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CO-traveler's avatar
CO-traveler
Explorer
Sep 06, 2017

How much can this truck REALLY tow?

Hi, I got my garage organized so my wife and I can fit both cars in. My dreams of owning a great big, 3/4 ton 4x4 crew cab were dashed when I realized I was squeezing just to get out of my current midsize pickup. So, I have my sights set on a new Colorado/Canyon crew cab with the 2.8L duramax diesel to pull a smallish bunkhouse TT.

now to my question: The published literature states the truck can pull 7600#. Payload carrying capacity is around 1500 lbs. give or take depending on trim level. So, realistically to be safe, what weight of TT can I safely tow without being overloaded. I found a trailer that would fit our needs (wife and toddler son) and the dry weight is 4500 and a GVWR of 6500. It is the Dutchmen Apex 245BHS. I believe it is a 7.5' wide trailer with tandem axles. I doubt we would fill it up to the maximum of 6500 for travel so thinking more like 5500 lbs. wet and loaded.

What do you guys think of this tow combo? We live in the Rocky Mountains so the diesel with exhaust brake is appealing to be able to slow the rig down on those steep I-70 grades. I would be installing a good WD hitch with sway control of course.

53 Replies

  • When you say not big enough do you mean a "tail wagging the dog" situation? One more thing, this truck can be had in a short or long bed configuration. How much difference in towing does the long bed make for stability?
  • Even a 1/2 ton would struggle pulling it around the mountains, where I live a 1/2 ton would be as small as I would go.

    where you live a 3/4 ton gas or diesel would work well with that TT.
  • Sorry to be the first to say, no way..... It is just not a big enough truck to pull anything over a very small TT, 4,000lb would be a little much for myself.


    sure it mite get it moving and even up to speed, but you will be risking the lives of your family and others on the road.