Mountain Towing
Looking for advice on towing in the mountains. I live in western VA and just bought a brand new 1971 Safari Airstream. I currently own a 06 Silverado with a 5.3l engine which is rated at 7,700 lbs. ...
Forum Discussion
I've towed a 6500-lb travel trailer through the Rockies with a 5.3 half ton Suburban, as high as 9,666 feet (Powder River Pass in WY).
Your axle ratio is going to make a big difference. Mine had the 4.10 axles. 3.73 should be acceptable, 3.42 will likely be problematic, even for a relatively light trailer.
I used tow/haul, and manually shifted gears. Be patient, both going up and down hills. Let the engine do the work downhill - not your brakes. Plan ahead and anticipate as you approach steep grades and sharp turns.
Regards to the controller - I've had great results with a Tekonsha Prodigy.
Your axle ratio is going to make a big difference. Mine had the 4.10 axles. 3.73 should be acceptable, 3.42 will likely be problematic, even for a relatively light trailer.
I used tow/haul, and manually shifted gears. Be patient, both going up and down hills. Let the engine do the work downhill - not your brakes. Plan ahead and anticipate as you approach steep grades and sharp turns.
Regards to the controller - I've had great results with a Tekonsha Prodigy.
