2009 GMC Sierra Owners Manual

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4-26 Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can reduce vehicle traction and affect your ability to stop and accelerate. Always drive slower in these types of driving conditions and avoid driving through large puddles and deep-standing or ﬂowing water. { CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause crashes. They might not work as well in a quick stop and could cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car/vehicle wash, lightly apply the brake pedal until the brakes work normally. Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces. Driving through ﬂowing water could cause your vehicle to be carried away. If this happens, you and other vehicle occupants could drown. Do not ignore police warnings and be very cautious about trying to drive through ﬂowing water. Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. Water can build up under your vehicle’s tires so they actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you are going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. There is no hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The best advice is to slow down when the road is wet. Other Rainy Weather Tips Besides slowing down, other wet weather driving tips include: (cid:129) Allow extra following distance. (cid:129) Pass with caution. (cid:129) Keep windshield wiping equipment in good shape. (cid:129) Keep the windshield washer ﬂuid reservoir ﬁlled. (cid:129) Have good tires with proper tread depth. See Tires on page 5-67. Turn off cruise control. 4-27 (cid:129) Before Leaving on a Long Trip To prepare your vehicle for a long trip, consider having it serviced by your dealer/retailer before departing. Things to check on your own include: (cid:129) Windshield Washer Fluid: Reservoir full? Windows clean — inside and outside? (cid:129) Wiper Blades: In good shape? Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: All levels checked? Lamps: Do they all work and are lenses clean? Tires: Are treads good? Are tires inﬂated to recommended pressure? (cid:129) Weather and Maps: Safe to travel? Have up-to-date maps? Highway Hypnosis Always be alert and pay attention to your surroundings while driving. If you become tired or sleepy, ﬁnd a safe place to park your vehicle and rest. Other driving tips include: (cid:129) Keep the vehicle well ventilated. (cid:129) Keep interior temperature cool. (cid:129) Keep your eyes moving — scan the road ahead and to the sides. (cid:129) Check the rearview mirror and vehicle instruments often. Hill and Mountain Roads Driving on steep hills or through mountains is different than driving on ﬂat or rolling terrain. Tips for driving in these conditions include: (cid:129) Keep the vehicle serviced and in good shape. (cid:129) Check all ﬂuid levels and brakes, tires, cooling system, and transmission. (cid:129) Going down steep or long hills, shift to a lower gear. 4-28 (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) Stay in your own lane. Do not swing wide or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane. Top of hills: Be alert — something could be in your lane (stalled car, accident). (cid:129) Pay attention to special road signs (falling rocks area, winding roads, long grades, passing or no-passing zones) and take appropriate action. See Off-Road Driving on page 4-13 for information about driving off-road. { CAUTION: If you do not shift down, the brakes could get so hot that they would not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Shift down to let the engine assist the brakes on a steep downhill slope. { CAUTION: Coasting downhill in N (Neutral) or with the ignition off is dangerous. The brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down and they could get so hot that they would not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Always have the engine running and the vehicle in gear when going downhill. 4-29 (cid:129) Winter Driving Driving on Snow or Ice Drive carefully when there is snow or ice between the tires and the road, creating less traction or grip. Wet ice can occur at about 32°F (0°C) when freezing rain begins to fall, resulting in even less traction. Avoid driving on wet ice or in freezing rain until roads can be treated with salt or sand. Drive with caution, whatever the condition. Accelerate gently so traction is not lost. Accelerating too quickly causes the wheels to spin and makes the surface under the tires slick, so there is even less traction. 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. The StabiliTrak® System on page 4-6 improves the ability to accelerate on slippery roads, but slow down and adjust your driving to the road conditions. When driving through deep snow, turn off the traction control part of the StabiliTrak® System to help maintain vehicle motion at lower speeds. The Antilock Brake System (ABS) on page 4-5 improves vehicle stability during hard stops on a slippery roads, but apply the brakes sooner than when on dry pavement. Allow greater following distance on any slippery road and watch for slippery spots. Icy patches can occur on otherwise clear roads in shaded areas. The surface of a curve or an overpass can remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. Avoid sudden steering maneuvers and braking while on ice. Turn off cruise control, if equipped, on slippery surfaces. Blizzard Conditions Being stuck in snow can be in a serious situation. Stay with the vehicle unless there is help nearby. If possible, use the Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-7. To get help and keep everyone in the vehicle safe: Turn on the Hazard Warning Flashers on page 3-8. Tie a red cloth to an outside mirror. 4-30 (cid:129) (cid:129) { CAUTION: Snow can trap engine exhaust under the vehicle. This may cause exhaust gases to get inside. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If the vehicle is stuck in the snow: (cid:129) Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking the exhaust pipe. (cid:129) Check again from time to time to be sure snow does not collect there. (cid:129) Open a window about two inches (5 cm) on the side of the vehicle that is away from the wind to bring in fresh air. (cid:129) Fully open the air outlets on or under the instrument panel. (cid:129) Adjust the Climate Control system to a setting that circulates the air inside the vehicle and set the fan speed to the highest setting. See Climate Control System in the Index. CAUTION: (Continued) CAUTION: (Continued) For more information about carbon monoxide, see Engine Exhaust on page 2-55. 