When my wife and I married her uncle gave us his old '03 1500 looks just like the truck on here but it was a dark blue. It had over 400,000 miles on original motor and trans. Now the old gal has way over 500,000 and she's still going strong on us
In NY the 2000's chevy/gmc truck are the only ones still on the road from that Era. Sold my 2014 to buy a 2001 because all the electronics started having software issues, they won't last as long and be affordable to maintain.
I have a 2001 Chevy Silverado 1500 work truck Long bed, color white, completely basic, crank roll up windows, vinyl flooring, Cost a couple dollars for a basic key, that's right no fob or key chip, just a good old fashioned metal key. The ignition is so worn out the key just comes out of the ignition even when it's on. Nowadays you couldn't do that with more modern trucks. 4.8 liter engine with almost 194,000 miles, bought it 3 years ago, used to be a motorcycle hauler at a dealership, then had 168,000 miles paid almost $2400, since then it's been a great truck. By next year it will be considered a Classic at 20 years. Good old Chevrolet !
Mine too. I have a 2010 1500 4x4 with a 4.8, I bought a small 18ft travel trailer weighs maybe 2800 pounds. It'll do it but up hill is a bitch. I try to keep it between 3 to 4000 rpms and I leave it in 3rd gear. Occasionally I need to drop down to 2nd gear and punch it. The trans temp gauge goes to about 195-200 degrees
@@vinnieortega I installed a hayden trans cooler from parts geek. Its a 55$ kit and has made a signature difference. On a 92 degree day it stayed around 160.
No brake controller, I use 4.8 to pull 15ft trailer 300 gal tank full water with pressure washer and a 60 gal tank in best with softwash system and sometimes a 55 gal drum full of chemical plus 30 to 60 gal tank mentioned above with Chem in it
I have a 96 2500 Suburban with the 7.4L. When towing 4k pound car and trailer, almost forget it's back there. If anyone is planning to tow a trailer over 3k pounds once a week or more often, just get the 3/4 ton truck. The right truck will do the job more reliably and safely.
One of my off road shops near me I asked him about towing my Jeep with my truck which is a 2wd crew cab Silverado with the 4.8 when I said it had the 4.8 he said go to 4.10 gears and I should be able to tow it just fine
The 4.8l can do 7-8k towing but not on a regular basis. But it needs upgrades to the hitch , axle gearing, bigger brakes. and best if do it's towing on a manual transmission not automatic. If looking to buy and plan on doing even moderate towing just get a 5.3, 6.0l, or the huge 8.1l. The 4.8l was to get better gas mileage and very light towing.
I towed a friends truck back home from the lake one time with my '05 silverado 1500, with the 4.3 V6. His truck is just like yours, long bed, half ton V8. He had a tow bar, so I wasn't pulling a trailer too. But his truck probably weighs 5000 lbs I'm guessing? Well the 4.3 V6 did the job, but man it was pretty slow going. I managed 55 on straights, and as low as 40 on hills. The rpm was around 3500 most of the time which really isn't that bad. Usually I just tow my little Casita camping trailer which only weighs 2100 lbs, and it pulls that with no problem. And that's well within the maximum tow rating of 3900 lbs.
@@mohamedly5557 It would probably do it, but you would have to keep the speed pretty low, and avoid steep hills. The tow rating on my truck is only 3900lbs, so 6000 is well over that limit. I think it could probably tow 6000lbs but it will be struggling. Good luck with it!
Brandon Jackson if it’s on a regular basis yea I’d buy a 2500. Just depends on a lot of things like how far you’ll pull, your type of environment, etc... if u have a 2500 you’ll be able to comfortably pull it no doubt.
A newer 1/2 ton (they’re bigger than the pre 2007) that’s optimized to tow should haul a 7500 lb camper with minimal issue. It really depends on what you’re gonna use the truck the most. If it’s mostly to haul, the 3/4 ton would be the way to go. If it’s just occasional towing and mostly driving without a trailer, a newer 1/2 ton would be more economical. I’ve towed a 7000 lb trailer a few times with a 2011 crew cab 4x4 5.3L, 6 speed auto Silverado and it handled them with relative ease. The factory brake controller worked flawlessly. Even in traffic, unoptimized loads and/or blowing out a tire on the trailer, it pulled remarkably well. Typically, I pulled that trailer with a 2000 F450 7.3 diesel (4x4, 12’ dump bed). The 14,000 lb curb weight of the F450 made the 7000 lb trailer feel lighter than with the 2011 Silverado in front of it (the F450 could handle over double the 7k weight), but the Silverado was much more maneuverable, stopped/accelerated equally well, and felt very composed on the highway. Though, if you’re planning to just use the truck to haul the trailer and don’t mind the added cost, I’d go with the 3/4 ton. “Overkill is underrated” -Hannibal Smith
I put 3500 lbs of scrap steel in my 97 1500 if I didn't have helper springs and air shocks my bumper would of been hitting the ground good video I like these old trucks
This was such a helpful video. I recently towed my 76 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham d'Elegance with my 05 1500W/T that has the 4.8L. It was about 35 miles, and I was nervous to do it. I knew I was over doing the recommended limit, and I've never really towed something that heavy. Car and trailer weighed in at about 8,000 lbs. The truck I have also has the trans temp cooler, HD trailering package and the HD Suspension package as well. I also modded the factory cluster to add the trans. temp gauge. The trans cooler makes a great difference. albeit, It was mostly flat terrain, But there were some small grades. It managed them with relative ease. I was able to maintain 60-65mph the whole way. I did loose some speed when encountering a hill, but I could have done better to keep an eye out to maintain my speed. Oh, and I used the factory hitch. I'm not really sure what its rated for, but it took all that weight without issues. But I don't think I will be towing that much weight anytime soon again. I only needed it for this weekend to take my car to a show.
