Recommended Weight Distribution System For 1997 Chevrolet Suburban 2500 w/ 10,000 lb Towing Capacity
Published 12/16/2016
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Question:
I have a 1997 4x4 K2500 Suburban with a 7.3L V-8. I also have a new 12,000 Lb. equipment trailer. My Suburban has an original factory hitch kit with a 10,000 LB. hitch weight rating decal. I note that you sell a 10,000 LB hitch kit for this vehicle, but you also sell a 12,000 hitch kit for use on this same vehicle, using a weight distribution hitch. Is it satisfactory legal? for me to pull my 12,000 Lb. trailer. with my K2500 vehicle, using your 12,000 Lb. hitch and the 14,000 Lb. Equal-i-zer system? I have been told, by several sources, that a total trailer load greater than 10,000 Lbs. is NOT ACCEPTABLE for my vehicle! Please advise
asked by: George H
Expert Reply:
Your 1997 Suburban K2500 4x4 has a 10000 lbs max trailer weight according to your owner's manual, so you cannot pull a 12,000 lb fully loaded trailer. You can pull the 12,000 lb capacity trailer at a maximum load of 10,000 lbs. There are hitches that are available as you stated that rated higher than your vehicle capacity. Unfortunately that only means that the trailer hitch receiver can handle that weight, not that your vehicle's transmission, engine, and suspension can handle that weight. Your towing capacity will still be 10,000 lbs. I do have some suggestions to help.
I still recommend the weight distribution system if you will be hauling anything close to your max weight of 10,000 lbs. This even distribution of weight results in a smooth, level ride, as well as the ability to tow at the maximum capacity of your hitch. Using a system will help your hitch and will allow your vehicle to tow better not putting as much strain on your transmission, engine, or suspension.
Weight distribution systems are based on total tongue weight which means the trailer tongue weight and any cargo weight behind the rear axle of your Suburban. You want this total tongue weight to be right in the middle of the tongue weight capacity of your weight distribution system. I've attached an article on determining your trailer tongue weight to help. Normally it is between 10-15% of the Gross Trailer weight and you will want to determine this when fully loaded.
For a weight distribution system for your 10,000 lb trailer capacity, I recommend the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 17,000 lbs GTW, 1,700 lbs TW, # RP66075. This system is rated for a tongue weight between 1,000 and 1,700 lbs so it will cover the 10-15% of your 10000 lb capacity and allow for cargo in behind the rear axle of your vehicle. This system will also drastically help with sway control of your trailer as you travel with your loaded or unloaded trailer. The dual cam straight line system is the best for this functionality. I've included a video to help.
To help your transmission, you may want to consider a transmission cooler like 1997 Chevrolet Suburban Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class IV - Efficient, # D13504. This will allow your transmission to operate cooler and extend its life. To install this, you will want the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for GM, # D13018
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