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 cannot 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 the exhaust. Run the engine for short periods only as needed to keep warm, but be careful. To save fuel, run the engine for only short periods as needed to warm the vehicle and then shut the engine off and close the window most of the way to save heat. Repeat this until help arrives but only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. Moving about to keep warm also helps. If it takes some time for help to arrive, now and then when you run the engine, push the accelerator pedal slightly so the engine runs faster than the idle speed. This keeps the battery charged to restart the vehicle and to signal for help with the headlamps. Do this as little as possible to save fuel. 4-31 Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out Turn the steering wheel left and right to clear the area around the front wheels. For four-wheel-drive vehicles, shift into Four-Wheel High. For vehicles with StabiliTrak®, turn the traction control part of the system off. Shift back and forth between R (Reverse) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. To prevent transmission wear, wait until the wheels stop spinning before shifting gears. Release the accelerator pedal while shifting, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transmission is in gear. Slowly spinning the wheels in the forward and reverse directions causes a rocking motion that could free the vehicle. If that does not get the vehicle out after a few tries, it might need to be towed out. Recovery hooks can be used, if the vehicle has them. If the vehicle does need to be towed out, see Towing Your Vehicle on page 4-47. If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow Slowly and cautiously spin the wheels to free the vehicle when stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow. See Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out on page 4-32. If the vehicle has a traction system, it can often help to free a stuck vehicle. Refer to the vehicle’s traction system in the Index. If stuck too severely for the traction system to free the vehicle, turn the traction system off and use the rocking method. { CAUTION: If you let your vehicle’s tires spin at high speed, they can explode, and you or others could be injured. The vehicle can overheat, causing an engine compartment ﬁre or other damage. Spin the wheels as little as possible and avoid going above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the speedometer. For information about using tire chains on the vehicle, see Tire Chains on page 5-92. 4-32 Recovery Hooks { CAUTION: These hooks, when used, are under a lot of force. Always pull the vehicle straight out. Never pull on the hooks at a sideways angle. The hooks could break off and you or others could be injured from the chain or cable snapping back. Notice: Never use recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged and it would not be covered by warranty. For vehicles with recovery hooks at the front of the vehicle, you can use them if you are stuck off-road and need to be pulled to some place where you can continue driving. 4-33 Loading the Vehicle It is very important to know how much weight your vehicle can carry. This weight is called the vehicle capacity weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo, and all nonfactory-installed options. Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it was designed to carry, the Tire and Loading Information label and the Certiﬁcation/Tire label. { CAUTION: Do not load the vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on the 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 the vehicle. 4-34 Tire and Loading Information Label Label Example A vehicle speciﬁc Tire and Loading Information label is attached to the center pillar (B-pillar). With the driver’s door open, you will ﬁnd the label attached below the door lock post (striker). The tire and loading information label shows the number of occupant seating positions (A), and the maximum vehicle capacity weight (B) in kilograms and pounds. The Tire and Loading Information label also shows the size of the original equipment tires (C) and the recommended cold tire inﬂation pressures (D). For more information on tires and inﬂation see Tires on page 5-67 and Inﬂation - Tire Pressure on page 5-76. There is also important loading information on the vehicle Certiﬁcation/Tire label. It tells you the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axles. See “Certiﬁcation/Tire Label” later in this section. Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit 1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs” on your vehicle’s placard. 2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. 3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs. 4. The resulting ﬁgure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be ﬁve 150 lb passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs (1400 − 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs). 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4. 6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, the load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle. See Towing a Trailer on page 4-53 for important information on towing a trailer, towing safety rules and trailering tips. 4-35 Example 1 Example 2 Item Description Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 1 = Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) × 2 = Available Occupant and Cargo Weight = Total Item 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 300 lbs (136 kg) 700 lbs (317 kg) Description Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 2 = Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) × 5 = Available Cargo Weight = Total 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 750 lbs (340 kg) 250 lbs (113 kg) 4-36 Certiﬁcation/Tire Label Example 3 Item Description Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 3 = Subtract Occupant Weight 200 lbs (91 kg) × 5 = Available Cargo Weight = Total 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 1000 lbs (453 kg) 0 lbs (0 kg) Refer to your vehicle’s tire and loading information label for speciﬁc information about your vehicle’s capacity weight and seating positions. The combined weight of the driver, passengers, and cargo should never exceed your vehicle’s capacity weight. A vehicle speciﬁc Certiﬁcation/Tire label is found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. The label shows the size of your vehicle’s original tires and the inﬂation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of your vehicle. This is called Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel, and cargo. 4-37 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 important information about your Front Axle Reserve Capacity. See “What is front axle reserve capacity, and how do I calculate it?” under Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment on page 4-40. { 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 the vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on the 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 the vehicle. Notice: Overloading your vehicle may cause damage. Repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not overload your vehicle. 