2002 GMC Sierra Owners Manual

Here are some tips for winter driving: D Have your vehicle in good shape for winter. D You may want to put winter emergency supplies in

your vehicle.

Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle.

Winter Driving

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Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need to be very careful.

What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all. You can get wet ice when it’s about freezing (32_F; 0_C) and freezing rain begins to fall. Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews can get there. Whatever the condition -- smooth ice, packed, blowing or loose snow -- drive with caution. Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more. If you have traction assist, keep the system on. It will improve your ability to accelerate when driving on a slippery road. But you can turn the traction system off if you ever need to. You should turn the system off if your vehicle ever gets stuck in sand, mud, ice or snow. See “Rocking Your Vehicle” in the Index. Even though your vehicle has a traction system, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to the road conditions. See “Traction Assist System” in the Index.

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If you don’t have a traction system, accelerate gently. Try not to break the gentle traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more. Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have an anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-Lock” in the Index. D Allow greater following distance on any

slippery road.

D Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that’s covered with ice. On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear in shaded areas where the sun can’t reach: around clumps of trees, behind buildings or under bridges. Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass may remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not to brake while you’re actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers.

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If You’re Caught in a Blizzard

If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: D Turn on your hazard flashers.

D Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that

you’ve been stopped by the snow.

D Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats -- anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm.

You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.

CAUTION:

Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You can’t see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow doesn’t collect there. Open a window just a little on the side of the vehicle that’s away from the wind. This will help keep CO out.

Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with your headlamps. Let the heater run for a while.

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Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes. Recreational Vehicle Towing Recreational vehicle towing means towing your vehicle behind another vehicle -- such as behind a motorhome. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as “dinghy towing” (towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground) and “dolly towing” (towing your vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a “dolly”). With the proper preparation and equipment, many vehicles can be towed in these ways. See “Dinghy Towing” and “Dolly Towing,” following.

Here are some important things to consider before you do recreational vehicle towing: D What’s the towing capacity of the towing vehicle?

Be sure you read the tow vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

D How far will you tow? Some vehicles have

restrictions on how far and how long they can tow.

D Do you have the proper towing equipment? See your dealer or trailering professional for additional advice and equipment recommendations.

D Is your vehicle ready to be towed? Just as you would

prepare your vehicle for a long trip, you’ll want to make sure your vehicle is prepared to be towed. See “Before Leaving on a Long Trip” in the Index.

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Dinghy Towing When towing your vehicle, turn the ignition off. To prevent your battery from draining while towing, remove the IGN 0 fuse from the instrument panel fuse block. Be sure to reinstall the fuse when you reach your destination. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Two-wheel-drive vehicles, should not be towed with all four wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive transmissions have no provisions for internal lubrication while being towed. To properly tow these vehicles, they should be placed on a platform trailer with all four wheels off the ground.

In rare cases when it’s unavoidable that a two-wheel-drive vehicle is to be towed with all four wheels on the ground, the propeller shaft to axle yoke orientation should be marked and the propeller shaft removed following the applicable service manual removal/installation procedure. Dust or dirt can enter the back of the transmission through the opening created by removing the propeller shaft if proper protection is not provided. Also, check the transmission fluid level before driving the truck.

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4. Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.

See “Four-Wheel Drive” in the Index for the proper procedure to select the neutral position for your vehicle.

5. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle

being towed is firmly attached to the towing vehicle.

6. Turn the ignition off.

CAUTION:

Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in Park (P), for an automatic transmission, or if your vehicle is in gear, for a manual transmission. You or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is firmly set before you shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.

Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles

Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle: 1. Firmly set the parking brake. 2. Shift an automatic transmission to PARK (P), or a

manual transmission to FIRST (1).

3. Securely attach the vehicle being towed to the

tow vehicle.

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Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Four-wheel-drive vehicles are not designed to be dolly towed. If you need to tow a four-wheel-drive vehicle see “Dinghy Towing” earlier in this section.

NOTICE:

Dolly towing a four-wheel-drive vehicle will damage drivetrain components. Don’t dolly tow a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Dolly Towing (Two-Wheel Drive Vehicles) Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Two-wheel-drive vehicles, should not be towed with the rear wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive transmissions have no provisions for internal lubrication while being towed. To properly tow these vehicles, they should be placed on a platform trailer with all four wheels off the ground. In rare cases when it’s unavoidable that a two-wheel-drive vehicle is to be towed with the rear wheels on the ground, the propeller shaft to axle yoke orientation should be marked and the propeller shaft removed following the applicable service manual removal/installation procedure. Dust or dirt can enter the back of the transmission through the opening created by removing the propeller shaft if proper protection is not provided. Also, check the transmission fluid level before driving the truck. When the vehicle is properly attached to the tow vehicle and is ready to be towed, turn the ignition to LOCK. Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position with a clamping device designed for towing.

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Loading Your Vehicle

The Certification/Tire label is found on the rear edge of the driver’s door or in the Incomplete Vehicle Document in the cab. The label shows the size of your original tires and the inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of your vehicle. This is called the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo.

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The Certification/Tire label also tells you the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. Be sure to spread out your load equally on both sides of the centerline. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GAWR for either the front or rear axle. The Certification/Tire label also contains information about your Front Axle Reserve Capacity. See “Front Axle Reserve Capacity” later in this section. And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out.

CAUTION:

In the case of a sudden stop or collision, things carried in the bed of your truck could shift forward and come into the passenger area, injuring you and others. If you put things in the bed of your truck, you should make sure they are properly secured.

CAUTION:

Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.

NOTICE:

Your warranty does not cover parts or components that fail because of overloading.

This will help you decide how much cargo and installed equipment your truck can carry. Using heavier suspension components to get added durability might not change your weight ratings. Ask your dealer to help you load your vehicle the right way.

If you put things inside your vehicle -- like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else -- they go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they’ll keep going.

CAUTION:

Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. D Put things in the cargo area of your vehicle.

Try to spread the weight evenly.

D Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats.

D Don’t leave an unsecured child restraint in

your vehicle.

D When you carry something inside the

vehicle, secure it whenever you can.

D Don’t leave a seat folded down unless you

need to.

There’s also important loading information for off-road driving in this manual. See “Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving” in the Index.

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Payload The payload capacity is shown on the Certification/Tire label. This is the maximum load capacity that your vehicle can carry. Be sure to include the weight of the occupants as part of your load. If you added any accessories or equipment after your vehicle left the factory, remember to subtract the weight of these things from the payload. Your dealer can help you with this. Remember not to exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of the front or rear axle. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index.

2-Tiered Loading By positioning four 2″ x 6″ wooden planks across the width of the pickup box, you can create an upper load platform. The planks must be inserted in the pickup box depressions. The length of the planks must allow for at least a 3/4 inch (2 cm) bearing surface on each end of the plank. When using this upper load platform, be sure the load is securely tied down to prevent it from shifting. The load’s center of gravity should be positioned in a zone over the rear axle. The zone is located in the area between the front of each wheel well and the rear of each wheel well. The center of gravity height must not extend above the top of the pickup box flareboard. Any load that extends beyond the vehicle’s taillamp area must be properly marked according to local laws and regulations. Remember not to exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of the front or rear axle. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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Add-On Equipment When you carry removable items, you may need to put a limit on how many people you carry inside your vehicle. Be sure to weigh your vehicle before you buy and install the new equipment.

Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment Before installing a snow plow on your vehicle, here are some things you’ll need to know:

NOTICE:

Your warranty doesn’t cover parts or components that fail because of overloading.

Remember not to exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of the front or rear axle. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index. *Equipment Ladder Rack and Cargo Cross Toolbox and Cargo Side Boxes and Cargo

Maximum Weight 750 lbs. (340 kg) 400 lbs. (181 kg)

250 lbs. per side (113 kg per side) * The combined weight for all rail-mounted equipment should not exceed 1,000 lbs. (454 kg). A reinforcement kit for rail-mounted add-on equipment is recommended. See your dealer.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . .

NOTICE:

If your vehicle doesn’t have the snow plow prep package, adding a plow can damage your vehicle, and the repairs wouldn’t be covered by warranty. Unless your vehicle was built to carry a snow plow, don’t add one to your vehicle. If your vehicle has the snow plow option called RPO VYU (snow plow prep package), then the payload your vehicle can carry will be reduced when a snow plow is installed. Your vehicle can be damaged if either the front or rear axle ratings, or the GVW, are exceeded.

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Q: How do I know if my vehicle can handle a

snow plow?

A: Some vehicles are built with a special package, called RPO VYU (snow plow prep package). If your vehicle has this option, you can add a plow to it, provided certain weights, such as the weights on the vehicle’s axles and the GVW, aren’t exceeded.

Q: How heavy can a snow plow safely be? A: The plow your vehicle can carry depends on many

things, such as:

D The options your vehicle came with, and the weight

of those options,

D The weight and number of passengers you intend

to carry,

D The weight of items you’ve added to your vehicle,

like a tool box or truck cap,

D The total weight of any additional cargo you intend

to carry.

Say, for example, you have a 700 lb. (318 kg) snow plow. The total weight of all occupants and cargo inside the cab should not exceed 300 lb. (135 kg).

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This means that you may only be able to carry one passenger. But, even this may be too much if you’ve got other equipment already adding to the weight of your vehicle. Here are some guidelines for safely carrying a snow plow on your vehicle:

D Make sure the weight on the front and rear axles

doesn’t exceed the axle rating for each.

D For the front axle, if more cargo or passengers must

be carried, appropriate counter ballast must be installed rear of the rear axle. Counter ballast must be properly secured so it won’t move during driving.

D Follow the snow plow manufacturer’s

recommendations regarding rear ballast. Rear ballast may be required to ensure a proper front and rear weight distribution ratio, even though the actual weight at the front axle may be less than the front axle rating. D The snow plow manufacturer or installer can assist

you in determining the amount of rear ballast required, to help make sure your snowplow/vehicle combination does not exceed the GVW rating, the front and rear axle ratings, and the front and rear weight distribution ratio.

D The total vehicle must not exceed the GVW rating.

In order to calculate the amount of weight any front accessory, such as a snow plow, is adding to the front axle, use the following formula:

Q: What is front axle reserve capacity, and how do

I calculate it?

A: Front axle reserve capacity is the difference between your front GAWR and the front axle weight of your truck with full fuel and passengers. Basically, it’s the amount of weight you can add to your front axle before reaching your front GAWR.

The front axle reserve capacity for your vehicle can be found in the lower right corner of the Certification/Tire label, as shown.

