Is the Chevy Suburban Max Tow Package Really Necessary?
Chevrolet Forum member is looking to buy a used Chevy Suburban to tow a trailer, but he needs your help!
These days, trucks and SUVs are more capable than ever when it comes to towing. We’re seeing some pretty amazing max tow and payload ratings, and not just on vehicles equipped with the best possible configurations for accomplishing those tasks. So you can’t really blame Chevrolet Forum member Bate Family for wondering recently if they could possibly forgo the max trailering package on his prospective Suburban purchase and still get away with pulling a big trailer.
“I am planning on getting a 2-year-old Suburban this year. All the ones I am seeing have a 3.08 axle ratio. I can’t find one with a max tow package or a 3.42 axle ratio. It seems like I have to buy new to get the 3.42 ratio. But I would have to spend $15,000 or so more just to get it. My question is it worth it? I plan to get a travel trailer that weighs about 6,000 lbs. With my family and some equipment, my load will be about 7,500 lbs. Am I really going to regret not having the 3.42 axle ratio?”
While it is certainly possible to tow that kind of load with a 3.08-geared Chevy Suburban, oilcanhenry points out the various pitfalls of that particular choice.
“Seems funny, but I think a 3.08 axle ratio would get WORSE gas mileage while towing. In fact, I would like Chevy/GM to offer a 3.55 ratio option. Also put an air-cooler in there for your automatic. It will last much longer if you do, along with more frequent oil changes. And no, spending $15k for a the difference in ratios is too expensive.”
He then goes into a little more detail explaining why a numerically lower (higher) ratio isn’t an optimal choice here.
“Your transmission will be under a heavy load so the fluid will get very hot. Thus, the air-cooler will help keep the temps down. The transmission cooler in the radiator will not be enough. Also, keeping it out of overdrive on flats and upgrades. You could use it fine on a downhill grade to save some fuel. And you have to have trailer brakes over a certain weight or GVWR.”
Fellow member intheburbs concurs, and believes that this choice of Chevy Suburban might not be a great fit for the OP’s needs.
“7,500 lbs is a lot of trailer for a half-ton Suburban. Too much, in my opinion. You’ll likely be over on your rear axle weight and your payload. If you’re planning short trips, it might not be a problem. But if you intend to do cross-country treks, you might want to buy a heavier-duty tow vehicle.”
All of this sounds like solid advice. But we’re curious to hear what you think. So head over to the thread and tell us if a 3.08 or even 3.42-geared Chevy Suburban is capable of towing a decent load. And if you’ve got experience towing with either, your input would be greatly appreciated by the OP and anyone else looking to do the same!
Photos: Chevrolet Forum