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 will keep going. 4-38 { CAUTION: Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. (cid:129) Put things in the cargo area of your vehicle. Try to spread the weight evenly. (cid:129) Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats. (cid:129) Do not leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle. (cid:129) When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can. (cid:129) Do not leave a seat folded down unless you need to. There is also important loading information for off-road driving in this manual. See “Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving“ under Off-Road Driving on page 4-13. Two-Tiered Loading Depending on the model of your pick-up, you can create an upper load platform by positioning two or four 2 inches (5 cm) by 6 inches (15 cm) wooden planks across the width of the pickup box. 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. 4-39 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. Notice: Overloading your vehicle may cause damage. Repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not overload your vehicle. Remember not to exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of the front or rear axle. * 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). If your vehicle does not have the snow Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment Before installing a snow plow on your vehicle, here are some things you will need to know: Notice: plow prep package, adding a plow can damage your vehicle, and the repairs would not be covered by warranty. Unless your vehicle was built to carry a snow plow, do not add one to your vehicle. If your vehicle has the snow plow prep package, called RPO VYU, 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 Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) are exceeded. Some vehicles are built with a special snow plow prep package, called RPO VYU. 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 Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), are not exceeded. 4-40 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. 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. The total vehicle must not exceed the GVW rating. Front axle reserve capacity is the difference between your front Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) and the front axle weight of your vehicle with full fuel and passengers. Basically, it is the amount of weight you can add to your front axle before reaching your front GAWR. The plow your vehicle can carry depends on many things, such as: The options your vehicle came with, and the weight of those options. The weight and number of passengers you intend to carry. The weight of items you have added to your vehicle, like a tool box or truck cap. 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). This means that you may only be able to carry one passenger. But, even this may be too much if you have got other equipment already adding to the weight of your vehicle. Here are some guidelines for safely carrying a snow plow on your vehicle: (cid:129) Make sure the weight on the front and rear axles does not exceed the axle rating for each. 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 will not move during driving. 4-41 (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) The front axle reserve capacity for your vehicle can be found in the lower right corner of the Certiﬁcation/Tire label, as shown. 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: United States Canada 4-42 (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 For example, adding a 700 lb (318 kg) snow plow actually adds more than 700 lbs (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 lbs (445 kg) So, if your truck’s front axle reserve capacity is more than 980 lbs (445 kg), you could add the snow plow without exceeding the front GAWR. 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 towards the rear. This has the effect of reducing the load on the front. However, the front GAWR, rear GAWR, and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) must never be exceeded. { CAUTION: On some vehicles that have certain front mounted equipment, such as a snow plow, it may be possible to load the front axle to the front gross axle weight rating (GAWR) but not have enough weight on the rear axle to have proper braking performance. If your brakes can not 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 gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Maintaining a proper front and rear weight distribution ratio is necessary to provide proper braking performance. Total vehicle reserve capacity is the difference between your GVWR and the weight of your truck with full fuel and passengers. It is the amount of weight you can add to your vehicle before reaching your GVWR. 4-43 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 vehicle’s front, rear, or total weight, go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer/retailer can also help you with this. The total vehicle reserve capacity for your vehicle can be found in the lower right corner of the Certiﬁcation/Tire label as shown previously. See your dealer/retailer for additional advice and information about using a snow plow on your vehicle. Also, see Loading the Vehicle on page 4-34. Emergency Roof Lamp Provisions Vehicles with the RPO VYU snow plow prep package also have an emergency roof lamp provision package, RPO TRW. Wiring for the emergency roof lamp is provided above the overhead console. See Auxiliary Roof-Mounted Lamp on page 3-19 for switch location. Truck-Camper Loading Information A vehicle speciﬁc Truck-Camper Loading information label is attached to the inside of your vehicle’s glove box. This label 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 the 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 the following: (cid:129) Everything else added to the camper after it left the factory (cid:129) Everything in the camper (cid:129) All the people inside The Cargo Weight Rating (CWR) is the maximum weight of the load your vehicle can carry. It does not include the weight of the people inside. But, you can ﬁgure about 150 lbs (68 kg) for each seat. 4-44 The total cargo load must not be more than your vehicle’s CWR. Refer to the Truck-Camper Loading Information label in the glove box for dimensions A and B as shown in the following illustration. Here is an example of proper truck and camper match: 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. A. Camper Center of Gravity B. Recommended Center of Gravity Location Zone When the truck is used to carry a slide-in camper, the total cargo load of the truck consists of the manufacturer’s camper weight ﬁgure, the weight of installed additional camper equipment not included in the manufacturer’s camper weight ﬁgure, the weight of camper cargo, and the weight of passengers in the camper. The total cargo load should not exceed the truck’s cargo weight rating and the camper’s center of gravity (A) should fall within the truck’s recommended center of gravity zone (B) when installed. 