What Gear to Tow On?

[GTR312]

Hey Guys,

 

I have a 2009 GMC Sierra 1500, My truck is 3 speed + Over drive, it's a 4 x 4 truck. My question is what gear should I tow my trailer at, 4 Down, N, 4Up or 2Up?

If I'm not mistaken the manual says N.

[MikeNH]

2Hi unless you have bad road conditions and typically 3rd gear unless the trailer is very light and the road flat.

[chakis24]

what mike said. and for future reference:

 

2up = 2 hi

4up = 4 hi

4 down = 4 low.

auto4wd (if you have it) = the autotrac 4x4/awd system (can be used on pavement)

 

i believe what the manual is referring to is what the transfer case should be in when you are flat towing the truck- that would be neutral. the transfer case being in neutral has nothing to do with the truck towing (and honestly i think if the transfer case was in neutral you wouldnt get any power to the wheels).

[lovelessjl]

+1 on what mike and big blue said. If you're pulling a trailer, 2up (2 wheel drive high range) is preferred, I would stay out of overdrive too. If you get stuck in snow, mud, or ice obviously use 4hi or 4low as needed.

 

If you're towing the truck behind something (commonly seen with rv's) then the transfer case should be in neutral...which will completely disengage the drivetrain, so be careful there as with the t-case in neutral, PARK WILL NOT WORK. Make sure the truck is safely secured against movement before shifting the t-case into neutral

 

 

Sent from my cool Googler thingy using Tapatalk

[nickvrebel]

You should keep the truck in 2wd (2HI) at all times unless you need 4wd.

When towing you press the button on the end of the shifter to activate tow/ haul mode. You should be able to keep it in drive unless the terrain/ load are giving you trouble then you may choose to use 3rd gear - This is how the truck was designed and is how it is recommended from your owner's manual.

[Big Whiskey]

You should keep the truck in 2wd (2HI) at all times unless you need 4wd.

When towing you press the button on the end of the shifter to activate tow/ haul mode. You should be able to keep it in drive unless the terrain/ load are giving you trouble then you may choose to use 3rd gear - This is how the truck was designed and is how it is recommended from your owner's manual.

 

 

Word.