95TD 2500 suburban, no power when towing!

[Eddy1]

If I tow only 3000 lbs my truck has a hard time making it up even semi steep hills, how do I go about trouble shooting this?

[gmtech1]

How many miles? It may be a case of the engine getting tired, lower compression, worn cam lobes, ect...

[Eddy1]

It has 180k on it, it does not blow any smoke or use any oil. And it still sounds good.
Is there an easy way to check fuel pump pressure and injectors? maybe turbo pressure also.
I don't know for sure but I think it will be something simple.

[gmtech1]

The 6.5 is a finiky beast. There are proceedures and test for the turbo boost pressure, fuel pump (only 4psi minimum, but all is does is feed the injection pump, thats where the real pressure builds up). Also tests for the the injectors. All of these require special tools and a fair amount of caution to preform. I would suggest finding a desiel shop in your area for a proper and accurate diagnosis.

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by Eddy1

If I tow only 3000 lbs my truck has a hard time making it up even semi steep hills, how do I go about trouble shooting this?

first would be the air filter and replace the fuel filter[s].

then the injectors for proper operation along with the compression.

could be injector issues.

check the trailer you tow for brake/wheel bearing issues.

[Eddy1]

I have done the air filter, I will change fuel filters also. I have towed three different trailers ranging from 2500 to around 5500, same results on all three. How many miles can I expect to get out of this truck if well maintained?
I will have to try to find a good diesel shop to have it checked out, everyone around here seems to be such scammers

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by Eddy1

I have done the air filter, I will change fuel filters also. I have towed three different trailers ranging from 2500 to around 5500, same results on all three. How many miles can I expect to get out of this truck if well maintained?
I will have to try to find a good diesel shop to have it checked out, everyone around here seems to be such scammers

restricted exhaust is another cause of this .
Check the vacuum pump for proper operation as this if not creating a good vacuum will cause a loss of boost.
towing 5,ooolbs is not that much.

my 5.3L gas tows 4300LBS boat no problem.

I do use 3rd gear [never OD ] when towing .

[Eddy1]

what could cause a restricted exhaust ?
I do live in a bad neighborhood I will have to look into the tail pipe.

[Eddy1]

How do I check the vacuum pump?