4-45 Secure loose items to prevent weight shifts that could affect the balance of your vehicle. When the truck-camper is loaded, drive to a scale and weigh on the front and on the rear wheels separately to determine axle loads. Individual axle loads should not exceed either of the gross axle weight ratings (GAWR). The total axle loads should not exceed your vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). These ratings are given on the vehicle certiﬁcation label attached to the rear edge of the driver’s door. See “Certiﬁcation/Tire Label” under Loading the Vehicle on page 4-34. If weight ratings are exceeded, move or remove items to bring all weights below the ratings. 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.” 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 and help you determine the CWR. After you have 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 the axles. The loads on the front and rear axles should not be more than either of the Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR). The total of the axle loads should not be more than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Open the driver’s door and look at the Certiﬁcation/Tire label to ﬁnd out your vehicle’s GAWRs and GVWR. If your vehicle has gone over the weight ratings, move or take out some things until all the weight falls below the ratings. 4-46 Pickup Conversion to Chassis Cab We are aware that some vehicle owners might consider having the pickup box removed and a commercial or recreational body installed. Owners should be aware that, as manufactured, there are differences between a chassis cab and a pickup with the box removed which could affect vehicle safety. The components necessary to adapt a pickup to permit its safe use with a specialized body should be installed by the body builder. Towing Towing Your Vehicle To avoid damage, the disabled vehicle should be towed with all four wheels off the ground. Consult your dealer/retailer or a professional towing service if the disabled vehicle must be towed. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-7. To tow the vehicle behind another vehicle for recreational purposes, such as behind a motorhome, see “Recreational Vehicle Towing” following. Recreational Vehicle Towing Recreational vehicle towing means towing the vehicle behind another vehicle – such as behind a motorhome. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as dinghy towing and dolly towing. Dinghy towing is towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Dolly towing is towing the vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a dolly. Here are some important things to consider before recreational vehicle towing: (cid:129) What is the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure to read the tow vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. (cid:129) What is the distance that will be travelled? Some vehicles have restrictions on how far and how long they can tow. Is the proper towing equipment going to be used? See your dealer/retailer or trailering professional for additional advice and equipment recommendations. Is the vehicle ready to be towed? Just as preparing the vehicle for a long trip, make sure the vehicle is prepared to be towed. See Before Leaving on a Long Trip on page 4-28. 4-47 (cid:129) (cid:129) Dinghy Towing Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Use the following procedure to dinghy tow a four-wheel-drive vehicle: 1. Position the vehicle being towed behind the tow vehicle and shift the transmission to P (Park). 2. Turn the engine off and ﬁrmly set the parking brake. 3. Securely attach the vehicle being towed to the tow vehicle. If the vehicle is towed with all four wheels Notice: on the ground, the drivetrain components could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not tow the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. 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. 4-48 { CAUTION: Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer case into N (Neutral) can cause the vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in P (Park). The driver or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is ﬁrmly set before the transfer case is shifted to N (Neutral). 4. Shift the transfer case to N (Neutral). See “Shifting into Neutral” under Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-37 for the proper procedure to select the Neutral position for the vehicle. 5. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is ﬁrmly attached to the towing vehicle. 6. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF and remove the key — the steering wheel will still turn. After towing, see “Shifting Out of Neutral” under Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-37 for the proper procedure to take the vehicle out of the Neutral position. Dolly Towing Front Towing (Front Wheels Off the Ground) Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Notice: If a two-wheel-drive vehicle is towed with the rear wheels on the ground, the transmission could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Never tow the vehicle with the rear wheels on the ground. 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. 4-49 To dolly tow a two-wheel-drive vehicle, the vehicle must be towed with the rear wheels on the dolly. See “Rear Towing (Rear Wheels Off the Ground)” later in this section for more information. Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Use the following procedure to dolly tow a four-wheel-drive vehicle from the front: 1. Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following the dolly manufacturer’s instructions. 2. Drive the front wheels onto the dolly. 3. Shift the transmission to P (Park). 4-50 4. Firmly set the parking brake. { CAUTION: Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer case into N (Neutral) can cause the vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in P (Park). The driver or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is ﬁrmly set before the transfer case is shifted to N (Neutral). 5. Use an adequate clamping device designed for towing to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position. 6. Secure the vehicle to the dolly following the manufacturer’s instructions. 7. Shift the transfer case to N (Neutral). See “Shifting into Neutral” under Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-37 for the proper procedure to select the neutral position for the vehicle. 8. