New 2012 Tahoe

[Elwin]

Hey Guys,

I just bought a 2012 Tahoe and didn't pay attention to the gear ratios. I don't tow much but I do have an RV I tow every now and then. I know by changing the gears my towing capabilities go from 5500 lbs to 8200 lbs. I believe by doing the gear swap my Tahoe won't work so hard when I do tow my RV. The stock gears are 3.08's and I was wondering if changing them to 3.42's would be the smart thing to do. Plus, by towing without a transmission cooler would it hurt the transmission? Would it be difficult to install a transmission cooler? I most likely will have the dealership install the gears and reprogram the computer to make sure the warranty stays intact.

I know I made a boneheaded move, but I overlooked it.

Thanks for the advice!

Elwin

 

[Ned's LTZ]

If you change the ratio to 3.42, and add a trans cooler, you will still be missing the engine oil cooler for the HD tow package. You should probably check with your dealer on the coolers, and warranty compatibility if installed elseware. regearing is expensive, so unless you have to do it, I would try and live with it...your call. How heavy is your RV?

 

[RFoster130]

I recently bought a 2012 and opted for the heavy duty tow package. It comes with the 3.42 gears. With the 6 speeds transmission, it tows great, I used it to tow our boat this past weekend and it performed great. Ned was correct, the tow package added the gears, and both oil and trans oil coolers. I would add an external trans cooler for sure. High heat is wht kills transmissions and 8000 lbs is a lot without it.

I know it's kinda late now, but the tow package is well worth the $330 option. To have a shop do it all, I bet you are looking at over $1000.