I pull a TT factory weight of 6,200lbs, loaded must be 1,500lbs more with a 04 Burbon with the 5.3 liter and a 3.73 axel. Have been doing this for years,towing some pretty good steep grades like in Branson. Truck now has 175,000 miles on it. Same trans, motor, and axel. It handles perfect no sway from trucks, wind, or anything else. At times wish it had the 6 liter or 6.2 but when I look at new pushing $70,000 plus $5,000 in sales tax and doc fees it feels good to own this one. I will say turning off the air on steep grades is not only helpful but necessary at times to prevent over heating. I don't know how much longer this suburban will go but so far there is nothing to indicate I should trade it in and clean out my kids inheritance. Going big is always better pulling a RV and you won't have to turn off the air on steep grades but I'm a happy camper with the 5.3liter and could always move to a cooler climate and not use the air. One final thought gas mileage is poor compared to new TV I get 8-9 depending on the wind and using premium does help this a little but I don't notice any increase in power over using regular and premium has been running as high as seventy cents more.