I have towed a 5k 24' tt over 8000 miles. With my well maintained 06 crewcab 4.8 and It will do it but I wish there were a couple more gears under my chair. Climbed mountains drove thru deserts and fought some windy days across the plains. Just motor along in third 2500 rpm is 65mph, 2700 is 70. Trans cooler is huge and stock tire size is important. Truck doesnt burn a drop of oil and pulls 10/11 mpg. You will get passed and might fall on your face a couple times. Dont forget your shades 😎
My dad has a 1999 5.4L 1500 sivrodo z71 with 400k miles and most of its miles has been while it was pulling something we pulled Skid steer over 10k lb it didn't like it but it did the sivrodos are great
i'm surprised by what my 04 with 5.3 and 3.73 gears will pull if i have it in tow mode and use the right gear for the terrain i'm driving. 252k on it, original engine and trans with no problems at all. just added a massive trans cooler and huge aluminum transmission pan.
I also have an 04 5.3. It should have no problem hauling a heavy duty trailer like the one in the video empty right? What would the limit be before I have to add stuff. Finally what’s recommended to add to tow heavy?
i added a huge transmission cooler, massive aluminum transmission pan, and "super springs" in the rear along with load range E tires. i have pulled 10k locally without a problem, take advantage of 1st gear for starting from a stop and keep it out of overdrive, make sure your trailer brakes work well and you have a good brake controller@@jesusarroyo651
My 4.8 has been running wild in deep south alabama for 370k and ive towed with it, mudded with it, lost races in it, cut cookies at walmart, parked it for 4 months straight too. 4.8 is unkillable
I have a lifted 4.8 going to be towing a Prius, on an estimated 5 hour drive. I do have a brake controller. Just worried maybe it won’t be able to handle the weight
How’d it do ? For me I pull like ~10,000 pounds daily and brakes are huge issue for the truck takes far too long to actually come to complete stop and then to take off takes even longer
I recently picked up an 04 Sierra 1500 ext cab 4x4 with the 4.8L and I’ve been contemplating if it was a mistake cuz i need to be able to tow my car that weighs 3500lbs on a 1500-2000lb trailer plus another 250-500lbs of tools & equipment for a much longer haul than 250 miles… After seeing this I think im gonna have a truck for sale here in a few. 😩
A 2500 or even a 6.0 would be better. You could regear to 4.10 if you’re on stocks, which would help a lot, if you don’t want to deal with getting another truck.
@@olivierroy1301 the transmission is 100% rated for that, actually a little bit higher. The 60e is not a bad transmission at all, people just over heat the piss out of them and leave there trucks in od while towing and wonder why they blow up every other month
@@Ligmaballz64 I agree, I think I didn't read correctly. All I know is that if you leave it in o.d., not using the tow mode button while accelerating or going up hills, it can burn. It's not made for heavy hauling though, it couldn't handle daily use for 6000lbs charges for long.
The issue with towing heavy loads with this rig (I've got an '06 SILVERADO 1500 w/4.8) isnt the ponies and torque applied to tow the load. The issue lies in the rear axle, suspension, transmission and most Importantly THE BRAKES. You can pack a TON of weight on these things and MOVE IT. The problem lies in STOPPING it. Sure, itll likely (loosest form of the word) stop the first couple trips on its own accord. The problem lies in when it DOESNT stop it. And man, if you on grade with a sizable weight behind you (even with trailer brakes installed on the deck youve got hitched up) its gonna get REAL bad, REAL quick. And if, and more importantly WHEN it does break loose on you, all HELL's rollin in with it
The 4.8 transmission is much better transmission than a 5.3 or 6 L . As my 4.8 with 360,000 on it . The one thing I had to do was fix the Bearings in the rear end . I have not pushed my truck hard .
My 4.8 sierra pulled a 2017 duramax for 3 hours after husband put gas in the duramax on accident... & he didn't know how to be towed either... Scary shituation
@@justinhoogstra8686 we should own wtf we need to pull our heacy equipment. Wtf are you talking about? Accidents happen... Especially when you fill several vehicles up that take different fuel...& youve got a lot on your mind. You shouldn't be rude to people.
I got u bro , I'm trying to see if I can tow a 6 thousand pound camper ! I'm purchasing it will it work ! Just to get to my destination I have the 4.8 Silverado 05
Thanks this video is killer Im fixing to give up a duramax for won of these trucks the only difference is it's a 5.3 instead of a 4.8 and I'm only pulling a hot rod every so often so I think the truck will do fine
I hated my 4.8....had to put the pedal through the floor to get on the interstate and it constantly searched for gears, ultimately leading to premature transmission failure....plus the oil burning....truck was garbage at 90k miles
That’s for the video, I have a 2011 Silverado 4.8 with trailer brakes and will be towing a 4,500 lbs rv trailer for a 900 miles round trip. Do you think my truck will do fine?
I have a 2012 ext cab 4x4 4.8l with 3.23 gears. It’s awful for towing. I tow my rock crawler which is about 5k truck and trailer, maybe 6k with passengers and gear. Truck is beyond slow but just rolled over 200k and has been reliable. Only replaced brakes and wheel bearings on the front. I tow every weekend and usually in the mountains. Next month I’m gonna buy a new diesel.
