I don't want too, but I have too ...

Nope didn't go with helper springs or bags. Just OEM now she's pretty darn level, there might be a 1/2" drop maybe 3/4" didn't measure. But it's dry now an totally unloaded so I already talked "the boss" into the bags last week, as a just in case, probably will do them anyway. Can't hurt right??

Yup I do have the Allison, not 100% but don't think with the 8.1L (outside a manual) it came any other way. It's been rock solid too don't even feel it shifting buttery smooth.

My nephew has a 8.1 and a similar trailer as I have. I have a Duramax. One time when we traveled together and diesel was 30 cents more per gallon than gasoline his fuel cost was about the same as mine.

So I would not be too concerned with fuel usage.

You should have the Allison transmission the best ever put behind a gasser.

Glad to hear it went pretty well for you! Yes, that 8.1 is a beast compared to the 7.4, or 6.0.

Did you add any suspension help, or get by with OEM?

Take care of the brake issue, and likely a few other little things, and then enjoy that FW! :)

Jerry

KoJackz wrote:
Thanks for all the replies fellas appreciate it. Brought the FW home today. Truck handled it great, I won't lie all the forums and people's opinions had me second guessing a lot !! So advice for anyone going forward trust in the numbers.

Hooking up i was relieved, truck sat nice and level. I was even more impressed when I put her in D let off the gas and w/o any throttle input at all she started pulling it. On the road they together felt very solid, zero sway, no bouncing, nothing but a little tugging here and there. I do however have a call into the dealership, driver side trailer brake squeals like a stuck pig, at first it was just a tad bit as I got on with the trip it got worse only under breaking. I also do need to get a better feel for the trailer brakes in general. I think they are a bit too sensitive almost like the trailer is actually braking the truck like a parachute never felt like it was pushing at all almost like it was dragging. Oh and with the truck in tow/haul mode I gotta say I was real impressed with the downshift engine breaking felt in total control of this rig the whole time. I do need practice with backing into the driveway but all in all it took fifteen mins to get her in "just the right spot" an really I was being a little OCD about it.

Anyway just wanted to let you all know I appreciated your input and that we got her home safely !! And I hope if there are any other out there (which it looks like there's a ton) that the tread helps you out !

Having your engine break is bad, however having it brake is good! Just saying! Chris

Fisher Bill wrote:
Sounds like he has the big block 454 (8.2L) so might not be a power issue.

Racine96 wrote:
I had a 2500 Silverado 2014 HD 6.0 gasser. It struggled on the hills. I don't think you would be safe. Can it pull it? Yes, but not very safe. MHO

It's a big block 496ci 8.1L. I guess they built them a bit stouter in 03 then Rancine cause she was WAY less stressful and WAY more stable than I thought it was going to be !! As miles went by the truck actually gave me more and more confidence.

Thanks for all the replies fellas appreciate it. Brought the FW home today. Truck handled it great, I won't lie all the forums and people's opinions had me second guessing a lot !! So advice for anyone going forward trust in the numbers.

Hooking up i was relieved, truck sat nice and level. I was even more impressed when I put her in D let off the brake and w/o any throttle input at all she started pulling it. On the road they together felt very solid, zero sway, no bouncing, nothing but a little tugging here and there. I do however have a call into the dealership, driver side trailer brake squeals like a stuck pig, at first it was just a tad bit as I got on with the trip it got worse only under breaking. I also do need to get a better feel for the trailer brakes in general. I think they are a bit too sensitive almost like the trailer is actually braking the truck like a parachute never felt like it was pushing at all almost like it was dragging. Oh and with the truck in tow/haul mode I gotta say I was real impressed with the downshift engine breaking felt in total control of this rig the whole time. I do need practice with backing into the driveway but all in all it took fifteen mins to get her in "just the right spot" an really I was being a little OCD about it.

Anyway just wanted to let you all know I appreciated your input and that we got her home safely !! And I hope if there are any other out there (which it looks like there's a ton) that the tread helps you out !

Sounds like he has the big block 454 (8.2L) so might not be a power issue.

Racine96 wrote:
I had a 2500 Silverado 2014 HD 6.0 gasser. It struggled on the hills. I don't think you would be safe. Can it pull it? Yes, but not very safe. MHO

KoJackz wrote:

I'm currently looking at spring helpers or air bag assist options. Anyone with experience have any suggestions which direction? Brands? They both seem to be easy installs right in the garage. So any and all opinions are appreciated.

I installed Timbrens on my truck. They work great.

I wouldn't add any aftermarket suspension help till you load the truck and trailer and make a short run. Then is the time to add if needed. Too many new folks think they need bags/etc and install them before the trailer. Then find their not needed.

OP says: ***I'm well below factory 6084 let alone with the tire upgrade bumps that. ***
RAWR is the lessor of the trucks rear axle/wheel/tire and rear spring pack ratings.
3400 lb rated tires just gives you more tire reserve capacity but doesn't help the other components..
You won't have any issues carrying the load or pulling GM tow rating with that truck. Looks like a good match

I don't have any 1st hand experience yet, but I like the Timbren system looks really simple and effective.

Timbren