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markschum's avatar
markschum
Explorer
Aug 09, 2013

help - used gmc jimmy, what do I really need

Hello , I recently bought a GMC Jimmy 1997 with factory tow package. The ball mount is rusted into the receiver hitch. The hitch says 2000 lb or 6000 lb with weight adjusting hitch. The vehicle handbook says 5000 lb tow capacity but electric brakes on anything over 1000 lb.

I need to tow a utility trailer a few times a year a distance of 1200 miles round trip. 600 miles empty, return carrying about 2000 lb payload. The trailer I am looking at is a 5 x 10 utility trailer rated at 2990 lb GVW.

The dealers have said whats on the truck is all I need , no trailer brakes or weight distributing hitch needed.

I dont mind the extra cost involved in brakes, brake controller and the trailer registration but I dont want to spend money foolishly.


electric trailer brakes required ?
existing hitch (2000 lb) need to be replaced ?
Any comments are appreciated.
Tow Vehicles

5 Replies

  • markschum's avatar
    markschum
    Explorer
    Aug 09, 2013
    @ grit dog - Full size or S15 jimmy? how do I tell that ?
    @ wildwest450 I am hauling concrete statues/bences / birdbaths 1000 to 2000 lb payload.

    Thanks for the comments.
  • Grit_dog's avatar
    Grit_dog
    Navigator III
    Aug 09, 2013
    Full size or S15 jimmy?
    Can't remember which year they changed the jimmy to a Yukon.
    S15 get trailer brake controller on the truck it's cheap. Full size don't worry about it if the trucks brakes are good and not as rusted up as the hitch!
  • APT's avatar
    APT
    Explorer
    Aug 09, 2013
    My 6.5'x12' utility trailer weighs about 1100 pounds empty and single axle, 3500 pound GVWR, no brakes. I typically load it with 1500-2000 pounds of stuff and tow it about 170 miles each way. I had no problems braking with my F-150 nor my Suburban. I have considered towing it with my Passat, but the braking aspect concerns me the most. A Jimmy? I'm not sure. Test it empty as is first to gauge your comfort level.
  • PapPappy's avatar
    PapPappy
    Explorer
    Aug 09, 2013
    I'd get brakes. You can probably have them installed on the trailer.

    2000 lbs is a pretty good load, and while the TV would probably be fine, you really don't want to take chances when you are out there on the road.
    The trailer probably doesn't need them for the "empty" trip, but double the recommended weight for brakes, you want to take the mfgr's advice.

    The TV should handle the trailer without problems (assuming you get brakes)....Just make sure to load it so that you have the proper weight distribution for the hitch. Too light, and the trailer may get squirrely...to heavy, and you risk some damage to the hitch.

    Good luck:)
  • wildwest450's avatar
    wildwest450
    Explorer
    Aug 09, 2013
    I see no need for brakes an a small utility trailer. What are you loading it with?

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