I've towed over 5000 pounds (trailer full of books) a short distance (couple of miles) and wouldn't want to do it on a regular basis. I've got Tone's hitch and it worked well without issues. The motor didn't have a problem with it but performance was ackward/sluggish to say the least. The main problem was in braking - coming to a stop took a concerted effort with plenty of room - the first time I came to a stop it just kept going - too much mass going in a straight line. Afterwards I compensated - the VX had no problem going up steep hills with that type of load but ideally you'd want a brake assist, tranny coolor and perhaps a Class 4 hitch, or at least have one welded to the frame (mine isn't) to reduce the pucker factor.

-- John