United States

Canada

(W x (A + W.B))/W.B.= Weight the accessory is adding to the front axle. Where: W=Weight of added accessory A=Distance that the accessory is in front of the front axle W.B.=Vehicle Wheelbase

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For example, adding a 700 lb. (318 kg) snow plow actually adds more than 700 lb. (318 kg) to the front axle. Using the formula, if the snow plow is 4 ft. (122 cm) in front of the front axle and the wheel base is 10 ft. (305 cm), then: W=700 lb. (318 kg) A=4 ft. (122 cm) W.B.=10 ft. (305 cm) (W x (A + W.B.))/W.B.= (700 x (4 + 10))/10 = 980 lb. (445 kg) So, if your truck’s front axle reserve capacity is more than 980 lb. (445 kg), you could add this snow plow without exceeding the front GAWR.

Q: What if I want to add heavier equipment to

my vehicle?

A: You can add heavier equipment on the front of the vehicle if you compensate for it by carrying fewer passengers, less cargo, or by positioning cargo more towards the rear. This has the effect of reducing the load on the front. However, the front GAWR, rear GAWR and the GVWR must never be exceeded.

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CAUTION:

On some vehicles equipped with certain front mounted equipment, such as a snow plow, it may be possible to load the front axle to the front GAWR but not have enough weight on the rear axle to have proper braking performance. If your brakes can’t work properly, you could have a crash. To help your brakes work properly when a snow plow is installed, always follow the snow plow manufacturer or installer’s recommendation for rear ballast to ensure a proper front and rear weight distribution ratio, even though the actual front weight may be less than the front GAWR, and the total vehicle weight is less than the GVWR. Maintaining a proper front and rear weight distribution ratio is necessary to provide proper braking performance.

Q: What is total vehicle reserve capacity? A: This is the difference between your GVWR and the weight of your truck with full fuel and passengers. It’s the amount of weight you can add to your vehicle before reaching your GVWR.

Keep in mind that reserve capacity numbers are intended as a guide when selecting the amount of equipment or cargo your truck can carry. If you are unsure of your truck’s front, rear or total weight, go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can also help you with this. See your dealer for additional advice and information about using a snow plow on your vehicle. Also, see “Loading Your Vehicle” earlier in this section.

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Refer to the Truck-Camper Loading Information label in glove box for dimensions A and B as shown in the following illustration.

Use the rear edge of the load floor for measurement purposes. The recommended location for the cargo center of gravity is at point C for the CWR. It is the point where the mass of a body is concentrated and, if suspended at that point, would balance the front and rear.

Truck-Camper Loading Information This label is inside your glove box. It will tell you if your vehicle can carry a slide-in camper, how much of a load your vehicle can carry, and how to correctly spread out your load. Also, it will help you match the right slide-in camper to your vehicle. When you carry a slide-in camper, the total cargo load of your vehicle is the weight of the camper, plus D everything else added to the camper after it left

the factory,

D everything in the camper and D all the people inside. The Cargo Weight Rating (CWR) is the maximum weight of the load your vehicle can carry. It doesn’t include the weight of the people inside. But, you can figure about 150 lbs. (68 kg) for each seat. The total cargo load must not be more than your vehicle’s CWR.

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Here is an example of proper truck and camper match:

A. Camper Center of Gravity B. Recommended Center of Gravity Location Zone The camper’s center of gravity should fall within the center of gravity zone for your vehicle’s cargo load. You must weigh any accessories or other equipment that you add to your vehicle. Then, subtract this extra weight from the CWR. This extra weight may shorten the center of gravity zone of your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. If your slide-in camper and its load weighs less than the CWR, the center of gravity zone for your vehicle may be larger.

Your dealer can help you make a good vehicle-camper match. He’ll also help you determine your CWR. After you’ve loaded your vehicle and camper, drive to a weigh station and weigh the front and rear wheels separately. This will tell you the loads on your axles. The loads on the front and rear axles shouldn’t be more than either of the GAWRs. The total of the axle loads should not be more than the GVWR. Open your driver’s door and look at the Certification/Tire label to find out your GAWR and GVWR. If you’ve gone over your weight ratings, move or take out some things until all the weight falls below the ratings. Of course, you should always tie down any loose items when you load your vehicle or camper. When you install and load your slide-in camper, check the manufacturer’s instructions. If you want more information on curb weights, cargo weights, Cargo Weight Rating and the correct center of gravity zone for your vehicle, your dealer can help you. Just ask for a copy of “Consumer Information, Truck-Camper Loading.”

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Trailer Recommendations You must subtract your hitch loads from the CWR for your vehicle. Weigh your vehicle with the trailer attached, so that you won’t go over the GVWR or GAWR. If you are using a weight-distributing hitch, weigh the vehicle without the equalizer bars in place. You’ll get the best performance if you spread out the weight of your load the right way, and if you choose the correct hitch and trailer brakes. For more information, see “Trailer Towing” in the Index.

Camper Wiring Harness (If Equipped) If your vehicle is equipped with a camper wiring harness, see “Trailer Wiring Harness” in the Index for further information. Pickup Conversion to Chassis Cab General Motors is aware that some vehicle owners may consider having the pickup box removed and a commercial or recreational body installed. Before you do so, first contact GM Customer Assistance for information on such conversions specific to this vehicle. Owners should be aware that, as manufactured, there are differences between a chassis cab and a pickup with the box removed which may affect vehicle safety. The components necessary to adapt a pickup to permit its safe use with a specialized body should be installed by a body builder in accordance with the information available from GM Customer Assistance. See “Customer Assistance” in the Index.

