Adding hitch to my 08 Silverado LT

Texas Outlaw · January 20, 2012

Howdy y'all, first post here and I'm hoping to learn a lot from all of you experts in the coming months

I have a 2008 Chevy Silverado Ext Cab LT truck that I want to put a hitch on for towing. It did not come with one from the factory, but from what I have heard it should not be that difficult to install one. First off, is this possible? If so, is it a good idea? My truck is not 4x4 or Z71, just the standard 2WD. If the answer is yes to my first two questions, what brand of hitch do y'all recommend? How hard would it be to install one myself?

Forgive my inexperience, I am new to all this (only got my license a few months ago!) but I am really hoping these forums will help me learn.

Thanks everyone.

Morgan1986 · January 20, 2012

You have to weld it to the frame so I would just go a towing/hich store that does this all day every day and ask them questions.

timdan94 · January 21, 2012

http://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hitch/Chevrolet/Silverado/2008/14301.html?vehicleid=2008303919

here is one for your truck all you do is bolt it on. I would add a transmission oil cooler if you add the hitch.

Morgan1986 · January 21, 2012

That is kinda cool . what is it rated for ?

timdan94 · January 21, 2012

That is kinda cool . what is it rated for ?

10,000 trailer 1,000 lb tounge weight

12,000 trailer 1,200 lb tounge weight with weight distribution.

Diesail · January 21, 2012

You have to weld it to the frame so I would just go a towing/hich store that does this all day every day and ask them questions.

Even the factory hitch is bolt on! As to brand, Curt makes a great hitch. Install should only be about 30 minutes with general hand tools.

Texas Outlaw · January 21, 2012

Thanks guys, that's exactly what I wanted to hear

Morgan1986 · January 21, 2012

You have to weld it to the frame so I would just go a towing/hich store that does this all day every day and ask them questions.

Even the factory hitch is bolt on! As to brand, Curt makes a great hitch. Install should only be about 30 minutes with general hand tools.

I am really going to have to look at my hitch again .... feeling kinda stupid .

oldschool327 · January 21, 2012

This member is selling his factory hitch for 50 bucks.

http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=140978

Texas Outlaw · January 21, 2012

This member is selling his factory hitch for 50 bucks.

http://www.gm-trucks...howtopic=140978

Thanks for the heads up. I am going to see if I can snag that one.

c4cruiser · January 24, 2012

Reese, Curt, and Draw-Tite are all good brands and they are vehicle specific and will bolt on just like a factory hitch. Hitches are rated by "Class" And there are 5 separate classes based on the capacity of the hitch.

The truck should have a wire harness connection back by the bumper that wil allow for connecting a wire harness for trailer lights. Lightweight trailers use a simple 4-pin connector while larger trailers (especially with electric brakes) will need a 7-pin connector. There are connection kits that allow for a plug-and-play connection. Check with area RV stores or trailer sales places. They can help you with all of the electrical stuff.

You didn't say what you are going to tow. What will the gross trailer weight be? Single axle or dual axle? Most every state requires trailer brakes when the trailer has dual axles or weighs over something like 2000lbs. If you will need electric trailer brakes, you will need a trailer brake controller. If you are going to tow any appreciable weight, you will need a trans cooler. These are not real expensive and are fairly easy to install.

jandersinc · March 24, 2012

Do not weld it on. Bolt it on like the factory does. Whomever said to weld it is incorrect. Not trying to be rude, but that is not the correct way to install a hitch on your truck.

maverick585 · May 27, 2012

I'm in the same boat (see pun below). I have 2010 Silverado LS 4.8L 3.42 ratio Z85 trim.

<snip> manual

</snip>

My understanding from reading the manual is that I can tow 5500 lbs. Is there any worth to getting a class four hitch instead of a class three?

I am currently looking at:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/110623234324?ru=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.ca%3A80%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_from%3DR40%26_trksid%3Dp5197.m570.l1313%26_nkw%3D110623234324%26_sacat%3DSee-All-Categories%26_fvi%3D1&_rdc=1

How will the transmission oil cooler affect my truck in the winter? I live in Canada and it get's cold here. Also, because the trailer is "small" would I need the both the transmission oil cooler and break assist?

I'm looking to tow a 21 foot boat (ah the pun) lol, ~2300lbs plus 500 lbs for the trailer. I will be traveling over mainly flat ground, with a few long rolling hills or 200 to 400 feet accent.

As always with much trust and respect for this site.

Cheers,

Drew

PS If you are having a BBQ or going in the pool this weekend and enjoy your freedom, thank a soldier, we might not have the chance again. Have a great Memorial Day to all my brothers and sisters in Arms!