Chevrolet Colorado 2015, Equinox 2015, Silverado 2015, Express 2015, Silverado 2500HD 2015 Trailering Guide
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2015 TRAILERING GUIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
02 SELECTING A VEHICLE/MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
03 VEHICLES AND HITCHES
04 TRAILERING BASICS
05 IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRAILERING
06 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU START TRAILERING
08 TRAILERING TECHNOLOGIES
09 SILVERADO CONVENTIONAL TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
10 SILVERADO HD CONVENTIONAL TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
11 SILVERADO HD FIFTH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TRAILER
WEIGHT RATINGS
12 COLORADO, TAHOE, SUBURBAN, TRAVERSE AND EQUINOX
TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
13 EXPRESS PASSENGER VAN AND EXPRESS CARGO VAN TRAILER
WEIGHT RATINGS
14 DINGHY TOWING
02 SELECTING A VEHICLE/MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS (LBS.)
1
The chart below gives you an idea of the maximum amount of weight you can confidently and safely trailer with different Chevrolet models when your vehicle is properly equipped.
When determining the total weight of trailer and cargo, include the weight of any additional passengers and optional equipment (driver weight and base equipment are already included).
See pages 09–15 for maximum trailer weight ratings by specific model.
0
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
9,000
10,000
11,000
12,000
13,000
14,000
15,000
16,000
17,000
18,000
19,000
20,000
21,000
22,000
23,000
24,000
Equinox
Traverse
Colorado
Suburban
Tahoe
Express 2500 Passenger Van
Express 3500 Passenger Van
Express 2500/3500 Cargo Van
Silverado 1500
Silverado 2500HD
Silverado 3500HD
3,500
5,200
7,000
8,300
8,600
9,800
10,000
10,000
12,000
17,900
23,200
1 Befo re you buy a vehi cle or use it fo r trailerin g, careful ly review the Trai lering sec tion of the Own er’s Manual . The weight o f passenge rs, cargo an d options or ac cessorie s may reduce the a mount you can t ow.
03 VEHICLES AND HITCHES
Hitch Ball on Step-Bumper Hitch Ball on Draw Bar Weight-Distributing Hitch with Sway CoverGooseneck HitchFifth-Wheel Hitch
SELECTING THE RIGHT HITCH Choosing the right hitch and
making the proper electrical connections affects how your
vehicle handles, corners and brakes, and allows you to alert
other drivers of your intentions. Before selecting a hitch or
trailering package, you should be familiar with the weight
ratings specific to your Chevrolet vehicle, which are detailed on
pages 09–13.
SELECTING TRAILERING EQUIPMENT Most Chevrolet vehicles
offer a variety of standard and available equipment for
enhanced trailering performance. Aside from the equipment
described below, features such as heavy-duty cooling and
extendable trailering mirrors may be available. See your
Chevrolet dealer for more information on the model you’re
interested in.
WEIGHT-CARRYING HITCH This consists of a hitch ball mounted
to a step-bumper or draw bar. Hitch balls are available in a
range of sizes. Make sure that the diameter of your hitch ball
matches your trailer coupler. Also check that the ball meets or
exceeds the gross trailer weight rating.
WEIGHT-DISTRIBUTING HITCH This hitch type distributes the
trailer tongue load by using spring bars to shift some of the
hitch weight forward onto the tow vehicle’s front axle and
rearward to the trailer’s axles.
FIFTH-WHEEL HITCH AND GOOSENECK HITCH These are
designed for heavy trailering. Located in the bed of the truck,
these hitches position the trailer’s kingpin weight over, or
1 Not re quired on Si lverado 250 0HD or 3500H D.
slightly in front of, the truck’s rear axle. Fifth-wheel and
gooseneck hitches are most frequently used with travel
trailers, horse trailers and other large trailers.
HITCHES It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.
• If you’ll be towing a trailer that requires a weight- distributing
hitch, be sure to use a frame-mounted, weight-distributing
1
hitch
and sway control of the proper size
• If you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle
to install a trailer hitch, be sure to seal the holes if you
ever remove the hitch. If they’re not sealed, dirt, water
and deadly carbon monoxide from the exhaust can get
into your vehicle
FIFTH-WHEEL TRAILERING Some Silverado models can be
equipped with a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer hitch.
• Follow the manufacturer’s directions for installation, but note
that the hitch must be attached to the truck frame. Do not use
the pickup bed for additional support. For proper kingpin
tongue load distribution and control of the trailer, the hitch
must be mounted so the kingpin load is placed (over or slightly)
ahead of the rear axle centerline
• Fifth-wheel trailer kingpin loads are higher than conventional
trailer tongue loads, so pay careful attention to the truck’s
payload capacity and rear axle weight ratings
• Your Chevrolet dealer can help you calculate the maximum
allowable payload and GVWR required for your fifth-wheel
trailering application. The weight of any additional equipment
and all passengers other than the driver must be subtracted
from the payload weight to determine the maximum kingpin
load available
WIRING HARNESS This allows you to connect the electrical
components of your trailer, such as turn signals and brake
lights, to the trailering vehicle. Select Silverado models and all
Suburban and Tahoe models feature a seven-pin wiring harness
to streamline hookup of trailer lighting and brakes, and a
bussed electrical center makes it easier to connect the
integrated trailer brake controller.
TRAILER BRAKES These are required above a 2,000-lb. trailer
weight on Silverado, Tahoe and Suburban, and above a 1,000-lb.
trailer weight on all other models. The most common trailer
braking systems are surge brakes (found primarily on boat
trailers) and electric brakes (often used on travel trailers, horse
trailers and car haulers). Surge brakes are a self-contained
hydraulic brake system on the trailer, activated during
deceleration as the trailer coupler pushes on the hitch ball. An
electric trailer brake system uses a brake control unit mounted
inside the trailering vehicle; it operates by sensing the vehicle
brakes and then applying the trailer brakes.
