Towing Capacity of 2001 Chevy Silverado for Towing 9000lb Travel Trailer

Published 12/18/2014

Question:

I have a 2001 Chevrolet 1500 Silverado with tow package. Can it pull a 34 foot Avion with a weight of 9000 lbs?

asked by: Jerry A

Expert Reply:

Finding the actual towing capacity of a truck sight unseen can be difficult. The towing capacity can vary wildly from model to model. The engine size, transmission and gear ratio of the rear end will all have an influence on the towing capacity of the vehicle.

The most definitive way of determining the towing capacity of your truck would be to check the identification plate installed in the door jamb of the driver's door. The plate will list the GCWR, or Gross Combined Weight Rating, which represents the maximum allowable weight of the trailer and the vehicle combined. If you subtract the fully loaded weight of your vehicle from the GCWR, the result will be the maximum trailer weight you can tow. To determine your vehicle weight, you can put your vehicle on the truck scale at your local truck stop or material supply store.

expert reply by: Mike L