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Towing a Trailer

CAUTION:

If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well -- or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.

NOTICE:

Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this part, and see your dealer for important information about towing a trailer with your vehicle. Additional rear axle maintenance is required for a vehicle used to tow a trailer. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. If yours was built with trailering options, as many are, it’s ready for heavier trailers. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer.

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If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points: D There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police.

D Consider using a sway control if your trailer will

weigh less than 5,000 lbs. (2 270 kg) for light duty vehicles, or less than 7,500 lbs. (3 405 kg) for heavy duty vehicles. You should always use a sway control if your trailer will weigh more than these limits. You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls.

D Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.

D Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you

tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.

D If you have an automatic transmission, you can

tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often (e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions). If you have a manual transmission and you are towing a trailer, it’s better not to use the highest gear. See “Tow/Haul Mode” in the Index.

Three important considerations have to do with weight: D the weight of the trailer, D the weight of the trailer tongue D and the weight on your vehicle’s tires.

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Tow/Haul Mode (If Equipped) Tow/haul is a feature on automatic transmission equipped vehicles that assists when pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load. The purpose of the tow/haul mode is to: D Reduce the frequency and improve the predictability of transmission shifts when pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load.

D Provide the same solid shift feel when pulling a

heavy trailer or a large or heavy load as when the vehicle is unloaded.

D Improve control of vehicle speed while requiring less throttle pedal activity when pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load.

Automatic transmission equipped vehicles are provided with a button at the end of the shift lever which when pressed enables tow/haul. When the button is pressed, a light on the instrument panel will illuminate to indicate that tow/haul has been selected. Tow/haul may be turned off by pressing the button again, at which time the indicator light on the instrument panel will turn off. The vehicle will automatically turn off tow/haul every time it is started.

Tow/haul is designed to be most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75% of the vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). See “Weight of the Trailer” later in the section. Tow/haul is most useful under the following driving conditions: D When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load

through rolling terrain.

D When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load

in stop and go traffic.

D When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load

in busy parking lots where improved low speed control of the vehicle is desired.

Operating the vehicle in tow/haul when lightly loaded or with no trailer at all will not cause damage. However, there is no benefit to the selection of tow/haul when the vehicle is unloaded. Such a selection when unloaded may result in unpleasant engine and transmission driving characteristics and reduced fuel economy. Tow/haul is recommended only when pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load.

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Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. And, it can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle. Use one of the following charts to determine how much your vehicle can weigh, based upon your vehicle model and options. Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming the driver and one passenger are in the tow vehicle and it has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight.

Above the 5,000 lbs. (2 268 kg) trailer rating, the handling/trailering suspension is required on C-1500 models and the handling/trailering or off-road suspension is required on K-1500 models. The engine oil cooler is required on C/K-2500 models with the VORTEC 6000 engine. Refer to the Trailering Guide for oil cooler recommendations. The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total allowable weight of the completely loaded vehicle and trailer including any passengers, cargo, equipment and conversions. The GCWR for your vehicle should not be exceeded.

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C-1500 Regular Cab Short Box (2WD)* Engine (Trans.) Axle Ratio 4300 V6 (Auto)

4300 V6 (Manual)

4800 V8 (Auto)

4800 V8 (Manual)

5300 V8

3.08
3.42
3.08
3.42
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73

Max. Trailer Wt. 4,600 lbs. (2 088 kg) 5,100 lbs. (2 315 kg) 3,600 lbs. (1 634 kg) 4,100 lbs. (1 861 kg) 6,500 lbs. (2 951 kg) 7,500 lbs. (3 405 kg) 4,500 lbs. (2 043 kg) 5,500 lbs. (2 497 kg) 7,500 lbs. (3 405 kg) 8,500 lbs. (3 859 kg)

GCWR 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 9,500 lbs. (4 313 kg) 8,000 lbs. (3 632 kg) 8,500 lbs. (3 859 kg) 11,000 lbs. (4 994 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,500 lb (680 kg) maximum.

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C-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (2WD)* Axle Ratio Engine (Trans.) 4300 V6 (Auto)

4300 V6 (Manual) 4800 V8 (Auto)

4800 V8 (Manual)

5300 V8

3.42
3.73
3.42
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73

Max. Trailer Wt. 4,700 lbs. (2 133 kg) 5,200 lbs. (2 360 kg) 3,700 lbs. (1 679 kg) 6,100 lbs. (2 858 kg) 7,100 lbs. (3 223 kg) 4,200 lbs. (1 906 kg) 5,200 lbs. (2 360 kg) 7,100 lbs. (3 223 kg) 8,100 lbs. (3 677 kg)

GCWR 9,500 lbs. (4 313 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 8,500 lbs. (3 859 kg) 11,000 lbs. (4 994 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,500 lb (680 kg) maximum.

