I am planning a trip up to Moab in a few weeks and need to get two trucks up there. My usual tow rig (Chevy 3500 HD) will be pulling a Mog, and I need input on pulling with my daily driver GMC 1500 (4.8/Auto/Short bed). My trail rig and trailer (2 axle(one braked) 18" utility trailer) together weigh about 7000 lbs, which I think is within the "limits" of the truck. I am not worried about power (as this will be a leisurely trip up there), and know better than to pull in overdrive.

I know people have pulled with this combo, but I need some input on stuff like airbags, and weight distribution hitches and such. What do you guys think? I used to pull with 2000 Tahoe with the "adjusting" rear suspension, and it was VERY tempermental about where the rig was on the trailer.

BTW, I already searched so :flipoff2:

Billster

This response is a little late, but I tow quite a bit with my 1500. You can see my specs in the sig, but I don't use sway control, weight distribution hitches or any thing else and it works ok. However that 7Klbs is quite a bit heavier than my 5600 to 6000 lbs I usually haul. Here's a couple of my complaints:

The suspension (I have the tow package with gas shocks) seems to be adequate, though a little bouncy. Your right, vehicle placement on the trailer makes a world of difference.

The steering ratio is WAY too tight for highway towing. My trailer is 102" wide at the widest points and it's hard to keep it in the lane without over steering.

I'd recommend installing a HD auxillary tranny cooler, and if possible try to pull that load around home a couple weeks before your trip. You may decide you need that weight distribution hitch and/or air bags. I don't use either on my truck, and I feel the weight I pull is about it's max for the stock suspension. Oh yeah, and you're going to have to rev the hell out of that 4.8 on steep grades.