2001 Z71 Towing A SV291

[Bill U]

I have the opportunity to pick up a 01 Z71 for a song. $5000.00. My SV291 has a dry weight of 5000 lbs. With add ons such as AC etc I guess the weight will be in the 5500 lb range. Before I invest in this truck I want to know if anyone else tows with a similar vehicle. In other words is this a good buy for the money and will it tow the trailer on extended trips of 2 to 3 hundred miles once a year. We go camping once a month in the 50 to 100 mile range.

[acadianbob]

Hi Bill. You really need to check out the specifics of the very vehicle you are considering. There are several things that can really affect towing capacity. The biggest thing, I think, is the axle ratio of the vehicle. Preferably it should be in the 3.73 to 4.10 range. Anything lower numerically really puts a crimp on towing capacity. It is also highly desirable to make sure it has a factory towing package option. This typically will include a Class IV receiver that can accept a Weight Distribution hitch. A WD hitch is an absolute necessity IMO for a trailer of this size. The tow package will also include a heavy duty automatic transmission cooler; also a very desirable item. Check for tow package, then check the owners manual for towing capacity using the exact vehicle as equipped.

[acadianbob]

And you will want a 7-pin connector. Usually a part of the towing package too.

[Bill U]

Has the trans cooler and the hd tow option. Fellow I'm buying it from towed his race cars to the tracks. He towed with a WD hitch.

[slpybeartx]

With the 5.3L engine this truck should pull about 7800 with the 3.73 if I remember.

I currently own a 2008 SV291 and pull it with a 2008 Z71 with 5.3L and 3.73.

Very good pull with wife, kids, and trailer loaded. Avg 10-11mpg with wind 8-9mpg into it.

Assuming the truck is in good shape, I would go for it.

[Bama PrimeTime]

Sounds SWEET to me!

[Bill U]

Picked up the truck yesterday and towed the TT for a test run. The truck pulls like a pair of matched mules. Happy camper here.

[acadianbob]

Awesome Bill!! Be safe and have fun. b

[Bama PrimeTime]

Ok Bill, now where are the pictures???

[Bill U]

No pics yet. Heck, I just discovered computers and this thinggy yall call the internet. Digital camera I have, which end points to subject?????
Seriously, we are taking the 291 on its second trip on the 18th of this month. The better half found a spot on a peninsula in Florida in Apalachicola Bay. (Pardon the spelling) Indian Pass Campground they call it. Dogs allowed. The shore is just 50 feet from the campsite. We are taking the pontoon boat to fish in the bay. No swimming, too many sharks. Oyster bar just up the road. Can't wait.
Have yall discovered that new voice activated battery disconnect tool so the battery doesnt drain when you store the TT?

[Bill U]

One other dumb question.....how do I post pictures on this forum?

[Bama PrimeTime]

Voice activated battery disconnect tool... would that be the wife standing over your shoulder??