Towing With An 08 Escalade?

[mini1]

One of my friend's is looking at purchasing an 08 Escalade and he wants to use the Escalade to tow his travel trailer (Airsteam) 2-3 times per year. The trailer is 27' and I think it weighs around 5000lbs. I am helping him out because he has never owned a GM vehicle before. I can answer most of his questions, except for two.

1.) Was there a trailer/tow factory package on the 08 Escalade? I don't see an option code listed. If there was no option, what makes an Escalade able to tow, just the addition of a hitch and removal of the painted cover? What about the trailer brake/turn signal light hookup? Standard on all or option? I assume that the tow bar is welded into the frame from the factory and covered with the painted plastic cover?

2.) What is the best option to extend the mirrors to see beyond the wide trailer? Something not tacky and something that won't fall off? I assume you could not order power expendable mirrors.

 

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Stevens03]

I've seen many Escalades towing. So I'd assume they do have a tow package. Basically make sure the Escalade has a transmission cooler, hitch and wire up the e-brake and he'll be fine. As far as the mirrors go, he can get the Cipa mirrors. They go on easy and work well.

[MS3DALE]

Escalade's have the trailering package,the hitch and 7-way trailer plug connector is hidden behind the plastic cover.

Wiring to hook up an electric trailer brake controller is under the dash as it is with all GMT900's.

[oldmann]

Should be cool. I think they have a cover over the hitch that pops out. The cups slide on mirrors are great. The clip on ones shake a lot and are no good. Put extra foam tape insuperable the slide one to make them better. On the painted mirrors. Did it on mine BC of the painted caps.

[mini1]

Escalade's have the trailering package,the hitch and 7-way trailer plug connector is hidden behind the plastic cover.

Wiring to hook up an electric trailer brake controller is under the dash as it is with all GMT900's.

So the trailering package is standard on all GMT-900 Escalade's? Nothing special besides the the addition of some mirror extensions is needed?

[MS3DALE]

Yep,should be good to go.

[mini1]

Thanks for the help!

[jerseydrew]

just be advised the front diff in the AWD system HATES towing. my buddy had the escalade and blew 2-3 diffs (all covered under warranty) by towing.

[nickvrebel]

don't forget an electric brake controller