Towing with a 1500

[someday31]

I am going to be towing a minivan, Toyota sienna on a uhaul trailer, all 4 wheels will be on the trailer. I will be towing about 200miles roundtrip, about 4hrs total. I have a 1500 5.3 2003 silverado....what should I tow in.... 2wd, auto??? Drive or overdrive? Should I use that tow haul mode button on the wiper arm? Any tips for not wearing on my truck too much?

[kahjdh]

Generally i try to stay in 3rd with the tow/haul on. I towed a verneer (sp?) chipper on the hitch, a john deere 110 with attachments and a dirtbike in the bed with my 01 with surprisingly little effort. Just be sure to keep distances and if it is hilly terrian you will prob need a trailer with brakes. There are people who tow on a regular basis on here so just wait until they chime in.

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by someday31

I am going to be towing a minivan, Toyota sienna on a uhaul trailer, all 4 wheels will be on the trailer. I will be towing about 200miles roundtrip, about 4hrs total. I have a 1500 5.3 2003 silverado....what should I tow in.... 2wd, auto??? Drive or overdrive? Should I use that tow haul mode button on the wiper arm? Any tips for not wearing on my truck too much?

I have a 4000lb boat with surge brakes . when towing that load , the braking is no problem . the pulling is in tow mode, 3rd gear and speed is kept below 70MPH. 65 MPH is what I do. gradually increase and decrease speed.

I have loaded the bed with a good amount of weight around 1200lbs or so. this is when the braking is an issue. the heavier load with just the vehicle brakes you must keep a longer distance , and also brake with caution , so as to not over heat the brakes. so prepare ahead of time when slowing down is to occur.


only 2wd ...any 4wd is for wet /snow pavement or off road no pavement.this vehicle has only part time 4wd in any 4wd position.

when towing make sure the engine oil is at the full mark. recheck oil when refilling the fuel tank. oil consumption can increase when towing long distances. make sure the tires , ALL have the correct pressures.low tire pressures will cost you on fuel. I use 89 octane when towing the boat. this should reduce the possibility of knock code from coming on.

I always run with 87 octane with normal use.

you should be good towing with that amount of load, just take your time.