Jimmy4x4 Socal yea the gear ratio makes a huge difference. I tow around 8000lbs with mine on a regular basis but I also have 3:73s. Mine is slow going up inclines towing that weight but it doesn’t bother me all that much. I’d like to get a diesel myself but maintainence cost are just to high for me and I prefer the simplicity of GM gas engines
put a tow package for a ex cab z71 5.3 there 4.10 postitrac it helps greatly my 1500 swb2wd just got 4.33 gears n auburn locker but I do have a towing cam headers supercharger it had a lot of mods I just done the gears n my trailer has electric over hydraulic disc brakes so I tow my truggie threw the mountains it does good
Thanks! I'm about to buy my first truck and an looking at an 02 Silverado with 140,000 miles. I need a truck to tow a 3500 lb (dry) camper trailer on a round-trip cross country. It's got the V8 4.8 vortec. This was a very informative video! So, I should be aces with just a 3500 lb camper on this truck, even out west with the moutains & heat?
Yes, you will be golden! Still recommend a brake controller if the camper is equipped with breaks , which I’m sure that it is. Keep he fluids changed frequently and the truck should last a long time. Happy travels !
I got an 03 Silverado LT 4x4, 5.3L with the Z71 package and I think it was code GT4 for 3.73 gears, From what I could find online the max tow capacity is 8,800lbs Its a little bit difficult to figure out if that's accurate though, because its a fiberglass step-side truck.. I can tell you from experience I've owned C30 1 tons, and they road smoother than this Silverado does, this thing will send you through the ceiling if you hit a pot hole. So I'm not exactly sure, its stiff as hell though? like a 1 ton... I can't drink coffee safely in this thing I know that. Anyway, point is I wanna use it for towing now not sure if there is a better way to narrow down the exact weight it can tow "legally"
It will be in your user manual, these gmt800 trucks came with the ratings. (I think the fords did too). Then multiply the rating by 0.8 and that will be your safe tow rating.
My 2000 Silverado is a 2wd, RCLB, 4.8L/4L60e, without the trailer package (coil spring front, not torsion bars), and it doesn’t have a trailer brake controller or weight distributing hitch. I towed my 68 Camino (Iron 454) on a heavy 18ft trailer (usually haul my 6500 lb tractor with a different truck). The Camino and trailer combined probably weighed about 6000 lbs. The trailer has heavy duty ramps mounted on the rear, forcing me to move the Camino forward more than I wanted; putting a lot of weight on the nose of the trailer. The rear of the truck sagged significantly. I hauled it to a shop about 20 miles each way with some hills. I kept the trans out of overdrive, which wasn’t a problem doing 55-60mph with the tach at around 2700 rpm (avoided OD because of past failures with a different 4L60e). If I was able to balance the load better on the trailer, the suspension would t have sagged as much and would have made the trip better. My biggest concern was hurting the trans, leading me to slowly roll into the throttle from stops and with each gear change. Power wise, the 4.8 won’t set any records, but it can pull decently despite its small size. The biggest thing is that it likes/needs to rev. Peak torque is above 4K rpm. The wide gear ratios of the 4L60 don’t help, nor does trying to be gentle on shifts. The narrower gearing and durability of the 4L80 would have made applying the power of the 4.8 better; allowing it to stay in the meat of the powerband with shifts and piece of mind that the trans wouldn’t grenade by staying on the throttle between shifts. TL;DR: Despite not being set up for towing heavy, my 4.8 RCLB handled a nose heavy trailer fairly well; but it’s not something I’d want to do regularly because of premature wear.
I don't know, if it's a one time deal and you're not going too far it can be done. I think about the transmission. If it's a half ton truck with the 4l60e, I would reconsider the idea.
Yes, and no. Example- I have a 2019 Tacoma 4 cylinder 4x4. It’s advertised to tow 3500 pounds. The V6 version is rated at 6500. They’re both the same trucks. Transmissions, suspension, breaks, etc. the limiting factor of mine is the hp/ ft lb torque. Mine ‘could’ do 6500, but you risk damage to the engine/you cannot get safely up to speed.
Hey man, quick question. I have a 2010 4.8L. I recently replaced my 3.42's with 4.10's. With towing now, do you recommend leaving it in 3 or D, or both while towing?
Hey man I have a question. So I have a 2005 silverado 5.3 and it feels weak pulling a dual axel trailer with a big zero turn on it. Any ideas you have for me to make it stronger?
@@danyaelturner414 yes but I mean like overall takeoff. I know it’s some weight but I don’t think my truck should feel so weak pulling something light if that makes sense
@@machoman616 yeah you might have a different issue, i can tow my 2 ton camper fine, granted its slow at first but it still picks up pretty well, and thats me with a 4.8v8 with some minor upgrades to it
Shoot I pulled my 7000 pound pressure washing trailer with my 4.3 Jimmy sags so bad that the tires rub on bumps and no brakes had to pull it for about 200 miles my work truck was totaled so I had to use my spare vehicle just for about a week
Im watching this video because im going to tow my buddies car which is about 3k pounds. I have a 5k towing capacity trailer package i should be good right? Its about a 250 mile trip.
1776 Outdoors all I got is a o/d off button I don’t got a tow haul mode button so towing a 6by12 trailer loaded with furniture I should just leave it in drive?
Mike Brown I think you’ll be fine leaving it in drive or turning OD off . Won’t hurt either way. 6x12 trailer with some furniture is a pretty light load In my opinion. But like I said , won’t hurt either way.
Hi. I'm looking at a 2012 Silverado 1500 single cab short box 4×4. It has the 4.8. I'm considering buying to tow a 3000lb boat. The boat fully fueled with trailer is just around 3000 if not under. Trip drive times are around 1 to 2 hours. Do you think I would be okay to purchase. Its about impossible in ohio to find a regular cab short box Silverado for some reason. Truck has 70k rust free and they want 15k for it.
