Towing capacity

[Stacey Marie]

Hi, I have a 98 gmc sierra c1500. It has a 5.7 liter engine with towing package. My manual says that based on my gear ratio I can tow 6000lb. I am looking to buy a 7000lb travel trailer. I am looking to tow it once with this vehicle. If I go slow can I technically pull this amount? 

[ChevMech]

I would advise against it. The EMPTY weight of the travel trailer is 7,000 lbs. That's not factoring in water (fresh, gray, and black), and all the gear that will accumulate in the camper, not to mention the people that will probably be traveling with you. In theory, yes, the truck will pull it. The issue is stopping. A half ton does not have the braking capacity or the weight to stop what you're looking to put behind it. You will be better off looking for a lighter trailer or a heavier truck.