SERIES In general, a higher series number in a model indicates
a greater load-carrying capacity. In addition, a vehicle with a
higher series number typically has a stronger frame, stiffer
suspension and higher-capacity brakes, increasing the
vehicle’s ability to trailer heavy loads.
04 TRAILERING BASICS
Towing a trailer involves all major vehicle systems of your
Chevrolet vehicle. Easy and safe trailering requires a properly
equipped vehicle, additional trailering equipment and an
appropriate trailer. It also requires loading both the vehicle and
trailer properly, using safe driving techniques, meeting regional
legal requirements, and following break-in and maintenance
schedules. The vehicle owner is responsible for obtaining the
proper equipment (hitch ball, hitch type of the proper size and
capacity) required to safely tow both the trailer and the load
that will be towed. For more information, consult your Owner’s
Manual or speak to a trailering expert at your Chevrolet dealer.
These charts will assist in determining how to best equip your
Chevrolet vehicle for trailering. To help you understand the
charts, consider these trailering factors:
RGAWR AND GVWR Addition of trailer hitch weight cannot
cause vehicle weights to exceed Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating
(RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). These ratings
can be found on the certification label located on the driver door
or doorframe.
GCWR The Gross Combination Weight Rating is the total
allowable weight of the completely loaded vehicle and trailer.
TRAILER WEIGHT RATING This rating is determined by
subtracting the tow vehicle’s weight (curb weight) from the
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). Base vehicle (curb)
weight plus driver is used, so additional passengers, equipment
and cargo weight reduce this rating.
NOTE The safety steps described here are by no means the only
precautions to be taken when trailering. See the Owner’s
Manual for your Chevrolet vehicle for additional guidelines and
trailering tips.
TRAILERING CAUTION If you don’t use the correct equipment
and drive properly, you can lose control of your vehicle when
you pull a trailer. If the trailer is too heavy, your vehicle brakes
may be less effective. You and your passengers could be
seriously injured. Pull a trailer only after you have read the
information in this guide and followed the steps on the
following pages.
TRAILER CLASSIFICATION TYPICAL EXAMPLES TYPICAL GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT EXAMPLES TYPICAL HITCH T YPE
Light-Duty (I) Foldin g camping tra iler, snowmob iles and pers onal water craft tra ilers (trai ler and cargo c ombined) U p to 2,000 lb s. gross t railer weigh t Weight-carry ing hitch
Medium-Duty (II) Single -axle tr ailers up to 18 f t., open u tility tr ailers and sm all speedbo ats 2,00 1–3,50 0 lbs. gros s trailer wei ght Weight-carry ing hitch
Heavy-Dut y (III) Dual- o r single-a xle trailer s, larger bo ats and encl osed utili ty trailer s 3,5 01–5,0 00 lbs. gro ss trailer we ight Weight-carrying hit ch
Extra Heavy -Duty (IV) Two-ho rse, trav el and fif th-whee l recreati onal trailer s 5,001–10,000 lbs. gross trailer weight Weight-distribut ing hitch
Maxi mum Heavy -Duty ( V) Larg est horse , travel and f ifth- wheel recr eational or c ommercial t railers 10,001 lbs .-and-above gross trailer weight Weight-distribut ing hitch,
1
2
or weight-distribut ing hitch
2
or fif th-whe el hitch
2
fifth-wheel hitch or gooseneck hitch
1 Repr esents mini mum recomme nded hitche s. Please ref er to your trail er’s Owner’s Manual or ask your Chevrolet dealer. 2 Not required on Silvera do 2500HD or 35 00HD.
05 IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRAILERING
The information below is intended to give you some
details about the trailer ratings on your vehicle and a
way to ensure that the vehicle you use can handle the
load you want to pull.
TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS AND GROSS COMBINATION
WEIGHT RATINGS
testing of acceleration, handling, braking, and thermal and
structural performance to determine the Gross Combination
Weight Rating (GCWR) and the trailer weight rating for your
vehicle. The GCWR is the total allowable weight of the
completely loaded vehicle and trailer including any
passengers, cargo, equipment and conversions. You should
not exceed the GCWR of your vehicle when you tow a trailer.
Chevrolet also calculates and publishes a trailer weight rating
for each model or series of Chevrolet vehicles for comparison
purposes. The trailer weight rating is not specific to an
individual vehicle and is most useful for comparing product
lines to one another to help you select a product that will meet
your needs. When you buy a vehicle, you should ensure that
the total load (including passengers, cargo and equipment)
you intend to pull with it will be less than the trailer weight
rating of the vehicle.
Because the trailer weight rating is calculated for a line of
vehicles, rather than an individual load situation, some
standardized assumptions are made when calculating the
trailer weight rating. First, the base curb weight of that type
of vehicle is used (the weight of a standard equipped vehicle
without any options). Second, it is assumed that there is only
one person in the vehicle (the driver) who weighs 150 lbs. Third,
it is assumed there is a certain tongue weight for the load (a
tongue weight is the weight of only the tongue of the loaded
Chevrolet engineers perform extensive
trailer). For conventional trailering, a tongue weight that is 10%
of the loaded trailer weight is used. For fifth-wheel/gooseneck
trailering, a tongue weight that is 16.7% of the loaded trailer
weight is used.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR LOAD WITHIN THE CAPABILITIES OF
YOUR VEHICLE
appropriate for your vehicle, you must first obtain the weight
of your specific vehicle, with all the optional equipment you
ordered. You can take your vehicle to a weigh station to get
this figure, or you can see your dealer who can help you
calculate this figure based on the weight of the options you
ordered. You can then subtract the weight of your vehicle
from the GCWR. The difference between the two is the
capacity you have available for your cargo, passengers, trailer,
load and any other equipment you might use to set up your
trailer. Put another way, your GCWR should always be greater
than or equal to the weight of your vehicle, passengers, cargo,
trailer (with equipment) and load.