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is ﬁrmly attached to the towing vehicle. 9. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. After towing, see “Shifting Out of Neutral” under Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-37. Rear Towing (Rear Wheels Off the Ground) Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Use the following procedure to dolly tow a two-wheel-drive vehicle from the rear: 1. Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following the dolly manufacturer’s instructions. 2. Drive the rear wheels onto the dolly. 3. Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-50. 4. Put the transmission in P (Park). 5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly following the manufacturer’s instructions. 6. Use an adequate clamping device designed for towing to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position. 7. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. 4-51 Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Use the following procedure to dolly tow a four-wheel-drive vehicle from the rear: 1. Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following the dolly manufacturer’s instructions. 2. Drive the rear wheels onto the dolly. 3. Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-50. 4. Put the transmission in P (Park). 5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly following the manufacturer’s instructions. 6. Use an adequate clamping device designed for towing to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position. { CAUTION: Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer case into N (Neutral) can cause the vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in P (Park). The driver or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is ﬁrmly set before the transfer case is shifted to N (Neutral). 7. Shift the transfer case to N (Neutral). See “Shifting into Neutral” under Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-37 for the proper procedure to select the neutral position for the vehicle. 8. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. After towing, see “Shifting Out of Neutral” under Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-37. 4-52 Towing a Trailer If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the DURAMAX® Diesel manual for more information. Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See New Vehicle Break-In on page 2-22 for more information. { CAUTION: The driver can lose control when pulling a trailer if the correct equipment is not used or the vehicle is not driven properly. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well or even at all. The driver and passengers could be seriously injured. The vehicle may also be damaged; the resulting repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Pull a trailer only if all the steps in this section have been followed. Ask your dealer/retailer for advice and information about towing a trailer with the vehicle. Notice: Pulling a trailer improperly can damage the vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by the vehicle warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this section and see your dealer/retailer for important information about towing a trailer with the vehicle. To identify the trailering capacity of the vehicle, read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. Trailering is different than just driving the vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, acceleration, braking, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. The following information has 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 pulling a trailer. 4-53 Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It depends on how the rig is used. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much the vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. It can depend on any special equipment on the vehicle, and the amount of tongue weight the vehicle can carry. See “Weight of the Trailer Tongue” later in this section for more information. Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only the driver is 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. Use the following chart to determine how much the vehicle can weigh, based upon the vehicle model and options. Weights listed apply for conventional trailers and ﬁfth-wheel trailers unless otherwise noted. Pulling A Trailer Here are some important points: There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure the rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you will be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. (cid:129) Consider using a sway control. See “Hitches” later in this section. (cid:129) Do not tow a trailer at all during the ﬁrst 500 miles (800 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. Then, during the ﬁrst 500 miles (800 km) that a trailer is towed, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and other parts of the vehicle wear in at the heavier loads. (cid:129) Vehicles can tow in D (Drive). Shift the transmission to a lower gear if the transmission shifts too often under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions. Three important considerations have to do with weight: The weight of the trailer The weight of the trailer tongue (cid:129) And the weight on the vehicle’s tires 4-54 (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) Vehicle 1500 Series 2WD Regular Cab Standard Box (b) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 4.3L V6 (c) 4.3L V6 (c) 4.8L V8 (c) 4.8L V8 5.3L V8 4 Speed Automatic 5.3L V8 4 Speed Automatic 5.3L LMG V8 6 Speed Automatic 5.3L LY5 V8 6 Speed Automatic 5.3L LMG V8 6 Speed Automatic, K5L HD Cooling Pkg 5.3L LY5 V8 6 Speed Automatic, K5L HD Cooling Pkg 3.23 3.73 3.23 3.73 3.42 3.73 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 1500 Series 2WD Extended Cab Standard Box (b) 4.3L V6 (c) 4.3L V6 (c) 4.8L V8 (c) 4.8L V8 5.3L V8 4 Speed Automatic 5.3L V8 4 Speed Automatic 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic, K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 3.23 3.73 3.23 3.73 3.42 3.73 3.42 3.42 4,800 lbs (2 177 kg) 5,300 lbs (2 404 kg) 5,200 lbs (2 359 kg) 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) 8,200 lbs (3 720 kg) 6,600 lbs (2 994 kg) 6,700 lbs (3 039 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 9,100 lbs (4 128 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 9,200 lbs (4 173 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 4,400 lbs (1 996 kg) 4,900 lbs (2 223 kg) 4,700 lbs (2 132 kg) 6,700 lbs (3 039 kg) 6,700 lbs (3 039 kg) 7,700 lbs (3 493 kg) 6,200 lbs (2 812 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 9,100 lbs (4 128 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 4-55 Vehicle Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic, K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 6.0L V8 6.0L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 