Mountain Towing

OldAFVet · May 7, 2018

I currently run a 2014 Silverado 1500 LT Z71 with the 5.3 and 6 speed. I tow a travel trailer (8-9K Lbs.) loaded when traveling. No problem traveling up and down the east coast flatlands and little hills (Appalachians, Catskills and Adirondacks). My setup seems to really struggle in the mountains (Eisenhower Tunnel, Continental Divide etc.). It has trouble finding gears, engine screams, feels like it is lugging. Does anyone have experience with the 5.3 8 speed an 6.2 8 speed. I m looking to replace my truck and wonder if just upgrading to the 8 speed would help, if the 6.2 would solve the problem (good enough to justify the $3K)? Or would I be best advised to upgrade the towing and recovery coverage on my insurance policy and stick with what I have now until it dies.

I need to mention that living in the flatlands of Florida most dealers don't stock 4x4s with upgraded power plants so finding one to look at is tough.

diyer2 · May 7, 2018

When pulling a grade like Eisenhower tunnel use manual and pick a gear so that the RPMs aren't high or the motor isn't screaming.

I would guess with your set up pulling Eisenhower in 3rd or 4th gear you would be doing 30- 40 mph.

If you want to pull Eisenhower and do the speed limit you need to upgrade.

With that trailer I would go 6.2 8 speed.

If you want the best, diesel, Allison.

I live in Colorado. 2012, 5.3, 6 speed.

Donstar · May 7, 2018

I'm not familiar with the mountains you describe but have had considerable experience pulling heavy loads with a lot less power through mountainous terrain. As long as you're within the rated load limits of your truck you will be fine, imo. Use tow/haul mode, keep to the right and don't be impatient on steep climbs.

diyer2 · May 7, 2018

10 minutes ago, Donstar said:

I'm not familiar with the mountains you describe but have had considerable experience pulling heavy loads with a lot less power through mountainous terrain. As long as you're within the rated load limits of your truck you will be fine, imo. Use tow/haul mode, keep to the right and don't be impatient on steep climbs.

I agree, take your time and you will be fine.

Wife's uncle had some Tim Allen in him.

He says anybody can go fast down hill.

Uphill takes H.P.

OldAFVet · May 9, 2018

Thanks for the insights. I agree that going slow in a lower gear would be possible, but for me the traffic conditions on that part of 70 are scarier than the grade. Crawling up the mountains, behind the18 wheelers with their flashers on would not b a problem except for the traffic. Traveling in what seems to be normal traffic for that stretch of road, with everybody in a hurry and jockeying for position with unannounced lane changes is not fun when your truck is operating at the limits of its performance and you have nothing left to cope with an emergency. It sounds like to drive at a safe and reasonable speed for that type of road I have to go with the uncle that likes horsepower. Thanks for the advice.