Towing capacity help
We are in the process of getting a travel trailer. We really like the Sportsmen Show Stopper that ways 4,500 dry. My tow vehicle is a 2013 GMC Yukon XL 4x4 with a 5.3 motor. I've done a lot of researc...
Forum Discussion
misterpowertools wrote:
No doubt it's the 3.08 final drive ratio lowering the towing capacity. That by itself won't make towing unsafe...unless you have a breakdown from straining the rest of the drivetrain. You could re-gear both ends and be okay towing that TT which you will be adding about 1000 lbs to when it's loaded to camp. Less if you don't carry water. Regearing may be cheaper than trading in and a Yukon XL should be a fine towing machine for that trailer.
Yes, this and lack of extra cooling is the reason for 5,000 lb. tow rating. If you had 3.42 gears, with added cooling, same vehicle otherwise, the rating jumps to 8,000 lbs.
It would be a strain on the drive train, but not necessarily unsafe to tow as is. As a minimum, I would add better cooling capability, and tow in whatever gear allows the engine to rev freely.
Jerry
