Max Travel Trailer Weight for 5.3

[Rolling Thunder]

With a 3.08 you're more like 2.92.... I'll calc it late r

 

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Cal, I think he's OEM 3.42, we have the same configuration LTZ 4x4 and I'm 3.42 OEM default. I'll let you calculate it closer for him but everyone is correct, those 34" wont help his towing at all.

[calgator73]

3.08=2.85 3.42=3.17

 

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[Imcrazy]

Like others said, assuming 3.42 rear end, you'll be fine until you get on the freeway/interstate/highway... I've had 9k behind my 1500 pulling some heavy equipment but, it was 35-45mph back roads with a very quality brake controller, that much weight starts to push a light 1/2 ton truck is the real problem IMO, the brakes and motor are up for the job and a good WD hitch will help with the squat.... Ditch the 34's too IMO, if that's gearing you down to a 3.15ish ratio it's gonna be tough to pull that kind weight...

[bcbz71]

2016 Silverado LT-Z71 Double Cab 5.3/6 speed/4x4. Do not have the NHT max towing package. I have a leveling kit and 34" load range E tires. I currently own a 18', 3500 pound travel trailer and it tows just fine. Was looking at upgrading to a 27'+ travel trailer. Seems like most of them have dry weights of 7,000-8,000 pounds with hitch weights in the 600-700 pound range.

 

I usually travel about 100 miles one way to the lake. No real big mountain climbing or anything like that. I will occasionally travel further. Can I realistically rely on my 1500 5.3 to tow it

 

My '14 Sierra is rated at 9600 and I tow 5000# regularly without a WDH. I do have air bags in the bag and that helps a lot with ass sag and preventing the front end from feeling light and I run a brake controller. I can hold 65 steady with CC and tow mode locking out OD running 31" tires and averaging about 10mpg. I have some reserve power for passing but I wouldn't say I have a ton of power left. I'm in Florida, so it's relatively flat.

 

By running a 34" tire and pulling a heavier trailer, I say you are at the limits of the truck, but for 100 miles, you will be OK. Have plenty of room before trying to pass, keep your distance and dial in your brake controller and you'll limit the white knuckle moments. If you were towing cross country with that weight, I would say you were playing with fire.

[gupster88]

Thanks again for all the input, never thought about the gear reduction via larger tires. I just got them so I will have to eventually go to smaller tires. After some thought and talking it over with the lady, I think we are going to go for a little smaller of a camper instead of getting a 2500 + bigger camper. I found some decent sized 27'-29' campers coming in at 4,900-6,000 pounds just depending on what I get. That is more than acceptable for this truck with the bigger tires I would think.