Towing Capacity 2
Asked by b2breese Jan 15, 2011 at 08:22 AM about the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 2LT 4WD
Question type: General
I am considering buying a 2009 LT2 1500 4WD with 3.42 differential and a "Z82" HD Towing Package. I have the build sheet and know that it does not have the K5L Tow package. The question is.... how much will this vehicle pull? According to GM it is "up to 7900 # when properly equiped". Is this one properly equipped? Does it need k5L? Can K5L be added after-market and for how much? Please help as GM's support is horrible at answering this type of question
3 Answers
if u not getting your answers from GM then try consulting a reliable dealer.
The maximum towing is with the 3.73 axle. You should have no problems towing 8,000 lbs, just use a lower gear like 5th on the interstate instead of 6th. Realistically, those towing figures are just suggestions that are based on braking power more than anything, if you plan on towing more than 8,000 lbs. often, you should get a 3/4 ton burb. It's not easy to swap aftermarket. You need new ring gears front and rear and need the vss recalibrated to the new ratio. If you're pulling less than 8k, I wouldn't worry about it, my 01 suburban has pulled 10K just fine.
Fordtudor37 answered 10 years ago
Is the vehicle properly equipped, NO it doesn't have the K5L package. As "Eric" stated you should make sure you have the "tow mode" enabled or disabled, so that the truck does not shift into overdrive. In order to be "K5L like", you will need to install a external transmission cooler (in front of the radiator), a larger alternator, second battery or larger primary battery, the wiring harness for electric brakes with controller and ditch the "thermo spring" actuated cooling fan for a solid mechanical fan that pulls air thru the radiator all the time. And if you really want to pull off the "K5L" change the rear leaf springs for stronger units.
