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Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Trailer and Towing Questions

195 messages,  Last post on Nov 29, 2009 at 6:12 AM

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What is this discussion about? Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Classic, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Chevrolet Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, GMC Sierra 2500, GMC Sierra 3500, Towing, Truck

#21 of 195 Re: Towing a Trailer [nibby50] by jreagan Feb 20, 2007 (5:34 am)
Replying to: nibby50 (Feb 19, 2007 5:06 pm) FYI,    I currently own (for a couple more weeks anyway, til my new one comes in) a 2000 GMC Sierra Ext cab Z71 4x4 with the 5.3 liter engine and 3.73 rear end. It is rated at 8500 lbs towing, however, I do beleive that these so-called max tow ratings are greatly inflated beyond what is reasonable for a 1/2 ton chassis if you want them to last.    I tow a boat that weighs around 3500 lbs with gear, gas, etc. The truck pulls it fine, but it is working. Personally, I would not recommend towing much more than 5000 lbs, assuming you have the 5.3 with the 3.73 gears. How much does your trailer weigh? If it is more than 5000 lbs, I would consider getting a 3/4 ton.   Also, take care of that tranny, do a complete flush and filter change if it hasn't been done yet. Regardless of that BS 100,000 mile tranny fluid life they claim. These trannys are not the best for towing alot of weight, so meticulous maintenance is required if you want them to last. Replies to this message: nibby50 (Feb 20, 2007 4:45 pm) davethecarnut (Mar 29, 2007 8:47 pm)
#22 of 195 Re: Towing a Trailer [obyone] by nibby50 Feb 20, 2007 (4:42 pm)
Replying to: obyone (Feb 20, 2007 12:10 am) My husband probably knows more than I do (!) but I do know it is 4.8 and not 5.3. It is a 4 wheel drive. Does that help?
#23 of 195 Re: Towing a Trailer [jreagan] by nibby50 Feb 20, 2007 (4:45 pm)
Replying to: jreagan (Feb 20, 2007 5:34 am) Thanks for the information. The trailer we are looking at towing weighs 2800 lbs. I think that is called its dry weight so it would weigh more than that when loaded. Replies to this message: davethecarnut (Mar 29, 2007 8:47 pm)
#24 of 195 Re: Towing a Trailer [nibby50] by davethecarnut Mar 29, 2007 (8:47 pm)
Replying to: nibby50 (Feb 20, 2007 4:45 pm) You should be fine. Just remember, if your going to camp spots with full hookups, make sure ALL your holding tanks are empty. No need to tow dead weight
#25 of 195 towing by fishstew Mar 30, 2007 (12:32 am)
Recently got an 07 Silverado Classic 4X4 extcab worktruck, 4.8 engine and a 3.42 rear with the "Smooth Ride" suspension. It wasn't set up for towing but the dealer agreed to throw in a tow package. That's the term. Now what does that mean? I was told the truck would be able to handle safely it's rated load which seems to be 6700 pounds. But they are talking about just putting in a harness and hitch. Is that all? Replies to this message: paisan (Mar 30, 2007 3:33 am)
#26 of 195 Re: towing [fishstew] by paisan Mar 30, 2007 (3:33 am)
Replying to: fishstew (Mar 30, 2007 12:32 am) Dealer scammed you I think. A towing package is more than just a hitch I would think. But one of the GM folks on here will have to jump in to give some more ideas.   On my Armada the towing package included: Power Steering Cooler HD ATF Cooler HD Radiator Tranny Temp Gauge Hitch w/Wiring Harness Air Leveling rear suspension and I believe a different axle ratio   -mike
#27 of 195 towing by fishstew Mar 30, 2007 (12:21 am)
Recently got an 07 (really an 06?) Silverado Classic worktruck, 4.8 engine and a 3.42 rear with the "Smooth Ride" suspension. It wasn't set up for towing but the dealer agreed to throw in a tow package. That's the term. Now what does that mean? I was told the truck would be able to handle safely it's rated load which seems to be 6700 pounds. But they are talking about just putting in a harness and hitch. Is that all.
#28 of 195 Towing capacity by cptchetco Mar 30, 2007 (8:26 am)
Make sure your hitch set-up is correct for your truck. I regularly tow an 8,000+ boat and contents behind my 2005 Ford F-150 with no problems. It has a class 4 hitch, and the towing package, which as noted definitely includes more than just the plug in. Mine has different radiator and springs for sure. Its a 5 speed, 4WD. On freeways and long drives, its easy to forget your towing, its so effortless. Fuel mileage drops from 21 empty to 12-13 with the boat.
#29 of 195 Do I need a 3/4 ton?? by akwrx May 10, 2007 (6:03 pm)
I have a question that I am hoping you all can weigh (pun intended) in on.   I am in the market for a used pickup to tow my new boat. I am looking at towing around 6300 lbs on 50 to 100 mile trips 20 times per year. My budget for the truck is around 18K. My question is, should I spend the dollars on a 3/4 ton or a newer 1/2 ton??   I know that most 1/2 tons are rated to tow that much, but I don't trust those ratings. Also, suggestions for a specific truck brand/year to look for would be appreciated. Thanks! Replies to this message: davethecarnut (May 10, 2007 9:50 pm)
#30 of 195 Re: Do I need a 3/4 ton?? [akwrx] by davethecarnut May 10, 2007 (9:50 pm)
Replying to: akwrx (May 10, 2007 6:03 pm) If the truck is gonna be used more than 20 times a year, you can stick with the 1/2 ton for the better ride when empty or not towing. Any of the american 1/2 tons and the Titan will pull that 6300lbs. easily. Note: make sure the truck came with the factory tow pkg. (see above posts). Because you will get the heavier duty radiator and other parts to make towing easier.

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