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C-1500 Crew Cab Short Box (2WD)* Engine (Trans.) 6000 V8

Axle Ratio

3.73
4.10

C-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (2WD)* Engine (Trans.) Axle Ratio 4300 V6 (Auto)

4300 V6 (Manual)

4800 V8 (Auto)

4800 V8 (Manual)

5300 V8

Max. Trailer Wt. 8,300 lbs. (3 765 kg) 10,300 lbs. (4 672 kg)

GCWR 14,000 lbs. (6 356 kg) 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg)

Max. Trailer Wt. 4,500 lbs. (2 043 kg) 5,000 lbs. (2 270 kg) 3,500 lbs. (1 589 kg) 4,000 lbs. (1 816 kg) 6,400 lbs. (2 905 kg) 7,400 lbs. (3 359 kg) 4,400 lbs. (1 997 kg) 5,400 lbs. (2 451 kg) 7,400 lbs. (3 359 kg) 8,400 lbs. (3 813 kg)

GCWR 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 9,500 lbs. (4 313 kg) 8,000 lbs. (3 632 kg) 8,500 lbs. (3 859 kg) 11,000 lbs. (4 994 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg)

3.08
3.42
3.08
3.42
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,500 lb (680 kg) maximum.

4-69

C-1500 Extended Cab Long Box (2WD)* Axle Ratio Engine (Trans.) 4800 V8 (Auto)

4800 V8 (Manual)

5300 V8

3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73

Max. Trailer Wt. 6,000 lbs. (2 724 kg) 7,000 lbs. (3 178 kg) 4,000 lbs. (1 816 kg) 5,000 lbs. (2 270 kg) 7,000 lbs. (3 178 kg) 8,000 lbs. (3 632 kg)

GCWR 11,000 lbs. (4 994 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,500 lb (680 kg) maximum.

4-70

K-1500 Regular Cab Short Box (4WD)* Axle Ratio Engine (Trans.) 4300 V6 (Auto)

4300 V6 (Manual)

4800 V8 (Auto)

4800 V8 (Manual)

5300 V8

3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt. 4,800 lbs. (2 179 kg) 5,300 lbs. (2 406 kg) 3,800 lbs. (1 725 kg) 4,300 lbs. (1 952 kg) 7,200 lbs. (3 268 kg) 8,200 lbs. (3 722 kg) 5,200 lbs. (2 360 kg) 6,200 lbs. (2 814 kg) 8,200 lbs. (3 722 kg) 9,200 lbs. (4 176 kg)

GCWR 9,500 lbs. (4 313 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 8,500 lbs. (3 859 kg) 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 11,000 lbs. (4 994 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg) 14,000 lbs. (6 356 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,500 lb (680 kg) maximum.

4-71

K-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (4WD)* Axle Ratio Engine (Trans.) 4800 V8 (Auto)

4800 V8 (Manual)

5300 V8

K-1500 Crew Cab Short Box (4WD)* Engine (Trans.) 6000 V8

Axle Ratio

3.73
4.10

3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt. 6,800 lbs. (3 087 kg) 7,800 lbs. (3 541 kg) 4,800 lbs. (2 268 kg) 5,800 lbs. (2 994 kg) 7,800 lbs. (3 629 kg) 8,800 lbs. (4 082 kg)

GCWR 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 11,000 lbs. (4 994 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg) 14,000 lbs. (6 356 kg)

Max. Trailer Wt. 8,000 lbs. (3 632 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg)

GCWR 14,000 lbs. (6 356 kg) 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,500 lb (680 kg) maximum.

4-72

K-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (4WD)* Axle Ratio Engine (Trans.) 4300 V6 (Auto)

4300 V6 (Manual)

4800 V8 (Auto)

4800 V8 (Manual)

5300 V8

3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt. 4,700 lbs. (2 133 kg) 5,200 lbs. (2 360 kg) 3,700 lbs. (1 679 kg) 4,200 lbs. (1 906 kg) 7,100 lbs. (3 223 kg) 8,100 lbs. (3 677 kg) 5,100 lbs. (2 315 kg) 6,100 lbs. (2 769 kg) 8,100 lbs. (3 677 kg) 9,100 lbs. (4 134 kg)

GCWR 9,500 lbs. (4 313 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 8,500 lbs. (3 859 kg) 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 11,000 lbs. (4 994 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg) 14,000 lbs. (6 356 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,500 lb (680 kg) maximum.

4-73

K-1500 Extended Cab Long Box (4WD)* Axle Ratio Engine (Trans.) 4800 V8 (Auto)

4800 V8 (Manual)

5300 V8

C-2500 LD (2WD)** Engine 6000 V8

3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt. 6,700 lbs. (3 041 kg) 7,700 lbs. (3 495 kg) 4,700 lbs. (2 133 kg) 5,700 lbs. (2 587 kg) 7,700 lbs. (3 495 kg) 8,700 lbs. (3 949 kg)

GCWR 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 11,000 lbs. (4 994 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 902 kg) 14,000 lbs. (6 356 kg)

Axle Ratio

3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt. 8,800 lbs. (3 995 kg) 10,800 lbs. (4 903 kg)

GCWR 14,000 lbs. (6 356 kg) 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,500 lb (680 kg) maximum. ** Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch pulling weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch pulling weight 2,000 lb (907 kg) maximum.

