Forum Discussion

nederlandse's avatar
nederlandse
Explorer
Apr 26, 2015

Towing in the Rocky Mountains

We are looking for a new trailer, as our current one had a "little" accident. We will be towing with our Chevy Tahoe which has a GVWR of 6900 lbs.
I am very cautious about the weight we want to pull; we always stayed way under, but for our last trailer we would like some more space and comfort (walkaround bed etc.). How much weight could our new trailer be, so we are safe?
We live in Colorado and will virtually always need to cross the Continental Divide. I have heard that I should subtract about 25% of the GVWR of the car. Do you agree?
  • krobbe's avatar
    krobbe
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    You can find your Tahoe's specs HERE.
    It looks like the only axle ratio available was 3.73.
    The GVRW is 6799#.
    The curb weight is 5049#.
    The payload is listed as 1750#.
    Subtract all passengers/cargo/hitch from the payload and that is what is left for a trailer tongue weight. Divide the trailer tongue weight by .13 and the result is the heaviest trailer you can put on the hitch.
    But, comfortable towing may be somewhat less than your max payload calculation.
  • nederlandse's avatar
    nederlandse
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    Thank you! The only code that is on that sticker and that is on the list as well is GT4, Axle Rear 3.73.

    Does this help?
  • BadDogPSD's avatar
    BadDogPSD
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    I tow in the mountains, at altitude 80%+ of the time. In the past I once pushed the trailer weight close to max and while it was okay, it was not 'comfortable'. Going up hills at 40 mph (while most traffic was going 65+), going slow downhill to ensure I would have enough braking when needed... just not fun.
    Since then I've tried to stay within 75-80% of max and I like it much better.
  • Lynnmor's avatar
    Lynnmor
    Explorer
    Apr 26, 2015
    There should be a sticker with many codes on it, possibly in the glove box. Find your code here:

    Codes
  • nederlandse's avatar
    nederlandse
    Explorer
    Apr 26, 2015
    Dan,
    It is a 2001, 4x4, V8. I don't know where to find info on the engine.
    All I see on the sticker is: GAWR FRT 3600 lbs, GAWR RR 4000 lbs. Does this give the rear end ratio?
    I don't know what a payload capacity is, or how to find out, sorry.
  • OutdoorPhotogra's avatar
    OutdoorPhotogra
    Explorer
    Apr 26, 2015
    I've towed over the Rockies at max capacity. I wouldn't do it again if you paid me. I don't know if the 25% slack is a good judge but I would definitely want slack.
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Apr 26, 2015
    Keep the trailer GVWR withing the tow rating.
    Be sure to derate the rating properly for gearing, engine, wheel options etc.

    You may need to accept going a bit slower and running 4,000 rpm when climbing.
  • bikendan's avatar
    bikendan
    Explorer
    Apr 26, 2015
    You need to provide more info than just the Tahoe's GVWR.

    year, engine, 4x2 or 4x4, rear end ratio, payload capacity, factory tow package or not.

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,110 PostsLatest Activity: Feb 15, 2025