Looking at Replacement Tow Vehicle

[whitmw]

Looking at replacing my 2007 I6 Trailblazer, rated to tow 5400 with a new chevy v6 Sierra 1500 WT, long bed. My travel trailer (Canyon Cat 17qbc) is 3700 dry with propane, spare tire and battery. I think the final towing capacity on the Sierra is 7400. I will need to have a hitch and electric brakes installed (I think) as this does not have a tow package. The main reason to upgrade is I would to take the camper on longer trips out side the state. I feel pretty confortable pulling the TT around the state (2 hours) but the trailblazer has 82000 miles on it an I would like to go further (beach). As this is really a base truck, what should I have them add or add myself and what are the thoughts on the towing between the two vehicles. Right now I really cant afford a bigger truck, thats what this is a base model. Its not even the color I want but I am willing to overlook that to get something to pull my camper with a little more breathing room. A side note is the reason for the long bed is to maybe put my bike and ti will only fit the long bed. The bike weighs in around 800 lbs. Thanks for thoughts and comments. Ive gotten some great ideals here.

[Davidceder]

Beside tow capacity you need to be concerned with Hitch weight. What is the hitch weight of your trailer versus the max hitch weight of the TV?

[ryand]

From not knowing the numbers exactly, its tough to say but at 5400# its safe to say your tounge weight will be within reason for a TV that can tow 7k. However, do you homework with the Payload. Also, a suggestion is that if you are going to buy new, get the factory tow package. It will be cheaper than doing it all yourself and its ready to go from the time you drive off the lot. One word of warning....buy the most truck you can afford!

[whitmw]

Thanks Davidceder and ryand. The hitch weight of the trailer is just under 400 lbs. With this truck that's what I am doing. Buying the most I can afford right now.

[ryand]

That will defiantly be a good combo with lots of safety margin...with the bike it will likely be close. Cheers and happy camping!

[Happy Vibe]

Can I ask were you got the tow rating from? According to the gm towing chart the reg cab long box 2wd 4.3 v6 with 3.23 gears is 4700 lbs and with 3.73 is 5200 lbs.

[Crusadernoob]

I would keep looking for something with a v8 just my .02 worth. Take your time and buy something that will work for you long term.

[Bamaman]

You should be looking for something with the 5.3 engine for towing. The smaller engines are just not enough engine.

And you can forget carrying a 800 lb. motorcycle in the rear of any 1/2 ton truck PLUS towing a travel trailer. That would require a 1 ton dually.

[f5moab]

For a 2014 I believe it is 6500 lbs. But I would also say, hold out for a V8.

[Happy Vibe]

I was looking at an older spec should be, 2wd 3.23 6300 lbs, 4wd 3.42 7400lbs

[pappcam]

The MPG's gained from the V6 is so minimal it makes it pointless to not go with a V8. I assume that the V6 is a somewhat popular option for fleet 1/2 tons but it doesn't make much sense for a tow vehicle, IMO of course.

[Rrickim63]

Agree with v8. There are plenty if 5.3 L out there. You won't be disappointed.

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