Forum Discussion

genekiwi's avatar
genekiwi
Explorer
Apr 17, 2013

Silverado 1500 Towing

Anyone know the towing capacity for a 2013 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab 5.3 engine with 3.42 rear end with trailer package?

Can't find anything on line. Dealer says 9600 pounds but not sure about that.

Considering buying one to tow about a 7500 pound trailer.

I know it will not be the fastest but that is okay.

Thanks

78 Replies

  • Pretty sure your owner's manual will tell you but you can also look it up through Trailer Life Mag as they put out a towing guide every year. It is tricky to make sure you find the right listing for your truck but it's there. My 2007 Chevy 4-w drive with 5.3 motor and 3.73 rearend is rated for about 7,700 I think and I comfortably tow a small 5th wheel with dry wt. of 5,300 lbs.
  • genekiwi wrote:
    Anyone know the towing capacity for a 2013 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab 5.3 engine with 3.42 rear end with trailer package?

    The answer to your question can be found in the online 2013 Silverado Owners Manual in the charts beginning on page 9-79 (347/542).

    The value also depends on bed length and 2WD or 4WD.

    Ron
  • 7500 pounds dry if too much for most half tons, that truck included. Add 1000-1500 pounds for the typical RVing family.

    If the RV has a 7500 pounds GVWR, then it might be good. I recommend under 6000 pounds dry for the most capable half tons. Usually some other rating is exceeded if towing an RV at the tow rating. Receiver, payload, rear axle are likely to be exceeded for a 9500-ish pound RV. Most 9500 pound boats would be fine. :)

    3.42 axle is fine with the 6-spd trans. It provides better overall gearing than an old 4-spd with 4.56 gears. GM does not offer a 3.73 axle with the 5.3L. IF you really want a new GM half ton, I highly recommend the 6.2L/NHT package. A lot more power, a little more payload. Anything wrong with your current 3/4 ton?
  • There is nothing about the combination that is going to make for a happy towing experience. Payload capacity of the truck is also going to be an issue, but you seem to be sold on the truck.
  • genekiwi wrote:
    Anyone know the towing capacity for a 2013 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab 5.3 engine with 3.42 rear end with trailer package?

    Can't find anything on line. Dealer says 9600 pounds but not sure about that.

    Considering buying one to tow about a 7500 pound trailer.

    I know it will not be the fastest but that is okay.

    Thanks
    No.
    get 3.73 gears, and you can tow about 6000 lbs.
  • I can't think of anything about that engine rear end combination that you are going to like towing that size trailer. That truck is a grocery getter.
  • For anything but short flat tows, I think you will find the 1500 to be inadequate for towing a 7,500 pound travel trailer.
  • genekiwi wrote:
    Anyone know the towing capacity for a 2013 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab 5.3 engine with 3.42 rear end with trailer package?

    Can't find anything on line. Dealer says 9600 pounds but not sure about that.

    Considering buying one to tow about a 7500 pound trailer.

    I know it will not be the fastest but that is okay.

    Thanks


    I tow that much with my 6.0 with 4:10 rear. I wouldn't want to do it with a 5.3 especially if your going any kind of distance.

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,179 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 16, 2026