It is also important that your vehicle and your trailering
combination do not exceed the tongue weight, Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR) or Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating
(RGAWR) limitations for your vehicle. The only way to be sure to
not exceed any of these ratings is to weigh the tow vehicle and
trailer combination, fully loaded for the trip, getting individual
weights for each of these items. This can be done
at a weigh station with a multi-platform scale.
The tongue weight for your trailer is the downward force
of the coupler of the trailer on the vehicle hitch. You can
calculate the tongue weight by placing the tongue of the trailer
on an appropriate scale. For conventional trailering,
the tongue weight should be 10% to 15% of the loaded trailer
weight. For fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailering, the tongue weight
should be 15% to 25% of the loaded trailer weight.
To be sure that your trailering combination is
The GVWR is the maximum amount the vehicle itself should
weigh, including the as-equipped weight of the vehicle plus the
cargo, passengers and trailer tongue weight. Put another way,
the GVWR should always be greater than or equal to the weight
of your vehicle, passengers, cargo and tongue weight.
Finally, the RGAWR is the maximum allowable weight the rear
axle can carry. You can weigh your fully loaded vehicle and
trailer at a multi-platform weigh station to determine the
weight on the rear axle of the vehicle and ensure that you do not
exceed the RGAWR. You can find both the GV WR and the RGAWR
on the Certification/Tire label, which is found on the rear edge
of the driver door.
06 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU START TRAILERING
BEFORE YOU TRAILER
SAFETY CHAINS Always attach safety chains between your
vehicle and your trailer and cross them under the tongue of
the trailer so that the tongue will be less likely to drop if the
trailer should separate from the hitch. Leave enough slack
in the chains so you can corner without the chains impeding
the movement of the trailer. Do not allow safety chains to
drag on the ground.
LOADING YOUR TRAILER Load your trailer to attain a 10%–15%
tongue weight. A good rule of thumb is to distribute 60% of the
load over the front half of the trailer and evenly from side to
side. Loads sitting either too far forward or too far back in the
trailer can create unstable trailering conditions —such as trailer
sway — at highway speeds and during heavy braking. Once the
trailer has been loaded and the weight is distributed properly,
all cargo should be secured to prevent the load from shifting.
SAFETY CHECKLIST Before starting out on a trip, double-
check the hitch and platform, the hitch nuts and bolts, mirror
adjustments, safety chains, and vehicle and trailer lights.
Make sure that a sway-control device is installed, if required,
and that the device is working properly (see charts on pages
09–14). Check tire pressure on both the tow vehicle and the
trailer. If your trailer has electric brakes, test them by
manually engaging the brake controller while the vehicle is
moving slowly. Check to see that the breakaway switch, if
available, is connected and functioning properly. Finally,
make certain that all loads are secure.
ON THE ROAD
ACCELERATING/BRAKING Avoid overworking your engine when
trailering by applying gradual pressure on the accelerator. Allow
your vehicle to safely reach a comfortable driving speed. Give
yourself extra time and room when merging onto highways.
Braking when pulling a trailer requires extra distance. Allow
ample room to come to a safe stop. A good measure for
determining a safe following distance is to allow one vehicle and
trailer length between you and the vehicle ahead of you for
every 10 mph of speed. When braking, use firm, steady pressure
on the brake pedal.
CONTROLLING TRAILER SWAY Sway refers to instability of the
trailer relative to the tow vehicle, and often results from
improper weight distribution, excessive speed or overloading.
Other factors that can cause sway are crosswinds, poor vehicle
maintenance and road conditions. Trying to steer out of sway
will likely make it worse. Speed is a major contributor to trailer
sway, so you need to slow the vehicle — braking, however, could
lead to a jackknife or other loss of control.
TO CONTROL SWAY
• Hold the steering wheel as steady as possible
• Release the accelerator but do not touch the brake pedal
• Activate electric trailer brakes (if equipped) by hand, until the
sway condition stops
• Use the vehicle brakes to come to a complete stop
You should then pull your vehicle to the side of the road and
attempt to determine the cause of the instability. Check the
cargo load for shifting and improper weight distribution.
Check tire pressure on the tow vehicle and trailer and the
condition of the suspension and shocks. If the sway was
caused by strong winds, wait for conditions to improve before
continuing your trip.
Finally, some trailers can be equipped with anti-sway devices.
Contact the manufacturer of your trailer for availability.
CORNERING The turning radius of a trailer is typically much
smaller than that of your vehicle; therefore, a trailer may hit soft
shoulders, curbs, trees or other objects when making tight
turns. Taking turns sharply can also cause the trailer to strike
against and damage the tow vehicle. When approaching a sharp
corner, brake sooner than normal to reduce vehicle speed
before entering the turn. Drive the vehicle slightly past the
normal turning point then firmly turn the steering wheel. By
cornering at a wider angle, both the vehicle and trailer should
safely clear the inside of the turn.
PASSING When passing, allow additional time and distance to
safely pass the other vehicle. Signal your intention to pass well
in advance and, when reentering the lane after passing, make
certain your trailer is clear of the vehicle you have passed.
Never pass on hills or around curves.
BACKING UP To back up a trailer, place one hand at the six
o’clock position on the steering wheel. To move the trailer to the
left, move your hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right,
move your hand to the right. Back up slowly and move the
steering wheel in small increments to help maintain control.
To assist in backing up, it is helpful to have someone outside
the vehicle to guide you. Make certain you can see your spotter
at all times.
