Towing capability with a 5.3L v8 Suburban
We are considering trading in our 2009 tahoe for a 2011 suburban in order to be able to tow a lightweight travel trailer, instead of a hybrid trailer as we have now. The maximum towing weight is liste...
Forum Discussion
Our Avalanche has the 5.3L, towing package and I believe the 3.73 rear, and tows our 5200 lb dry weight TT fine. I haven't towed it on any major hills/mountains yet. I would likely have to slow down considerably if going up significant inclines.
I've tried to add as little weight as possible - I shedded a lot of pounds from the last TT I had which was some 800 pounds lighter. When I empited the old TT I only reloaded a fraction of the stuff that accumulated over the years - it was like cleaning out a house when moving! I also have not towed the new TT with the fresh water tank filled yet (extra 300 lbs). 90% of the time it will be only my wife and I in the truck now, because of the kids school/work schedules. If the kids do come, they usually drive separately and meet us there.
One thing to keep in mind is that the aerodynamics of the TT make a big difference. My old TT was a brick that caught a lot of air. The new TT has a rounded sleek front profile that really helps with towing, especially at higher speeds.
Also make sure your braking is up to the task.
I've tried to add as little weight as possible - I shedded a lot of pounds from the last TT I had which was some 800 pounds lighter. When I empited the old TT I only reloaded a fraction of the stuff that accumulated over the years - it was like cleaning out a house when moving! I also have not towed the new TT with the fresh water tank filled yet (extra 300 lbs). 90% of the time it will be only my wife and I in the truck now, because of the kids school/work schedules. If the kids do come, they usually drive separately and meet us there.
One thing to keep in mind is that the aerodynamics of the TT make a big difference. My old TT was a brick that caught a lot of air. The new TT has a rounded sleek front profile that really helps with towing, especially at higher speeds.
Also make sure your braking is up to the task.
