• If you currently own, previously owned or want to own an Avalanche, we welcome you to become a member today. Membership is FREE, register now!

2009 LT Avalanche vs 2003 z71 Avalanche towing capacity

guttersnipes199

Full Member
Joined
Dec 29, 2014
Messages
78
Hi, I just purchased a 2009 LT Avy and wanted to know if I can pull the same travel trailer with the 2009, as I did with the 2003 Avy. I saw towing specs for the 2003 and it stated towing capacity range was 7,900 lbs to 12,000 lbs, but I've also seen towing capacity for the 2009 as 5,000 lbs to 5,500 lbs. Are those specs correct? The trailer I have is about 26-27 ft, Jayco Jay flight SLX 267BHSW with a slide out.
 
The tow rating you list for a 2003 is the range for a 2500 model. Did you previously own a heavy-duty 2500 version? Since GM discontinued that and only offered a 1500 model for 2007+ you wouldn't be able to match it.

To determine what your particular truck can tow is based on whether it is 2WD or 4WD, if it's a 5.3L or 6.0L engine and what the rear axle ratio is. Do you have sales info for your Avalanche? If not, you can always determine these things from the RPO codes printed in the glove box.

That super low ~5000lbs rating is based on the "super fuel efficient" 3.08 rear axle ratio. That particular base rear axle kills the tow rating. If you have the 5.3L with a 3.73 rear axle ratio then your towing is roughly 7000lbs.
 
Check the Resources section on this website for owner's manuals and specs on each year. My guess that the large weight spread you have for the 2003 model year includes the 8.1 2500 AV as well as the 5.3 1500 AV.  Specs will vary not only between models but final gear ratios too. ex. 3.42 gear tows less than a 3.73 or a 4.10.....you also need the loaded weight of your trailer to see if you exceed the recommended safe towing limit not to exceed the max for safety cushion, some say don't exceed 80-90 percent of max.
 
Info on your trailer based on first post from Google search.


Dry Weight

5,515 lbs.

Payload Capacity

1,985 lbs.

GVWR

7,500 lbs.

Hitch Weight

665 lbs.
 
To find RPO codes for your 2009 look here:
http://www.chevyavalanchefanclub.com/cafcna/index.php?topic=96887.msg1536768;topicseen#msg1536768
 
Back
Top