DRIVING ON GRADES Before going down a steep grade, reduce
your speed and shift the transmission into a lower gear. This
provides “engine braking” and reduces the need to brake for
long periods. Chevrolet crossover, SUV and pickup models
equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, as well as
pickups equipped with the available 8-speed automatic have a
grade braking feature in the transmission which can do this for
you. See your dealer or Owner’s Manual for additional
information. When driving up a steep incline, shift to a lower
gear for more torque to maintain speed and avoid lugging.
Lugging occurs when the vehicle’s engine stutters because it
needs to be in a lower gear. Crest the hill no faster than the
speed at which you want to descend and in the gear you
expect will require little braking. Pay attention to your
temperature gauges for any signs of overheating.
07 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU START TRAILERING (CONTINUED)
OVERHE ATING Prolonged driving with overheated fluids can
cause damage to your vehicle. If temperature gauges register
abnormally high, if there is a marked decrease in power or if
you hear unusual engine noises, immediately take the
following steps:
• Pull your vehicle to the side of the road. Once stopped, shift
into Park (automatic transmissions) or Neutral (manual
transmissions) and apply the parking brakes. Leave the
engine running
• Turn off air conditioning and other accessories to reduce
load on the engine. Roll down the windows and turn the heater
on to maximum and the fan to its highest setting. The heater
core provides a second cooling surface that can help reduce
engine temperatures
• If you suspect that the overheating is the result of climbing a
long, steep grade, run the engine at fast idle (around 1500 rpm)
until the temperature gauge registers a normal reading
• With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, the parking brake engaged,
and being mindful of traffic, exit your vehicle and look for
steam or leaking coolant underneath the engine.
If you see either of these, shut off the engine and allow the
engine to cool. To avoid being burned, do not attempt to
remove the radiator cap until the engine has cooled
PARKING ON GRADES Parking on steep grades with a trailer
is not recommended; if you must, follow this procedure:
• Apply the brakes and shift into Neutral
• Have someone place trailer wheel blocks on the
downgrade side
• Release the brakes until the blocks absorb the load
• Apply the parking brake and shift into Park
LEAVING YOUR PARKING SPOT ON GRADES
• Hold the brake pedal down and start the engine
• Shift into gear and release the parking brake
• Release brake and drive uphill slightly until free
from the blocks
• Apply brakes and have someone retrieve the blocks
obstacles located behind the vehicle when traveling in
reverse at low speeds.
08 TRAILERING TECHNOLOGIES
TOW/HAUL MODE Standard Tow/Haul mode on Express,
Silverado, Silverado HD, Suburban and Tahoe as well as
available Tow/Haul mode on Colorado
the shift schedule in the automatic transmission so it isn’t
“hunting” for the correct gear while towing or trailering.
AUTO GRADE BRAKING Standard on Silverado HD, this feature
works with the cruise control to maintain vehicle speed on
long, steep grades.
CRUISE GRADE BRAKING Included with the standard 6-speed
automatic transmission on Silverado, the cruise grade braking
Silverado 3500HD Dually Crew Cab
Long Box LTZ 4x4 shown in
Brownstone Metallic.
feature automatically downshifts to help slow the truck and
preserve your brake pads on long, steep descents.
EXHAUST BRAKE SYSTEM The diesel brake system on
Silverado HD works with the available Allison® transmission
TRAILERING PACKAGE An optional Heavy-Duty Trailering
Equipment Package is available for a wide variety of Chevrolet
The available integrated trailer brake controller will also assist
with this feature and apply the trailer brakes.
models (and is standard on some Silverado models). The Z82
Package includes a trailer hitch platform and may include
other trailering equipment.
STABILITRAK ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL StabiliTrak,
standard on single rear wheel models, improves vehicle
stability, particularly during emergency maneuvers. The
TRAILER SWAY CONTROL Working in conjunction with the
StabiliTrak® Electronic Stability Control System and integrated
trailer brake controller (if equipped), the Trailer Sway Control
feature on Silverado (single rear wheel models only), Suburban
and Tahoe senses trailer sway and automatically applies the
StabiliTrak control module compares your steering input
with the vehicle’s actual response and then, if necessary,
makes small, individual brake and engine torque applications
to enhance control and help you keep on track. StabiliTrak
automatically intervenes when it senses loss of lateral traction.
vehicle and trailer brakes and reduces engine power, if
necessary, to help you get back on track.
INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER This is optional
on Silverado, Suburban and Tahoe. Completely integrated
HILL START ASSIST On inclines greater than a 5% grade,
Hill Start Assist on Silverado (single rear wheel models only),
Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse and Equinox automatically engages
within the electrical system, antilock braking system and
StabiliTrak (on SRW models), it allows your trailer’s brakes
to operate simultaneously with the vehicle’s brakes.
to hold the vehicle stationary for about a second, allowing the
driver time to press the accelerator before the vehicle can roll
backward. It can be extremely helpful when you’re stopped on
a steep grade with a vehicle two feet from your rear bumper.
1 With ava ilable 3.6L V6 engine. 2 With availa ble Tow Package. 3 Re quires Regu lar Cab mode l with availab le Duramax 6. 6L Turbo -Diesel V8 en gine and fif th-wheel h itch. Before you buy a veh icle or use it fo r trailerin g, carefull y review the Trail ering section of the Own er’s
Manua l. The weight o f passengers, carg o and options o r accessori es may reduce the amount yo u can tow.
REAR VISION CAMERA This available feature is designed
to allow the driver to use the navigation radio screen (if
equipped) or the rearview mirror to see certain stationary
and the Tow/Haul mode and auto grade braking features.
After adjusting for the load and grade, a variable vane
geometry turbo creates back pressure to slow the vehicle
and help reduce brake use. That means reduced brake fade,
prolonged brake life and more confidence when you’re pulling
23,200 lbs.,
3
especially on steep grades, increasing the
vehicle’s ability to trailer heavy loads.
