Tow Vehicle Modifications
[Vern M.] Modifications other than what you list? First would be the right sized auxillary transmission oil cooler. Note "right sized" for your engine. Ask GM.
Second would be adequately sized and installed wiring for the 12 volts to trailer and trailer brake and light controls. Have it measured at the plug for current capability. A properly equipped RV modifier can do that.
Third are adequate tires with load ratings to match your GCVW and load per axle. Did you know the rear axle itself has a never-exceed load rating? It's all in th manual and/or available from GM customer relations. Not the dealer in many places, but always from corporate customer relations.
The rear axle gear ratio may be a factor. We have a GM Conversion van with 3:42-1 rear end. We pull a 24 foot Jayco Eagle with no problem but would have more acceleration and hill climbing power with lower ratio. GM, however, advised against changing it saying that other things are relative and it is not a good idea to tinker here.
And, always pull in high, never overdrive! That's in the manual too.
Service such as oil, radiator fluid, transmission and rear axle fluid changaes, comes more frequent with pulling too. Read up and do as it says and you likely will have no problems. We have more than 90,000 miles on the van now and have pulled three trailers of increased size and weight and are quite pleased with the combination.
Enjoy!
Vern M.
The Little House on the Highway (tm)
www.runningriver.com/modeland/littlehouse.htm