6.0L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 6.0L V8 NHT Max Trailering Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 6.0L V8 NHT Max Trailering Pkg — Conventional Trailer 1500 Series 2WD Extended Cab Short Box (c) 4.3L V6 4.3L V6 4.8L V8 4.8L V8 5.3L V8 5.3L V8 6.0L V8 6.0L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg 1500 Series 2WD Crew Cab Short Box (c) 4.8L V8 4.8L V8 5.3L V8 4-56 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.73 3.73 3.23 3.73 3.42 3.73 3.42 3.73 3.42 3.42 3.23 3.73 3.42 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 6,700 lbs (3 039 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 8,700 lbs (3 946 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 10,700 lbs (4 853 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 4,400 lbs (1 996 kg) 4,900 lbs (2 223 kg) 5,800 lbs (2 631 kg) 6,800 lbs (3 084 kg) 6,800 lbs (3 084 kg) 7,800 lbs (3 538 kg) 6,700 lbs (3 039 kg) 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 4,700 lbs (2 132 kg) 6,700 lbs (3 039 kg) 6,100 lbs (2 767 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) Vehicle Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg 6.0L, 6.2L V8 6.0L, 6.2L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg 6.0L, 6.2L V8 NHT Max Trailering Pkg 1500 Series 2WD Regular Cab Long Box (b) 4.3L V6 (c) 4.3L V6 (c) 4.8L V8 (c) 4.8L V8 5.3L V8 4 Speed Automatic 5.3L V8 4 Speed Automatic 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic, K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic, K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 1500 Series 2WD Extended Cab Long Box (b) 5.3L V8 4 Speed Automatic — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 4 Speed Automatic — Conventional Trailer 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.73 3.23 3.73 3.23 3.73 3.42 3.73 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.73 3.73 3.42 9,600 lbs (4 355 kg) 6,600 lbs (2 994 kg) 9,600 lbs (4 355 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 10,600 lbs (4 808 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 4,700 lbs (2 132 kg) 5,200 lbs (2 359 kg) 5,100 lbs (2 313 kg) 7,100 lbs (3 221 kg) 7,000 lbs (3 175 kg) 8,000 lbs (3 629 kg) 6,500 lbs (2 948 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 8,700 lbs (3 946 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 7,500 lbs (3 402 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 7,600 lbs (3 447 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 6,000 lbs (2 722 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 4-57 Vehicle Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic, K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 6 Speed Automatic, K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 3.42 3.42 1500 Series 4WD Regular Cab Standard Box (b) 4.3L V6 (c) 4.8L V8 (c) 5.3L V8 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 5.3L V8 5.3L V8 — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 — Conventional Trailer 3.73 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.73 4.10 4.10 1500 Series 4WD Extended Cab Standard Box (b) 4.8L V8 (c) 5.3L V8 (c) 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 5.3L V8 4-58 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.73 8,700 lbs (3 946 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 5,100 lbs (2 313 kg) 6,000 lbs (2 722 kg) 6,400 lbs (2 903 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 11,000 lbs (4 990 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 8,100 lbs (3 674 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 8,900 lbs (4 037 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 7,900 lbs (3 583 kg) 8,300 lbs (3 765 kg) 8,900 lbs (4 037 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg) 5,900 lbs (2 676 kg) 11,000 lbs (4 990 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 8,900 lbs (4 037 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 9,400 lbs (4 264 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 7,500 lbs (3 402 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) Vehicle Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 5.3L V8 6.0L V8 (c) 6.0L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 6.0L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 6.0L V8 NHT Max Trailering Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 6.0L V8 NHT Max Trailering Pkg — Conventional Trailer 1500 Series 4WD Extended Cab Short Box (c) 4.8L V8 4.8L V8 5.3L V8 5.3L V8 6.0L V8 6.0L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg 1500 Series 4WD Crew Cab Short Box (c) 4.8L V8 5.3L V8 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg 6.0L, 6.2L V8 6.0L, 6.2L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg 4.10 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.73 3.73 3.42 4.10 3.73 4.10 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 8,500 lbs (3 856 kg) 6,400 lbs (2 903 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 8,400 lbs (3 810 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 9,400 lbs (4 264 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 10,400 lbs (4 717 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg) 8,500 lbs (3 856 kg) 7,500 lbs (3 402 kg) 8,500 lbs (3 856 kg) 6,400 lbs (2 903 kg) 9,400 lbs (4 264 kg) 5,400 lbs (2 449 kg) 6,000 lbs (2 722 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 6,300 lbs (2 858 kg) 9,300 lbs (4 218 kg) 11,000 lbs (4 990 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 11,000 lbs (4 990 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 4-59 Vehicle Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 6.0L V8 NHT Max Trailering Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 6.0L, 6.2L V8 NHT Max Trailering Pkg — Conventional Trailer 1500 Series 4WD Regular Cab Long Box (b) 4.3L V6 (c) 4.8L V8 (c) 5.3L V8 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 5.3L V8 — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 — Conventional Trailer 5.3L V8 — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 — Conventional Trailer 1500 Series 4WD Extended Cab Long Box (b) 5.3L V8 (c) 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Fifth-Wheel Trailer 5.3L V8 K5L HD Cooling Pkg — Conventional Trailer 5.3L LMG V8 5.3L LY5 V8 4-60 3.73 3.73 3.73 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.73 3.73 4.10 4.10 3.42 3.42 3.42 3.73 3.73 9,900 lbs (4 491 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 10,400 lbs (4 717 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 4,900 lbs (2 223 kg) 5,800 lbs (2 631 kg) 6,300 lbs (2 858 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 11,000 lbs (4 990 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 9,800 lbs (4 445 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 7,800 lbs (3 538 kg) 7,900 lbs (3 583 kg) 8,800 lbs (3 992 kg) 8,900 lbs (4 037 