That's OK. No, APT is correct. It is based on an Chevy's 130" wheelbase. Same as the Suburban and Escalade EXT. It has a truck bed and a truck engine (my father in law has the same 5.3 in his Silverado), but the platform is different and handles different when towing. That is one reason why the ride is SO nice in an Avalanche.
Here are the specs across the board...
The 1500 5.3L w/ 3.73 axle 4x2 max towing is 7200#.
The 1500 5.3L w/ 4.10 axle 4x2 is 8200#.
The 1500 5.3L w/ 3.73 axle 4x4 is 7000#.
The 1500 5.3L w/ 4.10 axle 4x4 is 7900#.
The 2500 8.1L w/ 3.73 axle 4x2 is 10200#.
The 2500 8.1L w/ 4.10 axle 4x2 is 12000#.
The 2500 8.1L w/ 3.73 axle 4x4 is 9900#.
The 2500 8.1L w/ 4.10 axle 4x4 is 11900#.
All 1500's have a tongue capacity of 1000#
All 2500's have a tongue capacity of 1500#
If you look at the option codes in the glove compartments, you will find at least one of the following.
GT4 = you have a 3.73 axle
GT5 = you have a 4.10 axle (pretty rare now)
GU6 = you have a 4.42 axle (part of attempt a better MPG)
G80 = you have a locking differential
This all changed in 2007 I believe, when the towing package was dropped as standard equipment and Chevy started focusing on fuel efficiency (FlexFuel, changed to 6-speed from a 4 speed). The capacity specs are different (lower in every case) unless you get a towing package. LouLou57, are you sure you do not have a 2500? I would not take what the dealer says as gospel. I tried to get the specs for my particular
Some readers over at the Chevy Avalanche Fan Club Of North America recommended I installed an aux tranny cooler and maybe an expanded tranny pan. The general consensus is that the spec'd towing capacities are a little too generous. But they seemed to think this setup would be fine. I think it is really up to the manufacturer and how they present the numbers. I have a friend who has a Land Rover LR3 that is spec'd at 7700# max and he has been pulling a 10000# rig all over the western US for years (foolishly, yes) and he tells me it handles like a champ.
It is a shame that the Avalanche will be discontinued in 2013.
Any other thoughts would be GREATLY appreciated!
