2016 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 Towing Capacity and Transmission Cooler  

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Lots of factors go into determining a vehicles towing capacity. Truck manufacturers will often calculate and advertise their truck’s payload and towing capacities. The main features for the tow package in the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado's is a locking differential and an upgraded transmission with a tow haul mode. These were options with the V6 models and the diesel models. If your 2016 Colorado didn't come with these features then there is no way you can safely haul a heavier trailer without damaging your vehicle or the trailer. It sounds like your Colorado came with the trailer package which included the receiver and wiring harness. The towing package was a separate option when the truck was first purchased.

While the Chevrolet Colorado has a maximum towing capacity range of 3,000lbs-7,700lbs the highest end of that range is the Colorado 2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel 4-Cylinder engine. Your truck's model year has 2 packages with the 3.6 V6 engine. The 3.6L V-6 LFX has a 3500 lbs max towing capacity and the 3.6L V-6 LFX with Z82 package has a 7000 lbs maximum towing capacity. These numbers are calculated with a completely empty cab and bed minus the driver. This is possibly the reason for the 500 lbs discrepancy from what the dealer told you.

A transmission cooler will help keep your transmission cooler but it will not do anything to increase your towing capacity. The Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit item # D13503 is a confirmed fit for your V6 Colorado. This cooler is an efficient heat exchanger that will prolong the life of your transmission and improve its overall performance. Included is the complete mounting kit, OEM spec hose with stainless steel clamps and Insta-dapt radiator adapter. I have attached a picture that shows this cooler mounted on a Chevy Colorado and an installation video.

expert reply by: Jerred H

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2016 Colorado Radiator Cooler
(click to enlarge)