outrageous, but they still add up. Budget accordingly. [Elektroda, Strumien swiadomosci swia, post #19576349]

Is a VW Transporter a good base for a new flatbed?

One builder warned the Transporter can be short and narrow for a flatbed. Its rear uses control arms and coils, not a rigid spring axle. “A lot of people make tow trucks on Masters because they are light and strong.” Check width, axle setup, and overhang. [Elektroda, michal_rybka, post #19452564]

How do I estimate real payload before buying?

Use a quick subtraction approach to avoid surprises.
  1. Note the GVW (3,500 kg on B) from the plate or docs.
  2. Subtract the curb weight plus bed, winch, ramps, and options.
  3. Subtract driver, fuel, tools, and margin to get usable payload. Read the paperwork first; heavier builds cut capacity. [Elektroda, sunrise84, post #19452303]

Are older “Kaczka” builds viable for 1,800 kg payload?

One owner reports a 2.4D “Kaczka” configured as roadside assistance with 1,800 kg payload. The deck sits low, which helps loading. Downsides include a comfortable cruising speed around 80 km/h and lack of power steering. Inspect reinforcement, rust, and gearbox ratios. [Elektroda, michal_rybka, post #19452229]

How do I verify a towbar and special-use status are legal on a build?

Check the registration/ID card entries. Look for “special vehicle, roadside assistance,” the rated load capacity, and the towbar entry. One owner highlights that their towbar is explicitly listed in the ID card. Match VIN, body type, and hook approval before towing. [Elektroda, michal_rybka, post #19452229]
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