AUTOMATIC LOCKING REAR DIFFERENTIAL This GM-exclusive
feature sends maximum drive power to the wheel with grip
whenever rear-wheel slippage happens. Available on Colorado,
Express, Silverado, Silverado HD, Tahoe and Suburban models.
EXTENDABLE TRAILERING MIRRORS These vertical manual-
folding and extendable mirrors have 50 square inches of
flat mirror surface and 20 square inches of convex mirror
surface to help you see what’s happening around you. They
are available as a factory option on Silverado, Tahoe and
Suburban or as a dealer-installed Chevy Accessory.
1
and Traverse2 adjusts
09 SILVERADO CONVENTIONAL TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
These charts specify the trailer weight rating for your vehicle equipped with a conventional hitch. The maximum rating for a weight-carrying hitch is listed in the General Trailering Notes below.
Do not exceed the trailer weight rating.
1
For more information, ask your Chevrolet dealer.
SILVERADO 1500 CONVENTIONAL TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
STANDARD BOX
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
Ec oTec3 4 .3 L V6
Ec oTec3 5 .3 L V8
EcoTec3 5. 3L V8 with
Max Trailering Package
EcoTec3 6.2L V8 3.23 15,000 — — — — 9,500 9,200 9,400 9,300 9,200 9,100
Ec oTec3 6.2L V8 wit h
Max Trailering Package
3.42 12,000 — — 7,600 7,400 — 7,2 00 — — 7,10 0 7,000
3.23 11,000 6,100 5,900 — — 5,600 — 5,600 5,500 — —
3.42 15,000 — 9,800 — 9,500 9,500 9,500 9,400 9,400 9, 200 9,100
3.42 14,000 9,000 — 8,700 — — — — — — —
3.08 12,000 7,000 6,800 6,700 6,500 6,500 6,200 6,400 6,400 6,200 6 ,100
3.73 16,700 — — — — 11,200 1 1,000 11,10 0 11, 000 10,900 10,800
3.42 17,500 — — — — 12,000 11,900 12,000 11,900 11,800 11,700
GENERAL TRAILERING NOTES Where available, the Heavy-
Duty Trailering Equipment Package (Z82) provides a trailer
hitch platform and 7-pin and 4-pin sealed connectors at the
rear bumper.
2
2WD
TRAILER TONGUE WEIGHT NOTES Trailer tongue weight
should be 10% to 15% of total loaded trailer weight up to
1,200 lbs. The addition of trailer tongue weight must not
cause vehicle to exceed Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating
(RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
1
REGULAR CAB 4-DOOR DOUBLE CAB CREW CAB
LONG BOX
2WD
STANDARD BOX
4x4
LONG BOX
4x4
STANDARD BOX
2WD
STANDARD BOX
4x4
SHORT BOX
2WD
STANDARD BOX
2WD
SHORT BOX
4x4
STANDARD BOX
4x4
1 Before you bu y a vehicle or use it for tra ilering, ca refully revi ew the Traileri ng section of th e Owner’s Man ual. The weight of pass engers, ca rgo and optio ns or accesso ries may reduc e the amount you c an tow. 2 Gross Combination Weight Rating.
10 SILVERADO HD CONVENTIONAL TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
These charts specify the trailer weight rating for your vehicle equipped with a conventional hitch. (For fifth-wheel or gooseneck ratings, see page 11.) The maximum rating for a weight-carrying
hitch is listed in the General Trailering Notes below. Do not exceed the trailer weight rating.
1
For more information, ask your Chevrolet dealer.
SILVERADO 2500HD AND 3500HD CONVENTIONAL TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
1
REGULAR CAB
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR 22500HD LONG BOX 2WD 3500HD LONG BOX 2WD 3500HD LONG BOX 2WD DUALLY 2500HD LONG BOX 4x4 3500HD LONG BOX 4x4 3500HD LONG BOX 4x4 DUALLY
Vort ec 6.0L V8 4.10 20,500 13,000 13,000 14,200 13,000 13,000 13,900
Vort ec 6.0L V8 3.73
�
6.6L
Duramax
Tur bo- Dies el V 8
3
16,000 9,500 10,100 9,700 9,300 9,800 9,400
3.73 24,500 13,000 — — 13,000 13,000 —
3.73 30,500 — — — — — 16,000
4-DOOR DOUBLE CAB
2500HD STANDARD
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
Vort ec 6.0L V8 4.10 20,500 13,000 13,000 13,000 13,800 13,000 13,000 13,000 13,500
Vort ec 6.0L V8 3.73
Duramax 6.6L
Tur bo- Dies el V 8
3
3.73 24,500 13,000 13,000 13,000 — 13,000 13,000 13,000 —
3.73 30,500 — — — 16,500 — — — 18,000
2
BOX 2WD
16,000 10,000 9 ,900 9,7 00 9,300 9,7 00 9,600 9, 400 9,000
2500HD LONG
BOX 2WD
3500HD LONG
BOX 2WD
3500HD LONG BOX
2WD DU ALLY
2500HD STANDARD
BOX 4x4
2500HD LONG
BOX 4x4
3500HD LONG
BOX 4x4
3500HD LONG BOX
CREW CAB
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
2
2500HD
STANDARD BOX
2WD
Vort ec 6.0L V8 4 .10 20,500 13,000 13,000 13,000 13,000 13,700 13,000 13,000 13,000 13,000 13,300
Vort ec 6.0L V8 3.73
Duramax 6.6L
Tur bo- Dies el V 8
3
16,000 9,800 9,700 9,600 9,500 9,200 9,500 9,300 9,400 9, 200 8,800
3.73 24,500 13,000 13,000 13,000 13,000 — 13,000 14,500 13,000 15,000 —
3.73 30,500 — — — — 16,500 — — — — 19,600
2500HD
LONG BOX
2WD
3500HD
STANDARD BOX
2WD
3500HD
LONG BOX
2WD
3500HD
LONG BOX
2WD DUALLY
2500HD
STANDARD BOX
4x4
2500HD
LONG BOX
4x4
3500HD
STANDARD BOX
4x4
3500HD
LONG BOX
4x4
4x4 DUAL LY
3500HD
LONG BOX
4x4 DUALLY
GENERAL TRAILERING NOTES A 7-wire trailering harness is
standard on Silverado HD models. Where available, the
Heavy-Duty Trailering Equipment Package (Z82) provides a
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MODEL NOTE All automatic
transmission models are equipped with an engine oil cooler
(KC4) and an oil-to-air transmission oil cooler (KNP).
