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Bishops
Explorer
Mar 31, 2015

how much weight do you tow with 1/2 ton gm 5.3l

I have been out of the camping world for a couple years. I sold my f350 and 38ft 5ver. I currently have a 08 gmc sierra 1500 5.3 crew 4x4 and looking at a travel trailer. just curious what ya'll are towing with the 1/2 ton 5.3

32 Replies

  • Have a 2000 suburban 5.3 373 rear end . Had Dutchman 32 quad bunk superslide for a long time it was 7000 pounds. That camper wore out so bout an 08 keystone passport ultra light. Love this set up !! camper is about 6000. I tow in 3rd with tow haul on. I also have had my burb programmed with superchips 87 octane mode. I take is easy up mountains with truckers. I could care less about towing super fast up steep grades. My 5.3 works hard and has 200,000 miles on her. Never heats up . I also have a 2000 gmc sierra with 5.3 and 300,000 miles. both run perfect !!
  • I had that truck before I got my current Dodge. A 2004 Chevy, crew cab short body. Beautiful truck but not a good tow vehicle

    The motor, transmission and rear axle was terrible for towing. And it had the optional heavy duty towing package. My 3500 pound double motorcycle trailer was a chore. Up hills it would downshift to 2nd gear and blow its brains out trying to maintain 45 mph. Gas mileage with this trailer was 9 mpg!