Getting a Newer Suburban/Yukon XL for towing

06_GMC · April 5, 2016

Hey guys I am a very very experienced driver and "tow-er". So I don't need the whole "are you sure you can tow that?" and the "you'll be over this" comments. We currently have a 2003 Yukon XL in my sig. We have a 23FB travel trailer that weighs 4500# empty with a 6K GVW. The Yukon is rated at 7100# Towing capacity and does just fine. It's no speed demon but she does well. We are looking at upgrading to a 900 series suburban/Yukon XL/Denali XL or Escalade ESV. My biggest question is whether to get the 5.3 or get a 6.2. I know that the 6.2 only comes in the Denali and Escalade. The 5.3 would need the K5L HD cooling package & 3.42's to be able to tow the camper. Would I really be disappointed with the performance of the 5.3? I do live in the Rockies in Colorado so I'm not towing in the flat lands. Also how stable is a Denali/Escalade compared to a normal suburban? I'd love a 2500 burb but don't feel like paying out the ass for one. Any experience or advice in these two areas would be much appreciated.

Nathan79 · April 5, 2016

I had a 2012 Silverado with the 5.3 (with HD cooling, 3.42 gear and 6 speed) towing 7500lb GVR trailer. It did it but it was a dog. Temperatures went up to uncomfortable levels (ATF and coolant). I added an HD ATF cooler and that helped on that part. But finally suspension and all other aspects I just never wanted to tackle anything other than a small hill. The wind here in the West damn near blew us off the road.

Been there, done that. Sold the dog and got an HD. Talk about an upgrade.

GMP · April 6, 2016

Go 6.2!!!! Difference is gas mileage is minimal. Put towing power is hugh

06_GMC · April 6, 2016

Thanks for the replies guys! I definitely would love a 2500 but people want a million dollars for them.

00Silverado4x4 · April 6, 2016

For as heavy as the tow vehicle is going to be I'd go with the 6.2 as well if you can find one at a good price.

06_GMC · April 6, 2016

What kind of mileage are people seeing out of the 6.2's on the interstate?

nekkidhillbilly · April 7, 2016

hd truck with a 6.0 gets about 17-18 on highway if babied. id say your looking at similar since weight would be the same. expect 15-16 really though. avg be around 13 highway and city. 12-13 with your trailer hooked to it is the norm also.

06_GMC · April 22, 2016

So this is what I am getting to pull the camper. Bulletproofed 6.0L 154K loaded limited. Super excited

BlackZ71Silverado · April 26, 2016

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

That's unfortunate.

154,000 miles and you're buying it to use as a tow vehicle, should have got something with less miles on a gas engine. Those Ford engines aren't known to be the best but good luck with it. A nice GM V8 would have served you well. Hope it works out for you.