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 5,700 lbs (2 586 kg) 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) 7,700 lbs (3 493 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 9,200 lbs (4 173 kg) 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 7,600 lbs (3 447 kg) 7,300 lbs (3 311 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) Vehicle 2500 Series 2WD Extended Cab Standard Box HD (d) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 6.0L V8 3.73 4.10 10,200 lbs (4 627 kg) 12,700 lbs (5 761 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 2500 Series 2WD Crew Cab Standard Box HD (d) 6.0L V8 3.73 4.10 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 12,500 lbs (5 670 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 2500 Series 2WD Regular Cab Long Box HD (d) 6.0L V8 3.73 4.10 10,500 lbs (4 763 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 2500 Series 2WD Extended Cab Long Box HD (d) 6.0L V8 2500 Series 2WD Crew Cab Long Box HD (d) 6.0L V8 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 12,500 lbs (5 670 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 9,900 lbs (4 491 kg) 12,400 lbs (5 625 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 2500 Series 4WD Extended Cab Standard Box HD (d) 6.0L V8 3.73 4.10 9,900 lbs (4 491 kg) 12,400 lbs (5 625 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 2500 Series 4WD Crew Cab Standard Box HD (d) 6.0L V8 3.73 4.10 9,800 lbs (4 445 kg) 12,300 lbs (5 579 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 2500 Series 4WD Regular Cab Long Box HD (d) 6.0L V8 3.73 4.10 10,200 lbs (4 627 kg) 12,700 lbs (5 761 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 4-61 Vehicle 2500 Series 4WD Extended Cab Long Box HD (d) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 6.0L V8 2500 Series 4WD Crew Cab Long Box HD (d) 6.0L V8 3500 Series 2WD Extended Cab (e) 6.0L V8 (Single Rear Wheels) 6.0L V8 (Dual Rear Wheels) 3500 Series 2WD Crew Cab (e) 6.0L V8 (Single Rear Wheels) 6.0L V8 (Dual Rear Wheels) 3500 Series 4WD Regular Cab (e) 6.0L V8 (Single Rear Wheels) 6.0L V8 (Dual Rear Wheels) 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 9,800 lbs (4 445 kg) 12,300 lbs (5 579 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 9,600 lbs (4 355 kg) 12,100 lbs (5 489 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 9,900 lbs (4 491 kg) 12,400 lbs (5 625 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 12,200 lbs (5 534 kg) 9,300 lbs (4 218 kg) 11,800 lbs (5 352 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 12,500 lbs (5 670 kg) 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 12,200 lbs (5 534 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 4-62 Vehicle 3500 Series 4WD Extended Cab (e) 6.0L V8 (Single Rear Wheels) 6.0L V8 (Dual Rear Wheels) 3500 Series 4WD Crew Cab (e) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (a) 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 9,600 lbs (4 355 kg) 12,100 lbs (5 489 kg) 9,200 lbs (4 173 kg) 11,700 lbs (5 307 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 3.73 4.10 3.73 4.10 6.0L V8 (Dual Rear Wheels) 6.0L V8 (Single Rear Wheels) 9,400 lbs (4 264 kg) 11,900 lbs (5 398 kg) 9,100 lbs (4 128 kg) 11,600 lbs (5 262 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 18,500 lbs (8 391 kg) (a) 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 the vehicle should not be exceeded. (b) Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) maximum. (c) This model is neither designed nor intended to tow ﬁfth-wheel or gooseneck trailers. (d) Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,000 lbs (1 361 kg) maximum. (e) Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,500 lbs (1 587 kg) maximum. Ask your dealer/retailer for our trailering information or advice, or write us at our Customer Assistance Offices. See Customer Assistance Offices on page 7-6 for more information. 4-63 Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total gross weight of the vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo carried in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. If there are a lot of options, equipment, passengers or cargo in the vehicle, it will reduce the tongue weight the vehicle can carry, which will also reduce the trailer weight the vehicle can tow. If towing a trailer, the tongue load must be added to the GVW because the vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See for more information about the vehicle’s maximum load capacity. 4-64 The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight, up to a maximum of 600 lbs (272 kg) for the 1500 or 2500 series, and up to a maximum of 750 lbs (340 kg) for the 2500 HD or 3500 series with a weight carrying hitch. The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight, up to a maximum of 1,000 lbs (453 kg) for the 1500 series and up to a maximum of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) for the 2500, 2500 HD or 3500 series with a weight distributing hitch. Fifth wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 to 25 percent of the trailer weight up to the maximum amount speciﬁed in the trailering chart for the vehicle. See “Weight of the Trailer”, and “Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Trailering” in this section. Do not exceed the maximum allowable tongue weight for the vehicle. Choose the shortest hitch extension that will position the hitch ball closest to the vehicle. This will help reduce the effect of trailer tongue weight on the rear axle. After loading the trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they are not, adjustments might be made by moving some items around in the trailer. Trailering may be limited by the vehicle’s ability to carry tongue weight. Tongue weight cannot cause the vehicle to exceed the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) or the RGAWR (Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating). The effect of additional weight may reduce the trailering capacity more than the total of the additional weight. Consider the following example: A vehicle model base weight is 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg); 2,800 lbs (1 270 kg) at the front axle and 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg) at the rear axle. It has a GVWR of 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg), a RGAWR of 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) and a GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) of 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg). The trailer rating should be: Expect tongue weight to be at least 10 percent of trailer weight (850 lbs (386 kg)) and because the weight is applied well behind the rear axle, the effect on the rear axle is greater than just the weight itself, as much as 1.5 times as much. The weight at the rear axle could be 850 lbs (386 kg) X 1.5 = 1,275 lbs (578 kg). Since the rear axle already weighs 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg), adding 1,275 lbs (578 kg) brings the total to 3,975 lbs (1 803 kg). This is very close to, but within the limit for RGAWR as well. The vehicle is set to trailer up to 8,500 lbs (3 856 kg). 