King Conker power ratings between the 4.8 and 5.7 tbi are similar. Has a lot of factors involved. Flat terrain ? Hilly terrain ? Size of trailer ? Condition of rear suspension of the pulling truck, brakes (you need a brake controller for long distance/ heavily populated roads) . Overall shouldn’t be a problem. I towed that Tahoe 250 some miles and was fine . Make sure the trailer your hooking up to is level with the truck. Inspect brakes and brake lines and fluid level. You’ll be ok
the vortec 350 has plenty of power to tow uphill, however, the 4l60e transmission is its achilles heel. check your oil often as well because intake manifold gasket failure might happen at the 150k to 175k mile mark
Hey you really seem to know a lot about trucks, how much do you think I could sell my 95 F150 XL, single cab short bed for. Bought her for $1,400, she has a knock in the engine, struggles really bad to shift gears and the engine doesn’t have long to live. Thank you!
1776 Outdoors it’s a 2Wd, it has like 2 small dents but the paint is had absolutely no rust, I’m letting her go for $700 that sounds pretty fsir to me! Thank you so much!
Im trying to sell my Toyota (V6) and looking at a 03 Silverado 1500 4,8. Don’t do a lot of towing really but when I do it will get the job done. This one has 1802k, 4wd ext cab and my First chevy
I need opinions I have a 03 1500 extended 2wd 5.3 and i wana tow an exact same truck. And i need to tow it 359 mils is it to much for the truck to handle
I did it with a 4.8. You’re going to need a brake controller , and make sure the trailer is loaded correctly, don’t have the tongue of the trailer to high or low. Have it even and straight as possible. You should be fine
Transmission and rear end will be toast. You could pull a mobile home with a Buick but i wouldn't recommend it. Anybody with any common sense knows a half ton is a car with a pickup bed
I love those older Chevrolet trucks from year 88 through 06 they would last forever with proper maintenance! Great vid btw
I've had my '05 Chevy for 14 years now (bought new) and it's still running great, most definitely the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned.
kosmosleha no it’s got a little different motor but they are still excellent motor
When my wife and I married her uncle gave us his old '03 1500 looks just like the truck on here but it was a dark blue. It had over 400,000 miles on original motor and trans. Now the old gal has way over 500,000 and she's still going strong on us
In NY the 2000's chevy/gmc truck are the only ones still on the road from that Era. Sold my 2014 to buy a 2001 because all the electronics started having software issues, they won't last as long and be affordable to maintain.
Old comment but I gotta 99 4.8 and it has been drove like shit and I mean like shit pedal to the floor for around 300K miles lmao
4.8 is a good work motor. Treat it nice and it will tow
I have a 2000 2500 with the 6.0 vortec, just like you it won't win any races but it will do a LOT of work. Good vid!
A 6.0 can win a race. Not stock tho
I have a 2001 Chevy Silverado 1500 work truck Long bed, color white, completely basic, crank roll up windows, vinyl flooring, Cost a couple dollars for a basic key, that's right no fob or key chip, just a good old fashioned metal key. The ignition is so worn out the key just comes out of the ignition even when it's on. Nowadays you couldn't do that with more modern trucks. 4.8 liter engine with almost 194,000 miles, bought it 3 years ago, used to be a motorcycle hauler at a dealership, then had 168,000 miles paid almost $2400, since then it's been a great truck. By next year it will be considered a Classic at 20 years. Good old Chevrolet !
My 2010 4.8 does just fine staying under 70. It'll pull a decent trailer faster but it wants to hold 3k rmps and trans temp starts climbing.
Mine too. I have a 2010 1500 4x4 with a 4.8, I bought a small 18ft travel trailer weighs maybe 2800 pounds. It'll do it but up hill is a bitch. I try to keep it between 3 to 4000 rpms and I leave it in 3rd gear. Occasionally I need to drop down to 2nd gear and punch it. The trans temp gauge goes to about 195-200 degrees
@@vinnieortega I installed a hayden trans cooler from parts geek. Its a 55$ kit and has made a signature difference. On a 92 degree day it stayed around 160.
Transcooler
Same here except hold at 2k
No brake controller, I use 4.8 to pull 15ft trailer 300 gal tank full water with pressure washer and a 60 gal tank in best with softwash system and sometimes a 55 gal drum full of chemical plus 30 to 60 gal tank mentioned above with Chem in it
I have a 96 2500 Suburban with the 7.4L. When towing 4k pound car and trailer, almost forget it's back there.
If anyone is planning to tow a trailer over 3k pounds once a week or more often, just get the 3/4 ton truck. The right truck will do the job more reliably and safely.
A 1/2 ton truck will tow 3k lbs all day every day. Thanks for watching !
@@Outdoors-ty8hpI'm glad you told that punk azz off even da brotha's know he was being cocky
Idk why I’m watching this. I have an 03 c1500 single cab short bed. But I’m still gonna send it. 🤘🏻
Send it right to the junkyard?lol
One of my off road shops near me I asked him about towing my Jeep with my truck which is a 2wd crew cab Silverado with the 4.8 when I said it had the 4.8 he said go to 4.10 gears and I should be able to tow it just fine
That's what I plan on doing
I tow a bounce house and rental company every day with a 2002 4.8 sport utility taho with 325k just had to replace a head gasket now I’m still towing
The 4.8l can do 7-8k towing but not on a regular basis. But it needs upgrades to the hitch , axle gearing, bigger brakes. and best if do it's towing on a manual transmission not automatic.
If looking to buy and plan on doing even moderate towing just get a 5.3, 6.0l, or the huge 8.1l. The 4.8l was to get better gas mileage and very light towing.
My 4.8 couldn't tow itself!
