1991 V2500 for towing a trailer

[77c10diesel]

I am selling my 1 ton truck and looking to get a Suburban to do some adventure camping and travel in. I know I need to get a 3/4 and I really want a 4wd so I can venture off the beaten path. I want to use it on forest service roads, go to ghost towns, and camp in the back country. So, 4wd is a must.
Here is where I need the help. I am looking at a nice 1991 V2500 and it is the Gas engine. From what I can see by looking at the GM Heritage site, the specs for this truck put the max towing at 7500lbs. My trailer, in the link below, is at 8000lbs maxed out. I do have a weight distribution hitch. https://www.campingworld.com/eaz-lift-recurve-r3-hitches-with-one-bolt-sway-control--1000-lb.-tongue-weight-85057.html
What I need to know is what can I do to allow the safe towing of this trailer. I only tow it 1-3 times a year and not very far due to the cost to do so, but I want to do it safely.
I am also looking at a 88 V2500 Diesel, would it be better or worse?


https://www.rvusa.com/rv-guide/2017-keystone-bullet-travel-trailer-floorplan-30repr-tr29396

[roundhouse]

Have you weighed your trailer so you KNOW what the weight is ?

[Deercreekfarm]

I would personally go with the diesel over the gas for towing.

[Irish_Alley]

personally i love diesels that being said the 6.2 was pretty gutless without a turbo and they never came factory with one. but you can put one on and wake her up but them you cant really put that much boost to the 6.2 or even the 6.5 like you can the cummins 

[Deercreekfarm]

I’ve owned 7 suburbans everything from an 85 to 2007 and out of all those my favorites were the 6.2L Diesels. That’s the whole reason I purchased my new 91, I missed the 6.2......

They are in no way power houses, not for hot rodding or mudding or rolling coal but if you’re looking for a dependable engine that can tow a boat or equipment trailer and get you to where you’re going, then the 6.2L is the engine. Not to mention the 23 mpg !!!!!

Maintenance is a breeze and parts are plentiful. Maybe I’m biased because my first Diesel was a 6.2L but they are a joy to drive. When i was in my 20’s it was all about the horse power and 0/60 times but in my 50’s i want something i enjoy driving, dependable and will definitely get me to where I’m going. But in the end you need to decide which one best fits your needs.  Good luck in your search.

[Irish_Alley]

you can add a turbo to the 6.2 to wake it up a little also