4-74

C-2500 Regular Cab Long Box HD (2WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

Axle Ratio

6.6L V8 Diesel

C-2500 Extended Cab Short Box HD (2WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

Axle Ratio

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

6.6L V8 Diesel

Max. Trailer Wt. 10,500 lbs. (4 767 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

Max. Trailer Wt. 10,300 lbs. (4 676 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-75

C-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (2WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

Axle Ratio

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

6.6L V8 Diesel

C-2500 Crew Cab Short Box HD (2WD)* Axle Ratio Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

6.6L V8 Diesel

Max. Trailer Wt. 10,200 lbs. (4 627 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

Max. Trailer Wt. 10,100 lbs. (4 585 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-76

C-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (2WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

Axle Ratio Max. Trailer Wt.

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

6.6L V8 Diesel

K-2500 LD (4WD)* Engine 6000 V8

Axle Ratio

3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt. 8,300 lbs. (3 768 kg) 10,300 lbs. (4 676 kg)

GCWR 14,000 lbs. (6 356 kg) 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-77

K-2500 Regular Cab Short Box HD (4WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

Axle Ratio

6.6L V8 Diesel

K-2500 Regular Cab Long Box HD (4WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

Axle Ratio

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

6.6L V8 Diesel

Max. Trailer Wt. 10,200 lbs. (4 630 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

Max. Trailer Wt. 10,200 lbs. (4 630 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20, 000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-78

K-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (4WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

Axle Ratio

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

6.6L V8 Diesel

K-2500 Crew Cab Short Box HD (4WD)* Axle Ratio Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

6.6L V8 Diesel

Max. Trailer Wt. 9,900 lbs. (4 494 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

Max. Trailer Wt. 9,800 lbs. (4 449 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22, 000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-79

4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73

K-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (4WD)* Axle Ratio Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8

6.6L V8 Diesel

C-3500 Regular Cab HD (2WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8
6.6L V8 Diesel

4.10
4.10
3.73

Axle Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt. 9,900 lbs. (4 491 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

Max. Trailer Wt. 10,200 lbs. (4 630 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 20,000 lbs. (9 080 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-80

C-3500 Extended Cab (2WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8
6.6L V8 Diesel

Axle Ratio

4.10
4.10
3.73

Max. Trailer Wt. 9,800 lbs. (4 449 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

C-3500 Crew Cab (2WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8
6.6L V8 Diesel

Axle Ratio

4.10
4.10
3.73

Max. Trailer Wt. 9,600 lbs. (4 491 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-81

K-3500 Regular Cab (4WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8
6.6L V8 Diesel

4.10
4.10
3.73

Axle Ratio

K-3500 Extended Cab (4WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8
6.6L V8 Diesel

4.10
4.10
3.73

Axle Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt. 9,900 lbs. (4 494 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)

Max. Trailer Wt. 9,500 lbs. (4 313 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-82

K-3500 Crew Cab (4WD)* Engine 6000 V8
8100 V8
6.6L V8 Diesel

Axle Ratio

4.10
4.10
3.73

Max. Trailer Wt. 9,300 lbs. (4 222 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)** 12,000 lbs. (5 448 kg)**

GCWR 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 988 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10 percent to 15 percent of hitch weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum. Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15 percent to 25 percent of hitch weight 2,500 lb (1 134 kg) maximum. ** Fifth wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg).

4-83

You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at the address listed in your Warranty and Owner Assistance Information Booklet. In Canada, write to:

General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you will tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index for more information about your vehicle’s maximum load capacity.

4-84

If you’re using a weight-carrying or a weight-distributing hitch, the trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). Do not exceed the maximum allowable tongue weight for your vehicle. After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer.

Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. For trailers up to 5,000 lbs. (2 270 kg) you may attach the safety chains to the attaching points on the bumper. For heavier trailers, follow the trailer or hitch manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety chains. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. Never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.

Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver’s door or see “Tire Loading” in the Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow: D If you use a step-bumper hitch, your bumper could

be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure you have ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper.

D If you’ll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than the capacity stamped on your step bumper, be sure to use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when you’re driving.

4-85

Trailer Brakes If your trailer weighs more than 2,000 lbs. (900 kg) loaded, then it needs its own brakes -- and they must be adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Your trailer brake system can tap into the vehicle’s hydraulic brake system only if: D The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi

(20 650 kPa) of pressure.

D The trailer’s brake system will use less than

0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle’s master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking systems won’t work well. You could even lose your brakes.

If everything checks out this far, make the brake tap at the port on the master cylinder that sends the fluid to the rear brakes. But don’t use copper tubing for this. If you do, it will bend and finally break off. Use steel brake tubing.

Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working. While towing a trailer or when exposed to long periods of sunshine, the floor of the truck bed may become very warm. Avoid putting items in the truck bed that might be affected by high ambient temperatures.

4-86

Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.

Making Turns

NOTICE:

Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering.

When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance. Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop. When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. It’s important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working.

4-87

Driving On Grades Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. If you have an automatic transmission, you can tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often (e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions). You may also want to activate the tow/haul mode if the transmission shifts too often. See “Tow/Haul Mode” in the Index. If you have a 5-speed manual transmission and you are towing a trailer, it’s better not to use FIFTH (5) gear. Just drive in FOURTH (4) gear (or, as you need to, a lower gear).

If you have a 6-speed manual transmission and you are towing a trailer, it’s better not to use SIXTH (6) gear. Drive in FIFTH (5) gear (or, as you need to, a lower gear). When towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, consider the following: Engine coolant will boil at a lower temperature than at normal altitudes. If you turn your engine off immediately after towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, your vehicle may show signs similar to engine overheating. To avoid this, let the engine run while parked (preferably on level ground) with the automatic transmission in PARK (P) (or the manual transmission out of gear and the parking brake applied) for a few minutes before turning the engine off. If you do get the overheat warning, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index.