I towed a friends truck back home from the lake one time with my '05 silverado 1500, with the 4.3 V6. His truck is just like yours, long bed, half ton V8. He had a tow bar, so I wasn't pulling a trailer too. But his truck probably weighs 5000 lbs I'm guessing? Well the 4.3 V6 did the job, but man it was pretty slow going. I managed 55 on straights, and as low as 40 on hills. The rpm was around 3500 most of the time which really isn't that bad. Usually I just tow my little Casita camping trailer which only weighs 2100 lbs, and it pulls that with no problem. And that's well within the maximum tow rating of 3900 lbs.
Mate i got the same truck long bed 2wd V6 3.23 dif. I've never towed before, do you think it can handle a trailer of 6000 lbs gvwr?
@@mohamedly5557 It would probably do it, but you would have to keep the speed pretty low, and avoid steep hills. The tow rating on my truck is only 3900lbs, so 6000 is well over that limit. I think it could probably tow 6000lbs but it will be struggling. Good luck with it!
@@trevorjameson3213 thanks for the reply mate i will do my best. I really appreciate your advice
I towed heavy with my 4.8, but I have a 4l80e trans. If you have a 4l60e, I suggest using the tow button, or you can burn the overdrive.
Thank you! Was thinking about buying one to tow my 7500lb camper around but now im gonna buy a 2500 truck.
Brandon Jackson if it’s on a regular basis yea I’d buy a 2500. Just depends on a lot of things like how far you’ll pull, your type of environment, etc... if u have a 2500 you’ll be able to comfortably pull it no doubt.
A newer 1/2 ton (they’re bigger than the pre 2007) that’s optimized to tow should haul a 7500 lb camper with minimal issue. It really depends on what you’re gonna use the truck the most. If it’s mostly to haul, the 3/4 ton would be the way to go. If it’s just occasional towing and mostly driving without a trailer, a newer 1/2 ton would be more economical.
I’ve towed a 7000 lb trailer a few times with a 2011 crew cab 4x4 5.3L, 6 speed auto Silverado and it handled them with relative ease. The factory brake controller worked flawlessly. Even in traffic, unoptimized loads and/or blowing out a tire on the trailer, it pulled remarkably well.
Typically, I pulled that trailer with a 2000 F450 7.3 diesel (4x4, 12’ dump bed). The 14,000 lb curb weight of the F450 made the 7000 lb trailer feel lighter than with the 2011 Silverado in front of it (the F450 could handle over double the 7k weight), but the Silverado was much more maneuverable, stopped/accelerated equally well, and felt very composed on the highway.
Though, if you’re planning to just use the truck to haul the trailer and don’t mind the added cost, I’d go with the 3/4 ton.
“Overkill is underrated” -Hannibal Smith
I put 3500 lbs of scrap steel in my 97 1500 if I didn't have helper springs and air shocks my bumper would of been hitting the ground good video I like these old trucks
2003 GMC Sierra 4.8l 178k miles hard towing did just fine. Trick is service I serviced it like clock work including the transmission.
This was such a helpful video. I recently towed my 76 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham d'Elegance with my 05 1500W/T that has the 4.8L. It was about 35 miles, and I was nervous to do it. I knew I was over doing the recommended limit, and I've never really towed something that heavy. Car and trailer weighed in at about 8,000 lbs. The truck I have also has the trans temp cooler, HD trailering package and the HD Suspension package as well. I also modded the factory cluster to add the trans. temp gauge. The trans cooler makes a great difference. albeit, It was mostly flat terrain, But there were some small grades. It managed them with relative ease. I was able to maintain 60-65mph the whole way. I did loose some speed when encountering a hill, but I could have done better to keep an eye out to maintain my speed. Oh, and I used the factory hitch. I'm not really sure what its rated for, but it took all that weight without issues. But I don't think I will be towing that much weight anytime soon again. I only needed it for this weekend to take my car to a show.
Factory hitch is rated for #5000
I have towed a 5k 24' tt over 8000 miles. With my well maintained 06 crewcab 4.8 and It will do it but I wish there were a couple more gears under my chair. Climbed mountains drove thru deserts and fought some windy days across the plains. Just motor along in third 2500 rpm is 65mph, 2700 is 70. Trans cooler is huge and stock tire size is important. Truck doesnt burn a drop of oil and pulls 10/11 mpg. You will get passed and might fall on your face a couple times. Dont forget your shades 😎
My dad has a 1999 5.4L 1500 sivrodo z71 with 400k miles and most of its miles has been while it was pulling something we pulled Skid steer over 10k lb it didn't like it but it did the sivrodos are great
Gear ratios play a big role too a lot of the 4.8s don’t have the same gears as the 5.3s, most of them are 3.23 or 3.42
Depends on the RPO codes on the glovebox.
Yeah...4.8 with 3.42s here....total dogshit for hauling/towing
i'm surprised by what my 04 with 5.3 and 3.73 gears will pull if i have it in tow mode and use the right gear for the terrain i'm driving. 252k on it, original engine and trans with no problems at all. just added a massive trans cooler and huge aluminum transmission pan.
I also have an 04 5.3. It should have no problem hauling a heavy duty trailer like the one in the video empty right? What would the limit be before I have to add stuff. Finally what’s recommended to add to tow heavy?
i added a huge transmission cooler, massive aluminum transmission pan, and "super springs" in the rear along with load range E tires. i have pulled 10k locally without a problem, take advantage of 1st gear for starting from a stop and keep it out of overdrive, make sure your trailer brakes work well and you have a good brake controller@@jesusarroyo651
My 4.8 has been running wild in deep south alabama for 370k and ive towed with it, mudded with it, lost races in it, cut cookies at walmart, parked it for 4 months straight too.
