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megmp787's avatar
megmp787
Explorer
Apr 07, 2015

Conflicting Towing Information (Chevy Tahoe)

Hi. I am a newbie to the TT world and am getting conflicting info from various "experts" on the towing capabilities of my 2007 Chevy Tahoe LT which has 320-hp, 5.3 liter, V-8 with 3.73 axel ratio and GVWR of 7300, a payload of 1,776, and a GCWR of 13,000.

I am in the military and will be moving my family from Tennessee to Alaska, a 4,060 mile trip, in July and want to ensure the least amount of issues with my Tahoe and TT.

This weekend I was assured by several experienced traveled and a mechanic that a 27' Coachmen Catalina 273BH with a dry weight of 4,688 and GVWR of 7000 would be an easy pull for my Tahoe from Tennessee to Alaska. However, after reading numerous forums, and talking with others, some state that the wheel base on my Tahoe may be too short for the overall 29' length of the 273BH and that depending on how I loaded the TT and my vehicle, I may be close on weight as well. I have calculated my anticipated weight with fluids, people, pets, and cargo and believe I will come in right at 12,000 lbs gross combined weight.

With that said, do you think my vehicle is capable of towing this trailer (which I did make a downpayment on to hold) or do I need to downsize in length and GCWR weight for the trip? I really want this trailer to work, but safe travels is the most important issue.

I greatly appreciate your time and thoughts.

11 Replies

  • First, thank you for your service. Not just trivia, thanks.
    I think you are really pushing a Tahoe. The engine is adequate but I question the rest of the vehicle. It will probably do it, but it will take a toll. You are under GVWR but the big challenge will be the large frontal area. It takes a lot to drag it through the air, then you will have to deal with high altitudes, thin air and long steep grades, both, up and more challenging, down. I towed one about that size with a 5.? Ford Triton F 150 and it did it but it didn't like it. If you are really careful on the downhills, take care of the brakes and use the tranny you can do it. The F250 5.? was a much more relaxed drive. The stiffer suspension and larger brakes made for a more cooperative trailer. One thing that might help is to get a Mountain West Directory. It will help you avoid some of the most difficult pulls. Staying on interstate hwys. also helps. They are limited to mostly a max of 7% grades. Good luck. Keep us posted on your trip. It is a really beautiful drive!