Auto Parts Guy
Full Member
I'm back with more questions, more like opinions or assurance that I'm buying the right stuff. I'm looking to set up my Avalanche to be the best overall tow rig it can be for what it is.
Gearing:
I plan to regear my 3.73 axles to 4.88. I have an appointment on Monday the 10th with a local gear shop. I'm getting an Eaton Truetrac Locker installed to replace the G80 factory carrier at the same time. I plan to always run a 35" tire, but could range in the 33-37" range depending on how life changes. This will be the first automotive 'repair' that I haven't done myself in probably 15 years or more.. Something between a 4.10 and 4.56 puts me closer to stock, 4.88 gives me a little extra. That's my logic anyway. Thoughts? Would you recommend something different or additional while I'm doing this? MPG? Mehhh.. who cares with 8.1L of displacement.
Hitch:
Looks like the consensus is the Reese 45013 or the Draw-Tite 45515 or 41930 is the one to go with. I'll probably use the Class V with the 2" receiver, so the 41930. Truth is, I'll probably rarely tow over 6k pounds much less 10k. But i want the assurance and ability to safely hook to a trailer with a skid steer or mini ex or dump trailer. This truck will double as a family camping vehicle to pull a small camper 19-22' that i don't yet own. Question is, besides the 7-way plug, is this Draw-Tite 41930 a direct bolt on for the 2500 Avalanche, specifically 2004 model? No issue with the evap canister? Does my logic make sense or would you go with something else? All of my mating recievers are 2" so I didnt really want to run the adapter unless there is good reason to install the 2.5" class V. I will also buy a nice anti-sway system. Any tips or pics of your hitch installed? Any pics of your 7-way in the bumper? Sounds like a cool mod.
Air Springs:
This may come at a later date, but looks like many are happy with the firestone bag setup.
Brake Controller:
I have a Reese and Hopkins, so those are cheap enough to replace later if I don't like them.
Gearing:
I plan to regear my 3.73 axles to 4.88. I have an appointment on Monday the 10th with a local gear shop. I'm getting an Eaton Truetrac Locker installed to replace the G80 factory carrier at the same time. I plan to always run a 35" tire, but could range in the 33-37" range depending on how life changes. This will be the first automotive 'repair' that I haven't done myself in probably 15 years or more.. Something between a 4.10 and 4.56 puts me closer to stock, 4.88 gives me a little extra. That's my logic anyway. Thoughts? Would you recommend something different or additional while I'm doing this? MPG? Mehhh.. who cares with 8.1L of displacement.
Hitch:
Looks like the consensus is the Reese 45013 or the Draw-Tite 45515 or 41930 is the one to go with. I'll probably use the Class V with the 2" receiver, so the 41930. Truth is, I'll probably rarely tow over 6k pounds much less 10k. But i want the assurance and ability to safely hook to a trailer with a skid steer or mini ex or dump trailer. This truck will double as a family camping vehicle to pull a small camper 19-22' that i don't yet own. Question is, besides the 7-way plug, is this Draw-Tite 41930 a direct bolt on for the 2500 Avalanche, specifically 2004 model? No issue with the evap canister? Does my logic make sense or would you go with something else? All of my mating recievers are 2" so I didnt really want to run the adapter unless there is good reason to install the 2.5" class V. I will also buy a nice anti-sway system. Any tips or pics of your hitch installed? Any pics of your 7-way in the bumper? Sounds like a cool mod.
Air Springs:
This may come at a later date, but looks like many are happy with the firestone bag setup.
Brake Controller:
I have a Reese and Hopkins, so those are cheap enough to replace later if I don't like them.
Last edited: