Venture Towing capacity.

[ypelchat]

Hi guys!

I just bought a 17' Bigfoot travel trailer, and i was wondering how many of you, on this forum, is pulling a trailer with a Venture? The Bigfoot will weigh close to 3500 lbs, fully loaded.

What did you add to your Venture to be able to pull your trailer?

I've seen a nice 1999 GMC Safari SLE AWD, in my neighborhood, and I think it could be a better tow vehicle than the Venture, and if the price is right, I may end up buying it (don't worry, i'm keeping the Venture ). The Safari has a 4.3L V6 engine, and is built on a truck frame, which must be ideal to install a class 3 WDH hitch IMHO.

So, what da ya think?

Yves.

[cdru]

From what others have said, I would be hesitant towing such a large trailer with the venture. The U-body vans don't have a strong transmission to begin with, and dragging 3500 lbs isn't going to help it any.

At a minimum, you are going to need a larger oil cooler and probably upgrade your rear suspension for the extra weight.

And I agree that the Safari would likely make a better towing vehicle between the two vans.

[ypelchat]

Originally Posted by cdru

From what others have said, I would be hesitant towing such a large trailer with the venture. The U-body vans don't have a strong transmission to begin with, and dragging 3500 lbs isn't going to help it any.

At a minimum, you are going to need a larger oil cooler and probably upgrade your rear suspension for the extra weight.

And I agree that the Safari would likely make a better towing vehicle between the two vans.

Thanks cdru! I made an offer on the Safari, and it's been accepted. So, you're likely to see me posting on the Safari forum too.

Yves.