4.8 is unkillable
I have a lifted 4.8 going to be towing a Prius, on an estimated 5 hour drive. I do have a brake controller. Just worried maybe it won’t be able to handle the weight
How’d it do ? For me I pull like ~10,000 pounds daily and brakes are huge issue for the truck takes far too long to actually come to complete stop and then to take off takes even longer
Welp. I have towed 7.5k with much weaker vehicles (99 Sienna, 2005 trailblazer 4.2) I think the 4.8 will do fine.
Do you think I can tow a lincoln town car with a gmc envoy
@@skyhigh5517
As long there aren't any steep grades and you don't go on the freeway and you are careful you should be okay.
@@dillonh321 3hour trip from canton Ohio to detroit Michigan in the gmc envoy xl 4.2 i6. Think its possible?
towed 6k with a 4.8 with 373 gears
I’ll be towing 5k with mine 99 with 5.3 and 3.73 and adding a Tru-Cool 40k and Efans
I have a 2004 GMC Sierra with a 4.8 and it’s great only thing I’ve had to do was change the battery
Lol I hope you're changing the oil 😂
Great video sure helped me out, very grateful you did it.
I have a 2000 5.3L suburban and I've towed a 35 foot pontoon for a 3hr drive
They do work !
Weak point is the transmission in these. Change your fluid after towing heavy. 4l60e and 4l65 just have issues.
I have an 02 sierra with the 4.8 and it has 248k on it and still going strong
Nothing wrong with pulling at 55
Yeah that's right pulling not towing. towing means you can do highway speeds and be comfortable
I tow my Vette with my 00 Silverado 4.3 does good
Very helpful, thanks for the video!
Austin Meyer hey man no worries. Glad to help
I recently picked up an 04 Sierra 1500 ext cab 4x4 with the 4.8L and I’ve been contemplating if it was a mistake cuz i need to be able to tow my car that weighs 3500lbs on a 1500-2000lb trailer plus another 250-500lbs of tools & equipment for a much longer haul than 250 miles… After seeing this I think im gonna have a truck for sale here in a few. 😩
A 2500 or even a 6.0 would be better. You could regear to 4.10 if you’re on stocks, which would help a lot, if you don’t want to deal with getting another truck.
You're transmission is not rated for this.
@@olivierroy1301 the transmission is 100% rated for that, actually a little bit higher. The 60e is not a bad transmission at all, people just over heat the piss out of them and leave there trucks in od while towing and wonder why they blow up every other month
@@Ligmaballz64 I agree, I think I didn't read correctly. All I know is that if you leave it in o.d., not using the tow mode button while accelerating or going up hills, it can burn. It's not made for heavy hauling though, it couldn't handle daily use for 6000lbs charges for long.
The issue with towing heavy loads with this rig (I've got an '06 SILVERADO 1500 w/4.8) isnt the ponies and torque applied to tow the load. The issue lies in the rear axle, suspension, transmission and most Importantly THE BRAKES. You can pack a TON of weight on these things and MOVE IT. The problem lies in STOPPING it. Sure, itll likely (loosest form of the word) stop the first couple trips on its own accord. The problem lies in when it DOESNT stop it. And man, if you on grade with a sizable weight behind you (even with trailer brakes installed on the deck youve got hitched up) its gonna get REAL bad, REAL quick. And if, and more importantly WHEN it does break loose on you, all HELL's rollin in with it
The 4.8 transmission is much better transmission than a 5.3 or 6 L . As my 4.8 with 360,000 on it . The one thing I had to do was fix the Bearings in the rear end . I have not pushed my truck hard .
Their the same transmission other than the 6.0
Sounds more like you pulled it more than towing. Towing means it handles it well and do highways speeds
This was very helpful
M town 240 awesome ! Glad I could be of help
My 4.8 sierra pulled a 2017 duramax for 3 hours after husband put gas in the duramax on accident... & he didn't know how to be towed either... Scary shituation
Floridaaa girl should own a Diesel if you can’t put the right fuel in it
@@justinhoogstra8686 we should own wtf we need to pull our heacy equipment. Wtf are you talking about? Accidents happen... Especially when you fill several vehicles up that take different fuel...& youve got a lot on your mind.
You shouldn't be rude to people.
I got u bro , I'm trying to see if I can tow a 6 thousand pound camper ! I'm purchasing it will it work ! Just to get to my destination I have the 4.8 Silverado 05
I got a 99' 5.3L extended cab, and its lifted about 3.5 inches, am I able to pull?
Thanks this video is killer Im fixing to give up a duramax for won of these trucks the only difference is it's a 5.3 instead of a 4.8 and I'm only pulling a hot rod every so often so I think the truck will do fine
Keep the dmax
Do headers and 3" exhaust, Corvette servo for the transmission and a tune. You'll love it. Also recommend a 03-06 instead of a 99-02.
I hated my 4.8....had to put the pedal through the floor to get on the interstate and it constantly searched for gears, ultimately leading to premature transmission failure....plus the oil burning....truck was garbage at 90k miles
That’s for the video, I have a 2011 Silverado 4.8 with trailer brakes and will be towing a 4,500 lbs rv trailer for a 900 miles round trip.
Do you think my truck will do fine?
It’ll be totally fine
lmao I towed a 11,000lbs trailer with a puny ford V6 explorer 😂 MULTIPLE TIMES. You should be more than fine.
I towed 7,000lbs with mine no problem 2WD
I have a 2012 ext cab 4x4 4.8l with 3.23 gears. It’s awful for towing. I tow my rock crawler which is about 5k truck and trailer, maybe 6k with passengers and gear. Truck is beyond slow but just rolled over 200k and has been reliable. Only replaced brakes and wheel bearings on the front. I tow every weekend and usually in the mountains. Next month I’m gonna buy a new diesel.
