Towing with a 4.8l

[rpeter46]

I have an 03 Tahoe with the 4.8l motor. I have a camper and a boat that both weigh about 5500lbs. The boat gets towed 15 miles 2x a year, but the 30'camper gets pulled 2x a summer across the state (450 miles total) on fairly flat terrain.
I'm concerned about the drivetrain-I understand how all the mechanical works, but am looking for some experiences(hard-earned and expensive). On the same note, what can I do to improve my rig to make towing better? I'm willing to tow slowly on the highway-I just need to understand where I need to be.

Thanks- Paul

 

[MO Viet Vet]

What is your gear ratio? The towing can be easy on the 4.8 engine if is mostly flat. The hills is where the drivetrain works harder. Make sure the trans cooler is clean and maybe even add an external trans cooler. If pulling a hill make sure you down shift and accel just enough to get up the hill without over revving the engine.

 

[rpeter46]

I don't know. Is that something I can read from a VIN?

 

[rpeter46]

On that note, would I even dare to use OD while I'm in tow mode? Or is that simply a "don't chance it" kind of deal?

 

[MO Viet Vet]

Check your RPO codes on the inside cover of glove compartment and look for the "G" codes and get back.


I think it will go like this:

G44 3.07 Ratios
G75 3.62 "
G94 3.31 "
G96 3.55 "
G97 2.73 "

 

[rpeter46]

I checked my glove box, and it appears to be G65.
VIN is 1GNEK13V33J292133

 

[rpeter46]

maybe I should give you all the G codes all together from the glove box. GAM GT5 G65

 

[MO Viet Vet]

Ok, the GT5 is a 4.10 ratio and that will be ok with the towing you talk about. The lighter the weight behind you the better and the flatter the road the better. The additional trans cooler is likely a good thing to do. Make sure you use good quality oil and filter for the engine. Never tow in OD. Never!

 

[rpeter46]

OK, thanks. I've already got an Injen cold air intake kit. What can I do to coax a few more horsies from the motor.
In addition, what RPM will the truck like to be at while I'm towing (without OD) down the expressway?

 

[MO Viet Vet]

The rpm will be ok at regular highway speed just a little bit less fuel mileage because not in OD. If your engine and trans are up to date as far as oil, filter and trans cooling you should be ok. As far as getting more power, others will have to kick in with opinions. I like my stuff stock. Less stress on what I am driving. My younger days of rip snorting power are over and I would be a bad source for that kind of info.