4-65 Since tongue weight is usually at least 10 percent of total loaded trailer weight, expect that the largest trailer the vehicle can properly handle is 6,000 lbs (2 721 kg). It is important that the vehicle does not exceed any of its ratings — GCWR, GVWR, RGAWR, Maximum Trailer Rating or Tongue Weight. The only way to be sure it is not exceeding any of these ratings is to weigh the vehicle and trailer. Total Weight on the Vehicle’s Tires Be sure the vehicle’s tires are inﬂated to the upper limit for cold tires. These numbers can be found on the Certiﬁcation label at the rear edge of the drivers door or see Loading the Vehicle on page 4-34 for more information. Make sure not to go over the GVW limit for the vehicle, or the GAWR, including the weight of the trailer tongue. If using a weight distributing hitch, make sure not to go over the rear axle limit before applying the weight distribution spring bars. If the vehicle has many options and there is a front seat passenger and two rear seat passengers with some luggage and gear in the vehicle as well. 300 lbs (136 kg) could be added to the front axle weight and 400 lbs (181 kg) to the rear axle weight. The vehicle now weighs: Weight is still below 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) and you might think 700 additional pounds (318 kg) should be subtracted from the trailering capacity to stay within GCWR limits. The maximum trailer would only be 7,800 lbs (3 538 kg). You may go further and think the tongue weight should be limited to less than 1,000 lbs (454 kg) to avoid exceeding GVWR. But the effect on the rear axle must still be considered. Because the rear axle now weighs 3,100 lbs (1 406 kg), 900 lbs (408 kg) can be put on the rear axle without exceeding RGAWR. The effect of tongue weight is about 1.5 times the actual weight. Dividing the 900 lbs (408 kg) by 1.5 leaves only 600 lbs (272 kg) of tongue weight that can be handled. 4-66 Hitches It is important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why the right hitch is needed. Weight-Distributing Hitches and Weight Carrying Hitches When using a weight-distributing hitch, the hitch must be adjusted so the distance (A) remains the same both before and after coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle. If a step-bumper hitch will be used, the bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there is ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper. If the loaded trailer being pulled will weigh more than 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg), 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 driving. Always use a sway control if the trailer will weigh more than these limits. Ask a hitch dealer about sway controls. A: Body to Ground Distance B: Front of Vehicle 4-67 Safety Chains Always attach chains between the vehicle and the 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. If the trailer being towed weighs up to 5,000 lbs (2 271 kg) with a factory-installed step bumper, safety chains may be attached to the attaching points on the bumper. If the trailer being towed weighs up to the vehicle’s trailer rating limit, safety chains may be attached to the attaching point on the hitch platform. Always leave just enough slack so the rig can turn. Never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck Trailering Fifth wheel and gooseneck trailers can be used with many pickup models. These trailers place a larger percentage of the weight (kingpin weight) on the tow vehicle than conventional trailers. Make sure this weight does not cause the vehicle to exceed GAWR or GVWR. Fifth wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 to 25 percent of the trailer weight up to the maximum amount speciﬁed in the trailering chart for the vehicle. See “Weight of the Trailer” in this section for more information. The hitch should be located in the pickup bed so that its centerline is over or slightly in front of the rear axle. Take care that it is not so far forward that it will contact the back of the cab in sharp turns. This is especially important for short box pickups. Trailer pin box extensions and sliding ﬁfth wheel hitch assemblies can help this condition. There should be at least six inches of clearance between the top of the pickup box and the bottom of the trailer shelf that extends over the box. Make sure the hitch is attached to the tow vehicle frame rails. Do not use the pickup box for support. 4-68 Tow/Haul Mode Pressing this button at the end of the shift lever turns on and off the tow/haul mode. This indicator light on the instrument panel cluster comes on when the tow/haul mode is on. Tow/Haul is a feature that assists when pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load. See Tow/Haul Mode on page 2-34 for more information. Tow/Haul is designed to be most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75 percent 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: (cid:129) When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load through rolling terrain. (cid:129) When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load in stop and go traffic. (cid:129) 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. 4-69 Trailer Brakes A loaded trailer that weighs more than 2,000 lbs (900 kg) needs to have its own brake system that is adequate for the weight of the trailer. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so they are installed, adjusted and maintained properly. If the vehicle is equipped with StabiliTrak®, the trailer cannot tap into the vehicle’s hydraulic brake system. The trailer brake system can tap into the vehicle’s hydraulic brake system only if: The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi (20 650 kPa) of pressure. The trailer’s brake system will use less than 0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of ﬂuid from the vehicle’s master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking systems will not work well or at all. 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. Use only steel brake tubing to make the tap. Integrated Trailer Brake Control System The vehicle may have an Integrated Trailer Brake Control (ITBC) system for electric trailer brakes. This symbol is located on the Trailer Brake Control Panel on vehicles with an Integrated Trailer Brake Control System. The power output to the trailer brakes is based on the amount of brake pressure being applied by the vehicle’s brake system. This available power output to the trailer brakes can be adjusted to a wide range of trailering situations.

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2009 GMC Sierra Owners Manual