Jimmy4x4 Socal yea the gear ratio makes a huge difference. I tow around 8000lbs with mine on a regular basis but I also have 3:73s. Mine is slow going up inclines towing that weight but it doesn’t bother me all that much. I’d like to get a diesel myself but maintainence cost are just to high for me and I prefer the simplicity of GM gas engines
put a tow package for a ex cab z71 5.3 there 4.10 postitrac it helps greatly my 1500 swb2wd just got 4.33 gears n auburn locker but I do have a towing cam headers supercharger it had a lot of mods I just done the gears n my trailer has electric over hydraulic disc brakes so I tow my truggie threw the mountains it does good
I wouldnt worry about the 4.8 id worry about the 4l60
Thanks! I'm about to buy my first truck and an looking at an 02 Silverado with 140,000 miles. I need a truck to tow a 3500 lb (dry) camper trailer on a round-trip cross country. It's got the V8 4.8 vortec. This was a very informative video! So, I should be aces with just a 3500 lb camper on this truck, even out west with the moutains & heat?
Yes, you will be golden! Still recommend a brake controller if the camper is equipped with breaks , which I’m sure that it is. Keep he fluids changed frequently and the truck should last a long time. Happy travels !
I’ve found that a 3.90 gear works perfect with the 4.8
i got the minty “2wd” more like 1wd package 😂
For me it’s v6 with 1wd 😂😂😂
I got an 03 Silverado LT 4x4, 5.3L with the Z71 package and I think it was code GT4 for 3.73 gears, From what I could find online the max tow capacity is 8,800lbs Its a little bit difficult to figure out if that's accurate though, because its a fiberglass step-side truck.. I can tell you from experience I've owned C30 1 tons, and they road smoother than this Silverado does, this thing will send you through the ceiling if you hit a pot hole. So I'm not exactly sure, its stiff as hell though? like a 1 ton... I can't drink coffee safely in this thing I know that. Anyway, point is I wanna use it for towing now not sure if there is a better way to narrow down the exact weight it can tow "legally"
It will be in your user manual, these gmt800 trucks came with the ratings. (I think the fords did too). Then multiply the rating by 0.8 and that will be your safe tow rating.
My 2000 Silverado is a 2wd, RCLB, 4.8L/4L60e, without the trailer package (coil spring front, not torsion bars), and it doesn’t have a trailer brake controller or weight distributing hitch.
I towed my 68 Camino (Iron 454) on a heavy 18ft trailer (usually haul my 6500 lb tractor with a different truck). The Camino and trailer combined probably weighed about 6000 lbs. The trailer has heavy duty ramps mounted on the rear, forcing me to move the Camino forward more than I wanted; putting a lot of weight on the nose of the trailer. The rear of the truck sagged significantly.
I hauled it to a shop about 20 miles each way with some hills. I kept the trans out of overdrive, which wasn’t a problem doing 55-60mph with the tach at around 2700 rpm (avoided OD because of past failures with a different 4L60e).
If I was able to balance the load better on the trailer, the suspension would t have sagged as much and would have made the trip better. My biggest concern was hurting the trans, leading me to slowly roll into the throttle from stops and with each gear change.
Power wise, the 4.8 won’t set any records, but it can pull decently despite its small size. The biggest thing is that it likes/needs to rev. Peak torque is above 4K rpm. The wide gear ratios of the 4L60 don’t help, nor does trying to be gentle on shifts.
The narrower gearing and durability of the 4L80 would have made applying the power of the 4.8 better; allowing it to stay in the meat of the powerband with shifts and piece of mind that the trans wouldn’t grenade by staying on the throttle between shifts.
TL;DR:
Despite not being set up for towing heavy, my 4.8 RCLB handled a nose heavy trailer fairly well; but it’s not something I’d want to do regularly because of premature wear.
I've noticed towing in 3rd it's a beast, I'd it searches for gear to much
Great video. Keep making them mud n beer! Cute dog
Paige Ambrose shut up
Keep the faith !!!
Could a 4.8 tow an enclosed trailer with a car in it , do you think with upgraded gears , tow bar and suspension and brakes ?
I don't know, if it's a one time deal and you're not going too far it can be done. I think about the transmission. If it's a half ton truck with the 4l60e, I would reconsider the idea.
I’m looking into buying a 4x4 RCSB 6.0 truck. You think it’ll do good pulling my 7x14 enclosed trailer?? With 2000lbs in the trailer?
The towing capacity of a pickup is not rated based off of the engine.
Yes, and no.
Example- I have a 2019 Tacoma 4 cylinder 4x4. It’s advertised to tow 3500 pounds. The V6 version is rated at 6500. They’re both the same trucks. Transmissions, suspension, breaks, etc. the limiting factor of mine is the hp/ ft lb torque. Mine ‘could’ do 6500, but you risk damage to the engine/you cannot get safely up to speed.
Load it correctly and no problem, you can't haul/tow anything with a ram 1500 without it having a problem.
Hey man, quick question. I have a 2010 4.8L. I recently replaced my 3.42's with 4.10's. With towing now, do you recommend leaving it in 3 or D, or both while towing?
I’d recommend taking it out of overdrive.
@@Outdoors-ty8hphow high are your RPM’s when you tow out of overdrive (in 3)? I heard the truck likes to rev high
Hey man I have a question. So I have a 2005 silverado 5.3 and it feels weak pulling a dual axel trailer with a big zero turn on it. Any ideas you have for me to make it stronger?
Did you try tow haul mode?