trailer hitch platform and a 7-pin sealed connector at the rear
bumper. An 8-wire camper/fifth-wheel wiring harness (UY2)
is also available and requires the Heavy-Duty Trailering
Equipment Package (Z82).
1 Before you bu y a vehicle or use it for tra ilering, ca refully revi ew the Traileri ng section of th e Owner’s Man ual. The weight of pass engers, ca rgo and optio ns or accesso ries may reduc e the amount you c an tow. 2 Gross Combination Weight Rating. 3 Fleet only.
11 SILVERADO HD FIFTH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
These charts specify the trailer weight rating for your vehicle equipped with a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer. (For conventional ratings, see page 10.) The maximum rating for a weight-carrying
hitch is listed in the General Trailering Notes below. Do not exceed the trailer weight rating.
1
For more information, ask your Chevrolet dealer.
SILVERADO 2500HD AND 3500HD FIFTH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
1
REGULAR CAB
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR 2 2500HD LONG BOX 2WD 3500HD LONG BOX 2WD 3500HD LONG BOX 2WD DUALLY 2500HD LONG BOX 4x4 3500HD LONG BOX4x4 3500HD LONG BOX 4x4 DUALLY
Vort ec 6.0L V8 4.10 20,500 14,800 14,600 14,200 14,500 14,300 13,900
Vort ec 6.0L V8 3.73
Duramax 6.6L
Tur bo- Dies el V 8
3
16,000 9,500 10,100 9,700 9,300 9,800 9,4 00
3.73 24,500 17,900 — — 17,600 17,500 —
3.73 30,500 — — — — — 2 3,200
4-DOOR DOUBLE CAB
2500HD STANDARD
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
Vort ec 6.0L V8 4.10 20,500 14,500 14,400 14,200 13,800 14,200 14,100 13,900 13,500
Vort ec 6.0L V8 3.73
Duramax 6.6L
Tur bo- Dies el V 8
3
3.73 24,500 17,600 17,500 17,500 — 17,300 17,200 17,200 —
3.73 30,500 — — — 23,000 — — — 22,800
2
16,000 10,000 9,900 9 ,700 9,300 9,700 9,600 9, 400 9,000
BOX 2WD
2500HD LONG
BOX 2WD
3500HD LONG
BOX 2WD
3500HD LONG BOX
2WD DUALLY
2500HD STANDARD
BOX 4x4
2500HD LONG
BOX 4x4
3500HD LONG
BOX 4x4
3500HD LONG BOX
4x4 DUAL LY
CREW CAB
2500HD
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
2
STANDARD BOX
2WD
Vort ec 6.0L V8 4.10 20,500 14,300 14,200 14,100 14,000 13,700 14,000 13,800 13,900 13,700 13,300
Vort ec 6.0L V8 3.73
Duramax 6.6L
Tur bo- Dies el V 8
3
16,000 9, 800 9,700 9,600 9,500 9,200 9,500 9,300 9,400 9,2 00 8,800
3.73 24,500 17,900 17,100 1 7,40 0 17,300 — 17,100 16,400 17,100 16,900 —
3.73 30,500 — — — — 22,900 — — — — 22,600
2500HD
LONG BOX 2WD
3500HD
STANDARD BOX
2WD
3500HD
LONG BOX
2WD
3500HD
LONG BOX
2WD DUALLY
2500HD
STANDARD BOX
4x4
2500HD
LONG BOX 4x4
3500HD
STANDARD BOX
4x4
3500HD
LONG BOX
4x4
3500HD
LONG BOX
4x4 DUALLY
GENERAL TRAILERING NOTES A 7-wire trailering harness is
standard on Silverado HD models. Where available, the
Heavy-Duty Trailering Equipment Package (Z82) provides a
trailer hitch platform and a 7-pin sealed connector at the rear
bumper. An 8-wire camper/fifth-wheel wiring harness (UY2)
is also available and requires the Heavy-Duty Trailering
Equipment Package (Z82).
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MODEL NOTE All automatic
transmission models are equipped with an engine oil cooler
(KC4) and an oil-to-air transmission oil cooler (KNP).
1 Before you bu y a vehicle or use it for tra ilering, ca refully revi ew the Traileri ng section of th e Owner’s Man ual. The weight of pass engers, ca rgo and optio ns or accesso ries may reduc e the amount you c an tow. 2 Gross Combination Weight Rating. 3 Fleet only.
FIFTH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK KINGPIN WEIGHT NOTES
Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15% to 25%
of total loaded trailer weight. The addition of trailer kingpin
weight cannot cause vehicle to exceed Rear Gross Axle Weight
Rating (RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). These
ratings can be found on the certification label located on the
driver door or doorframe. Fifth-wheel hitch is available as a
dealer-installed accessory on select models. See the
Trailering Basics for more trailering information.
