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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => 73-87 Chevy & GMC Trucks => Topic started by: SUX2BU99 on April 29, 2010, 01:49:00 pm
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It seems finding out published numbers for our trucks isn't easy. Apparently GM didn't publish numbers back in the day in the owners manuals. Instead they referred people to see their dealer. Odd. Anyway, anybody know where I could find this out? This is how my truck is configured. Maybe somebody has a similar one they know the towing capacity of:
1981 C10 1/2-ton shortbox 2wd
350 (5.7) engine
TH350 trans
3.40 gearing
heavy-duty rear brakes (bigger drums)
trans cooler
I'm initially surprised whenever I see Suburbans having higher tow ratings than trucks because they are so much heavier, you would think it would be that much harder for it to pull anything. But I guess it's the longer length and heavier weight that makes them more stable, eh?
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My dad has a similar year Blazer configured like your truck other than it being 4 wheel drive and he tows a 5000 lb. travel trailer without issue. With your setup, the biggest issue will probably be sway due to the short wheel base however, a Hensley or Pull-Rite hitch would dramatically improve stability. Tires with heavy sidewalls also improve stability as well. The next issue would be the transmission heating up if you are going to pull any long grades. A tranny cooler helps but I would also monitor the temperatures with a temperature gauge. Without a lock up torque converter, these trannies can heat up quickly.