Put a transcooler on it
@@danyaelturner414 yes but I mean like overall takeoff. I know it’s some weight but I don’t think my truck should feel so weak pulling something light if that makes sense
@@machoman616 yeah you might have a different issue, i can tow my 2 ton camper fine, granted its slow at first but it still picks up pretty well, and thats me with a 4.8v8 with some minor upgrades to it
Got a 2001 chev it can tow a lot of stuff
That ford though! Nice
Did you tow in 2wd? Or 4wd?
Shoot I pulled my 7000 pound pressure washing trailer with my 4.3 Jimmy sags so bad that the tires rub on bumps and no brakes had to pull it for about 200 miles my work truck was totaled so I had to use my spare vehicle just for about a week
Gotta do what ya gotta do sometimes brudda
When you towed was you in drive or a lower gear
I had it in tow / haul mode
The black truck you towed, isn't 5000lbs
How much does it weigh
Im watching this video because im going to tow my buddies car which is about 3k pounds. I have a 5k towing capacity trailer package i should be good right? Its about a 250 mile trip.
Depends on weight of trailer. Just make sure hitch receiver and bolts are in good shape and not rusted out.
Do you think towing 3000 pounds atleast 5 days out of the week would be bad? Thank you for your time!
Totally fine
1776 Outdoors great thank you!
Ive pulled a 69 c30 dually on a car hauler with a 3500lb axles in a 07 classic with a 4.3 and a 5 speed no problem 😂😂
4.8 is ok around Florida pulling 2axle trailer 6000lbs?
Albo US it is for me .
@@Outdoors-ty8hp thank you
I got a 2004 v8 Mercury can I leave it in drive when I tow
It’s best to just turn overdrive off or put it in tow haul mode. But If it’s a light load I wouldn’t worry about changing into a different mode/gear.
1776 Outdoors all I got is a o/d off button I don’t got a tow haul mode button so towing a 6by12 trailer loaded with furniture I should just leave it in drive?
Mike Brown I think you’ll be fine leaving it in drive or turning OD off . Won’t hurt either way. 6x12 trailer with some furniture is a pretty light load In my opinion. But like I said , won’t hurt either way.
1776 Outdoors thanks what drop will I need like a 2inch?
What hitch was this
Anyone know the towing capacity of an 01 Silverado 1500 4.8 liter vortec? thx
Would it be the same as a 1999 Silverado?
@@Professional_ProCraftinator yes
Hi. I'm looking at a 2012 Silverado 1500 single cab short box 4×4. It has the 4.8. I'm considering buying to tow a 3000lb boat. The boat fully fueled with trailer is just around 3000 if not under. Trip drive times are around 1 to 2 hours. Do you think I would be okay to purchase. Its about impossible in ohio to find a regular cab short box Silverado for some reason. Truck has 70k rust free and they want 15k for it.
Its fine, it has the gen 4 intake too.
Did you end up buying it? And if so, how does it tow?
Man there is alot of neighborhoods in this video and also a 5000 pound neighborhood
I don’t get it börther ¿
Sweet license plate
Wonder if a 5.7 tbi can pull another 1500 Silverado?
King Conker power ratings between the 4.8 and 5.7 tbi are similar. Has a lot of factors involved. Flat terrain ? Hilly terrain ? Size of trailer ? Condition of rear suspension of the pulling truck, brakes (you need a brake controller for long distance/ heavily populated roads) . Overall shouldn’t be a problem. I towed that Tahoe 250 some miles and was fine . Make sure the trailer your hooking up to is level with the truck. Inspect brakes and brake lines and fluid level. You’ll be ok
Yes been there done that don’t be half bad
the vortec 350 has plenty of power to tow uphill, however, the 4l60e transmission is its achilles heel. check your oil often as well because intake manifold gasket failure might happen at the 150k to 175k mile mark
Do you think I can tow 2 64 impala with my 2004 Ford expedition 4.6
2 at the same time ? I wouldn’t . Not for any long distances. One impala will be just fine though .
How steep where the hills
I’d say 10-25 degree inclines . Give or take a few degrees
Hey you really seem to know a lot about trucks, how much do you think I could sell my 95 F150 XL, single cab short bed for. Bought her for $1,400, she has a knock in the engine, struggles really bad to shift gears and the engine doesn’t have long to live. Thank you!
If it’s a 2wd , not much. If 4x4 and it’s not ate up with rust u could probably get your money back out of it !
1776 Outdoors it’s a 2Wd, it has like 2 small dents but the paint is had absolutely no rust, I’m letting her go for $700 that sounds pretty fsir to me! Thank you so much!
Im trying to sell my Toyota (V6) and looking at a 03 Silverado 1500 4,8. Don’t do a lot of towing really but when I do it will get the job done. This one has 1802k, 4wd ext cab and my
First chevy
Dragunov302 their great trucks man. Just make sure it’s not a rust bucket
I need opinions I have a 03 1500 extended 2wd 5.3 and i wana tow an exact same truck. And i need to tow it 359 mils is it to much for the truck to handle
I did it with a 4.8. You’re going to need a brake controller , and make sure the trailer is loaded correctly, don’t have the tongue of the trailer to high or low. Have it even and straight as possible. You should be fine
Hey thanks man i appreciate it
Transmission and rear end will be toast. You could pull a mobile home with a Buick but i wouldn't recommend it. Anybody with any common sense knows a half ton is a car with a pickup bed
Can a 2007 1500 chevy 5.3 tow a trailer with a lawnmower on it?
Probably not
1776 Outdoors so i would need a 2500? , even tho its just a riding lawnmower lol?
You'll need a duramax for that
@@geraldgutierrez1780 he'd be better off going down to his local Kenworth dealer
@Tanner69046 lol
Damn ford
F150 looking real nice in the background