FIFTH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TRAILERING NOTES
Silverado HD can be equipped with a fifth-wheel or gooseneck
trailer hitch. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for
installation, but note that the hitch must be attached to the
truck frame. Do not use the pickup bed for additional support.
For proper kingpin tongue load distribution and control of the
trailer, the hitch must be mounted so the kingpin load is placed
(over or slightly) ahead of the rear axle centerline. Fifth-wheel
trailer kingpin loads are higher than conventional trailer
tongue loads, so pay careful attention to the truck’s payload
capacity and rear axle weight ratings. Your Chevy dealer can
help you calculate the maximum allowable payload and GVWR
required for your fifth-wheel trailering application. The
weight of any additional equipment and all passengers must
be subtracted from the payload weight to determine the
maximum kingpin load available.
12 COLORADO, TAHOE, SUBURBAN, EQUINOX AND TRAVERSE TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
COLORADO TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
2.5L 4-cylinder 4.10 8,500 3,500 3,500 3,500 3,500
3.6L V6
3.6L V6 with Trailering Package
TAHOE/SUBURBAN TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
EcoTec3 5.3L V8 with Max Trailering Package 3.42 14,000 8,600 8,300 8,400 8,000
EcoTec3 5.3L V8
When us ing a weight- carrying h itch, the max imum trail er weight is 5 ,000 lbs. w ith a 600-lb . trailer ton gue weight . A weight-di stributin g hitch and sway c ontrol are req uired for trai ler tongue w eights great er than 600 lb s.
TRAVERSE TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
3.6L V6 VVT DI FWD
3.6L V6 VVT DI AWD
When us ing a weight- carrying h itch, the max imum trail er weight is 5 ,000 lbs. w ith a 600-lb . trailer ton gue weight . A weight-di stributin g hitch and sway c ontrol are req uired for trai ler weight s greater than 5 ,000 lbs.
EQUINOX TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
2.4L I-4 SIDI FWD
2.4L I-4 SIDI AWD
3.6L V6 SIDI FWD
3.6L V6 SIDI AWD
Weight -distribu ting hitch an d sway control n ot required .
1
2
3.42 12,000 3,500 3,500 3,500 3,500
3.42 12,000 7,000 7,000 7,000 7,000
1
2
3.08 12,000 6,600 6,300 6,400 6,000
1
2
3.16
3.16
1
3.23
3.53
2.77
2.77
10,250
10,450
2
5,787
5,952
7,937
8,157
EXTENDED CAB 2WD EXTENDED CAB 4x4 CREW CAB 2WD CREW CAB 4x4
TAHOE 2WD SUBURBAN 2WD TAHOE 4WD SUBURBAN 4WD
FWD AWD
5,200
—
FWD AWD
1,500
—
3,500
—
—
5,200
—
1,500
—
3,500
NOTES ON COLORADO, TAHOE AND SUBURBAN Trailer weight
ratings are calculated assuming a base vehicle, except for
any option(s) necessary to achieve the rating, plus driver.
The weight of other optional equipment, passengers and
cargo will reduce the trailer weight your vehicle can tow. See
your Chevrolet dealer for additional details. Trailer tongue
weight should be 10% to 15% of total loaded trailer weight (up
to 1,000 lbs.). Addition of trailer tongue weight must not cause
vehicle weights to exceed Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating
(RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The HeavyDuty Trailering Package (K5L) includes auxiliary external
NOTES ON EQUINOX Trailer tongue weight should be 10% to 15%
of total loaded trailer weight (up to 350 lbs.). Addition of trailer
tongue weight must not cause vehicle weights to exceed
Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR). Maximum trailer weight rating requires
the available Trailering Package.
NOTES ON TRAVERSE Trailer weight ratings are calculated
assuming a base vehicle, except for any option(s) necessary to
achieve the rating, plus driver. The weight of other optional
equipment, passengers and cargo will reduce the trailer
weight your vehicle can tow. See your Chevrolet dealer for
additional details. Trailer tongue weight should be 10% to 15% of
total loaded trailer weight (up to 600 lbs.). Addition of trailer
tongue weight must not cause vehicle weights to exceed Rear
Gross Axle Weight Rating (RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR). Maximum trailer weight rating requires the
factory-installed Trailering Package.
transmission fluid cooler and engine oil cooler.
1 Before you bu y a vehicle or use it for tra ilering, ca refully revi ew the Traileri ng section of th e Owner’s Man ual. The weight of pass engers, ca rgo and optio ns or accesso ries may reduc e the amount you c an tow. 2 Gross Combination Weight Rating.
13 EXPRESS PASSENGER VAN AND EXPRESS CARGO VAN TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
EXPRESS PASSENGER VAN TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
Vortec 4.8L V8 3.42 13,000 6,700 6,700 6,400
Vortec 6.0L V8 3.42 16,000 9,800 9,700 9,300
Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 3.54 17,000 — 10,000 9,700
EXPRESS CARGO VAN TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS
ENGINE AXLE RATIO GCWR
Vort ec 4.8L V8 3.42 13,000 7,400 7,200 7,400 7,100
Vortec 6.0L V8 3.42 16,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000
Vortec 6.0L V8 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8
NOTES ON EXPRESS Trailer tongue weight should be 10% to
15% of total loaded trailer weight (up to 1,000 lbs.). Addition of
trailer tongue weight cannot cause vehicle weights to exceed
Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR). The standard base cooling system
includes all content required to attain maximum trailer weight
rating. No optional cooling equipment is available. The
Heavy-Duty Trailering Equipment Package (Z82) includes
trailer hitch platform and 7-wire trailer wiring harness.
