What is your tow vehicle, and the amount of weight it will tow? Is it already equipped with a brake controller for a trailer?
You see, that's why I asked - the max tow rating on the 4WD Suburban 6.0l is 7,500lbs with 3.73 gears, and 9,500lbs with 4.10's. The 2WD version adds just 300lbs capacity to make that 7,800lbs and 9,800lbs. Nor can you do a gooseneck hitch with an SUV, instead you will have to use a weight-distributing hitch and sway control. Not to mention, the wheelbase is relatively short compared to a fullsize truck.Beau Bo said:I'm hauling with a 2500 Suburban 6.0l, so trailer weight shouldn't be that much of an issue. Thanks for the in-depth responses, this really helps a lot.
16 vs 18 - on a 16 is there still room to mount a box up front to store some spare parts, tie downs, etc.?
Is there much difference in maneuverability between a 16 and 18?
KaiserJeep said:You see, that's why I asked - the max tow rating on the 4WD Suburban 6.0l is 7,500lbs with 3.73 gears, and 9,500lbs with 4.10's. The 2WD version adds just 300lbs capacity to make that 7,800lbs and 9,800lbs. Nor can you do a gooseneck hitch with an SUV, instead you will have to use a weight-distributing hitch and sway control. Not to mention, the wheelbase is relatively short compared to a fullsize truck.Beau Bo said:I'm hauling with a 2500 Suburban 6.0l, so trailer weight shouldn't be that much of an issue. Thanks for the in-depth responses, this really helps a lot.
16 vs 18 - on a 16 is there still room to mount a box up front to store some spare parts, tie downs, etc.?
Is there much difference in maneuverability between a 16 and 18?
I'm gonna say spend the bucks for the aluminum trailer, definately get the 16' version, spend the money on a good proportional brake controller and brakes for both axles, and be carefull. Put as much weight as possible in the rear cargo space of the Suburban, and lighten up the trailer load where possible (assuming you are not using the 3rd seat). But make sure anything you are carrying in the rear of the Suburban is properly restrained.
Beau Bo said:You see, that's why I asked - the max tow rating on the 4WD Suburban 6.0l is 7,500lbs with 3.73 gears, and 9,500lbs with 4.10's. The 2WD version adds just 300lbs capacity to make that 7,800lbs and 9,800lbs. Nor can you do a gooseneck hitch with an SUV, instead you will have to use a weight-distributing hitch and sway control. Not to mention, the wheelbase is relatively short compared to a fullsize truck.KaiserJeep said:[quote="Beau Bo":kc80oqrn]I'm hauling with a 2500 Suburban 6.0l, so trailer weight shouldn't be that much of an issue. Thanks for the in-depth responses, this really helps a lot.
16 vs 18 - on a 16 is there still room to mount a box up front to store some spare parts, tie downs, etc.?
Is there much difference in maneuverability between a 16 and 18?
I'm gonna say spend the bucks for the aluminum trailer, definately get the 16' version, spend the money on a good proportional brake controller and brakes for both axles, and be carefull. Put as much weight as possible in the rear cargo space of the Suburban, and lighten up the trailer load where possible (assuming you are not using the 3rd seat). But make sure anything you are carrying in the rear of the Suburban is properly restrained.
Well, I can only speculate - if somebody has more direct knowledge of Chevy Suburban mechanicals, please speak up.Beau Bo said:Help me understand the tow ratings. For example, for the 02 3/4 ton Suburban, the tow ratings range from 7500 to 12000 depending on the engine/gearing. If the engine/gearing are the only variables it seems that the tow rating difference is based soley on the ability to pull. The basic ability of the 3/4 vehicle to control and stop a load shouldn't be significantly different regardless of which engine/gearing is used, right? There may be some difference due to the weight of the engine but the rest of the vehicle - wheelbase, brakes - wouldn't change.
If this is true I don't feel as concerned by having the tow vehicle/trailer close or even at the 7500lb range. If the basic vehicle is capable of controlling and stopping up to 12000 lbs it shouldn't be a safety issue at 7500, the only thing I would notice is the ability to pull up hills.
With my rig at about 4500 - 4700 loaded, without people I should be able to look for a max 2800 trailer and still be within the limits. It might be a bit sluggish going up hills but from a safety factor it shouldn't be an issue if the 3/4 ton Surbaban can control and stop a 12000 load.
Am I looking at this right or am I missing something?