2004 Silverado Towing Capacity
Hey Gang - I need a sanity check to go over my calculations. I have a a 2004 1500 Extended Cab Shortbed Silverado 4 x 4 with a 5.3 liter engine, HD towing capacity, 3.73 rear end fitted with E Rated ...
Forum Discussion
You stated GVWR = 6400# and weighed tow vehicle = 5760#, this leaves payload capacity of 640#. Tongue weight for good towing results averages 12-15 percent of TT weight, which amounts to nearly 800# at 12 percent, tongue weight is is over 950# if closer to 15 percent. As posted above, GCVWR doesn't mean all that much since this towing combination will exceed payload capacity well before reaching GCVWR.
Another factor is the length, sway will be excessive when towing in windy conditions and at highway speeds, sure a high quality WD/SC hitch will help some, but it can't change the physics of your towing combo. Short trips on flat roads will be doable but long excursions will no doubt be problematic, any major elevation changes or poor weather conditions will only worsen an already uncomfortable towing scenario.
Another factor is the length, sway will be excessive when towing in windy conditions and at highway speeds, sure a high quality WD/SC hitch will help some, but it can't change the physics of your towing combo. Short trips on flat roads will be doable but long excursions will no doubt be problematic, any major elevation changes or poor weather conditions will only worsen an already uncomfortable towing scenario.