4-88

Parking on Hills

CAUTION:

You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.

But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into

PARK (P) yet for an automatic transmission, or into gear for a manual transmission.

2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels. 3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.

4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your parking brake and shift into PARK (P) for an automatic transmission, or REVERSE (R) for a manual transmission.

5. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be

sure the transfer case is in a drive gear and not in NEUTRAL.

6. Release the regular brakes.

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. Always put the shift lever fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. If the transfer case on four-wheel drive vehicles is in NEUTRAL, your vehicle will be free to roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL.

4-89

When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down

while you: D start your engine, D shift into a gear, and D release the parking brake.

2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks.

Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.

4-90

Trailer Wiring Harness Your vehicle is equipped with one of the following wiring harnesses for towing a trailer or hauling a slide-in camper.

Basic Trailer Wiring Package All regular, extended cab crew cab pickups have a six-wire trailer towing harness.

The six-wire harness is located at the rear of the vehicle and is tied to the vehicle’s frame. The harness requires the installation of a trailer-wiring harness connector, which is available through your dealer. The six-wire harness contains the following trailer circuits: D Yellow: Left Stop/Turn Signal D Dark Green: Right Stop/Turn Signal D Brown: Taillamps D White: Ground D Light Green: Back-up Lamps D Light Blue: Center High-Mounted

Stoplamp (CHMSL)

If you need to upgrade your vehicle to heavy-duty trailering, a brake controller harness and an underbody harness with a seven-pin universal heavy-duty trailer connector are available from your dealer.

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The eight-wire harness contains the following trailer circuits: D Yellow: Left Stop/Turn Signal D Dark Green: Right Stop/Turn Signal D Brown: Taillamps D White: Ground D Light Green: Back-up Lamps D Light Blue: CHMSL D Red: Battery Feed D Dark Blue: Trailer Brake A jumper harness for an electric trailer brake controller and a trailer battery feed fuse are included with this trailering package. (See “Instrument Panel Jumper Wiring Harness” later in this section.) If you need to tow a light-duty trailer with a standard four-way round pin connector, an adapter connector is included with your vehicle.

Heavy-Duty Trailer Wiring Package (If Equipped)

Your pickup may be equipped with the eight-wire trailer towing harness. This harness with a seven-pin universal heavy-duty trailer connector is attached to a bracket on the platform hitch.* * The Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) wire is tied next to the trailer wiring harness for use with a trailer, slide-in camper or cap.

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Camper/Fifth-Wheel Trailer Wiring Package (If Equipped) The eight-wire camper harness is located under the front edge of the pickup box on the driver’s side of the vehicle, attached to the frame bracket. A connector will have to be added to the wiring harness which connects to the camper. The eight-wire harness contains the following camper/trailer circuits: D Yellow: Left Stop/Turn Signal D Dark Green: Right Stop/Turn Signal D Brown: Taillamps D White: Ground D Light Green: Back-up Lamps D Light Blue: Center High-Mounted

Stoplamp (CHMSL)

D Red: Battery Feed D Dark Blue: Trailer Brake A jumper harness for an electric trailer brake controller and a trailer battery feed fuse are included with this trailering package. (See “Instrument Panel Jumper Wiring Harness” later in this section.)

If your vehicle is equipped with the “Heavy-Duty Trailering” option, please refer to “Heavy-Duty Trailer Wiring Package”, earlier in this section. When the camper-wiring harness is ordered without the heavy-duty trailering package, an eight-wire harness with a seven-pin connector and separate CHMSL connector are located at the rear of the vehicle and are tied to the vehicle’s frame.

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Instrument Panel Jumper Wiring Harness

Four Wire Trailer Harness Adapter If you need to tow a light-duty trailer with a standard four-way round pin connector, an adapter connector is included with your vehicle.

Connect the adapter with the tab (arrow) pointing towards the top. The cap on the wiring harness will lock onto the tab (arrow) and help hold the adapter in place.

This harness is included with the heavy-duty and camper/fifth-wheel trailer wiring packages. The harness is for an electric trailer brake controller and includes a trailer battery feed fuse. This harness and fuse should be installed by your dealer or a qualified service center.

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Auxiliary Battery (If Equipped) The auxiliary battery provision can be used to supply electrical power to additional equipment that you may choose to add, such as a slide-in camper.

If your vehicle has this provision, this relay will be located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle, next to the auxiliary battery.

The auxiliary battery circuit is protected by a megafuse located behind the auxiliary battery. Be sure to follow the proper installation instructions that are included with any electrical equipment that you install.

NOTICE:

When using the auxiliary battery provision, the electrical load must not exceed 30 amps. Always turn off any electrical equipment when not in use. Leaving electrical equipment on for extended periods will drain your battery.

When using this provision, connection should only be made to the upper stud (A) of the relay. Do not make connections to the lower stud (B) of the relay.

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Power Winches If you wish to use a power winch on your vehicle, only use it when your vehicle is stationary or anchored.

NOTICE:

Using a power winch with the transmission in gear may damage the transmission. When operating a power winch, always leave the transmission in NEUTRAL (N).