1
3.42
3.42
3.54
3.54
1
16,000
16,000
17,000
18,500
2
2
2500 2500 EXTENDED WHEELBASE 3500 3500 EXTENDED WHEELBASE
9,900 (3-Tank)
9,600 (4-Tank)
10,000
—
2500 3500 3500 EXTENDED WHEELBASE
9,700 (3-Tank)
9,400 (4-Tank)
10,000
—
9,800 (3-Tank)
9,500 (4-Tank)
10,000
—
9,600 (3-Tank)
9,300 (4-Tank)
10,000
—
1 Before you bu y a vehicle or use it for tra ilering, ca refully revi ew the Traileri ng section of th e Owner’s Man ual. The weight of pass engers, ca rgo and optio ns or accesso ries may reduc e the amount you c an tow. 2 Gross Combination Weight Rating.
When us ing a weight- carrying hi tch, the maxi mum trailer w eight is 5,0 00 lbs. with a 6 00-lb. ton gue weight. A w eight-dis tributing hitch and sw ay control are required fo r trailer wei ghts greater th an 5,000 lbs.
14 DINGHY TOWING
DINGHY TOWING Many motor home drivers like to dinghy-tow
a smaller vehicle as they travel. The chart below shows which
Chevrolet vehicles can be dinghy-towed without a dolly or
trailer and with all four wheels on the ground. Rear-wheeldrive and all-wheel-drive trucks should not be dinghy-towed.
Towed vehicles (or dollies or trailers carrying them) should
have a separate functional braking system.
DINGHY TOWING SETUP PROCEDURE Use extra caution
whenever towing another vehicle. Do not exceed the towing
vehicle’s ratings such as the gross combination weight rating
(GCWR) by adding the weight of the dinghy-towed vehicle or
vehicle damage may result.
SPECIFIC DINGHY TOWING INSTRUCTIONS FOR COLORADO
AND SILVERADO 4x4 MODELS WITH A 2-SPEED TRANSFER
CASE (WITH A NEUTRAL AND A 4-LOW POSITION):
1. Tow only in a forward direction. Position the vehicle to
be towed behind the towing vehicle.
2. Securely attach the vehicle to the tow vehicle.
3. Firmly apply the parking brake, start the engine and
shift the transmission to Neutral. Caution: Shifting the
transmission to Neutral can cause the vehicle to roll
and may cause personal injury.
4. Shift the transfer case to Neutral. Caution: Shifting the
transfer case to Neutral can cause the vehicle to roll, even
if the transmission is in Park (automatic), and may cause
personal injury.
5. Check for transfer case Neutral by shifting transmission to
Reverse, then Drive, and verify that there is no engagement.
6. While the transmission is in Drive, turn the ignition key
to Accessory.
7. Shift the transmission to Park.
8. Depower the vehicle by removing the negative cable at the
battery. This procedure must be followed or the steering
column could be damaged.
9. Cover the negative battery post with a nonconducting
material and prevent any contact between the negative
battery terminal and the negative battery cable. Notice: If
power is provided by accidental contact of the cable and
terminals, damage to the towed vehicle may result, which
would not be covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
10. Verify the steering column is unlocked.
11. Release the parking brake only after verifying the towed
vehicle is attached to the towing vehicle.
12. The ignition key must remain in the towed vehicle.
Manually lock the doors and use second key for access.
DISCONNECTING THE TOWED VEHICLE
1. Leave the truck connected to the tow vehicle.
2. Connect the battery.
3. Set the parking brake and place transmission in Park.
4. Shift the transfer case to 2 HI.
5. Disconnect the truck from the towing vehicle.
6. Reset any lost presets.
FLAT (DINGHY) TOWING CAPABILITY
CAMARO COLORADO CORVETTE CRUZE EQUINOX EXPRESS IMPALA MALIBU SILVERADO SONIC SPARK SPARK EV SS SUBURBAN TAHOE TRAVERSE TRAX VO LT
2WD No No No Yes
4x4 — Yes — — — — — — Ye s — — — — Ye s
AWD — — — — Ye s — — — — — — — — — — Ye s No —
1 With manual transmission only. 2 Requires available 2-speed transfer case.
1
Yes No No Ye s No Ye s
1
Yes No No No No Ye s No No
2
Yes
2
— — —
15 DINGHY TOWING (CONTINUED)
TRAILERING WITH YOUR CHEVROLET Chevrolet vehicles are
built strong and durable to handle the demands of trailering.
Certain equipment that prepares a Chevrolet vehicle for
trailering is standard: a large fuel tank, a high-capacity
alternator and a front stabilizer bar. For other available
trailering-related equipment, talk to your dealer. You’ll need a
hitch, of course, and a wide selection of hitch types is available,
either as factory equipment or from your dealer. In addition, if
you plan to tow frequently, you should equip your Chevrolet
vehicle with the available Trailering Package. This package
includes a trailer hitch platform and an electrical harness. Also
required with this package are a hitch ball, a mounting head,
and possibly weight-distributing and anti-sway assemblies;
these are available through aftermarket sources. Please
carefully review your Chevrolet Vehicle Owner’s Manual for
important safety information about trailering with your vehicle.
WORDS ABOUT THIS GUIDE We have tried to make this guide
comprehensive and factual. We reserve the right, however, to
make changes at any time and without notice in prices, colors,
materials, equipment, specifications, models and availability.
Information may have been updated since the time of
publication. Please check with your Chevrolet dealer for
complete details. Chevrolet reserves the right to lengthen or
shorten the model year for any product for any reason, or to
start and end model years at different times. Chevrolet vehicles
are equipped with engines produced by GM Powertrain or other
suppliers to General Motors worldwide. Allison is a registered
trademark of Allison Transmission, Inc. GM, the GM logo,
Chevrolet, the Chevrolet logo, and the slogans, emblems,
vehicle model names, vehicle body designs and other marks
appearing in this guide are the trademarks and/or service
marks of General Motors, its subsidiaries, affiliates or licensors.
©2014 General Motors. All rights reserved.
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