Use the regular brakes, set the parking brake, or block the wheels to keep your vehicle from rolling. Power Take-Off (PTO) (If Equipped) Before using a PTO, refer to the manufacturer’s or installer’s instructions. To engage a PTO on a vehicle with a manual transmission do the following: 1. Hold the clutch pedal down. 2. Set the parking brake.

3. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL (N). 4. Engage the PTO. Refer to the manufacturer’s

or installer’s for instructions on electrically engaged PTOs.

5. For mobile operations, shift the transmission into the

gear you want, apply the regular brakes and release the parking brake. For stationary operations, leave the parking brake applied.

6. Release the clutch and regular brakes as you

normally would. When the clutch is released, the PTO will start.

7. Turn the PTO rotary switch to ON. To engage a PTO on a vehicle with an automatic transmission do the following: 1. For stationary use shift the transmission

into PARK (P).

2. Turn the PTO rotary switch ON. 3. If the engine speed is below the PTO engage speed limit, the PTO will start. The blinking LED on the PTO control switch indicates PTO engage is requested. When PTO engages the LED will switch from blinking to a steady light.

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To use PTO speed control in Preset Mode (Factory Setting) do the following: 1. Engage the PTO 2. Select PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) range. Apply the

parking brake if NEUTRAL (N) is selected. Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) is not available in NEUTRAL (N) and is available only in PARK (P) when engine speed is above 1100 rpm.

3. Make sure your foot is off the brake pedal

(and off the clutch on vehicles equipped with a manual transmission).

4. Select the desired engine speed for PTO operation.

Read the following preset mode information regarding operation.

Preset Mode: PTO speed control mode is used for stationary applications. (PTO will remain engaged while mobile in the preset mode, however PTO set and resume speed controls will be inoperative). This mode provides a default standby speed of 800 or 850 rpm (depending on the engine/transmission combination) and two default PTO control speeds which follow: 1. PTO Set Speed of 1250 rpm, or 2. PTO Resume Speed of 1700 rpm. Please note that the standby speed (800/850 rpm) is not to be used as a PTO control speed. Vehicles not equipped with cruise control will not have the resume speed capability. To use PTO speed control in variable mode (while mobile) do the following: 1. Engage the PTO. 2. Vehicle speed must be greater than 5 mph. 3. Make sure your foot is off the brake pedal

(and off the clutch for vehicles equipped with a manual transmission).

4. Select the desired engine speed by using the foot

pedal, and select SET on the PTO switch or the cruise control.

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All engine speed values listed above are factory preset values. With the exception of the TCC lockup speed (1100 rpm) and the “tap” increment (100 rpm), all of these values are programmable and can be adjusted by your dealer or body upfitter. If the PTO software settings do not match the settings shown here, then they may have already been altered in order to satisfy the requirements of the installed PTO system and body equipment. Step-Bumper Pad Your vehicle has a rear step bumper with a rear step pad at the center of the bumper.

If you will be using the bumper to tow a trailer, you must remove the center cutout circle to install the trailer ball.

To use PTO speed control in variable mode (while stationary) do the following: 1. Engage the PTO. 2. Vehicle speed must be less than 5 mph. 3. Make sure your foot is off the brake pedal

(and off the clutch for vehicles equipped with a manual transmission).

4. Select the desired engine speed by using the foot

pedal, and select SET on the PTO switch or the cruise control.

Variable Mode: PTO speed control mode can be used for both stationary and mobile applications. This mode allows PTO to be controlled in a fashion similar to how cruise control sets vehicle speed. The operator can set to an rpm (between 800 and 2200) with the cruise control feature or with the SET position on the PTO switch. The operator is then able to increase rpm in increments of 100, or “tap up”, with the resume position on the cruise control. Or, the operator can decrease rpm in increments of 100 with the SET switch on the PTO or the cruise control. Vehicles not equipped with cruise control will not have the “tap up” capability.

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Section 5 Problems on the Road

Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.

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Hazard Warning Flashers Other Warning Devices Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Engine Overheating (Gasoline Engine)

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Cooling System (Gasoline Engine) Engine Fan Noise If a Tire Goes Flat Changing a Flat Tire If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow

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5-1

Hazard Warning Flashers

The hazard warning flasher button is located at the top of the steering column.

Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn’t in. Press the button to make the front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Press the button again to turn the flashers off. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won’t work. Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can use them to warn others. Set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle.

Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off.

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Jump Starting If your battery (or batteries) has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to follow the steps below to do it safely.

CAUTION:

Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: D They contain acid that can burn you. D They contain gas that can explode or ignite. D They contain enough electricity to burn you. If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.

NOTICE:

Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. The ACDelcoR battery in your vehicle has a built-in hydrometer. Do not charge, test or jump start the battery if the hydrometer looks clear or light yellow. Replace the battery when there is a clear or light yellow hydrometer and a cranking complaint. Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it won’t work, and it could damage your vehicle.

1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt

battery with a negative ground system.

NOTICE:

If the other system isn’t a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged.

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NOTICE:

If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

4. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug

unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or accessory power outlets. Turn off the radio and all lamps that aren’t needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio!

2. If you have a vehicle with a diesel engine with two

batteries (or more), you should know before you begin that, especially in cold weather, you may not be able to get enough power from a single battery in another vehicle to start your diesel engine. If your vehicle has more than one battery, use the battery that’s closer to the starter -- this will reduce electrical resistance.