State48_AZ

Just bought a 2017 Express 3500 Extended (6.0 Gas; 3.42 ratio) van from auction and want to figure out what I need to prioritize for all the suggested necessary items for an excellent towing experience (Wiring Harness, brake controller, hitch (Class 4 or 5?), transmission cooler?, shocks, etc.)

What are some of the must-have towing upgrades you couldn't live without?

I live in Arizona, have hot summers, and regularly have to ascend into the mountains (AZ, UT, WY, CO).

Also, looking at getting one of the following trailers:
-7750# (empty); Hideout 31BRD; (tongue to bumper) 36'
-7220# (empty); Salem 30 QBSS; (tongue to Bumper) 34'

Would I be pushing it too much with the 7750# + Cargo trailer?

Thanks for your input everyone.

tech2

what engine trans and rear axle ratio you got?

State48_AZ

It’s a 6.0 V8 with 3.42 axle ratio.

6 speed transmission ( not sure how to check specifics on tranny)

tech2

4.10 rear axle ratio is pretty amazing. if you tow heavy and want the van to have *****.

og52

I easily pull a 7300# Airstream with my 2015 3500 window van. Same powertrain. Go to Etrailer.com. Get the biggest hitch they offer.
If the van doesn't have the trailer package you'll have to run all new wiring for the brake controller, and trailer lighting.
There are two different fuse boxes used under the drivers seat and under the hood. Trailer package and no trailer package.
I added a small Blue Seas fuse panel under the hood for everything.

State48_AZ

Awesome! Have you driven it at altitude or up steep grades out west at all?

og52

Mostly around SoCa/San Diego area. Going to Wyoming this June to give it the long distance over the Rockies and thru the woods test. Pulled the trailer to Yellowstone two years ago with my 1/2 ton Silverado without any problem. Since the van has 50 more HP, 4 wheel disc brakes, a better transmission, a 3000 weight rating and 10,000 pound towing it shouldn't have any problem either.
The hitch is rated at 16,000#. 17,000 WD
I also bought a set of electric 4500 mirrors that enable me to see down the sides of the silver bullet and I converted the interior for weekend camping when I don't need the trailer.

og52

I added Bilstein shocks, front and rear and with a load, it rides like a Cadillac.
11-11.5 MPG with trailer at 55-60 mph. 18-20 mpg without trailer at 65-70 mph. On SoCal freeways.
Going in for its 100K Service (currently 88k miles) before I go to Wyoming. I'll be adding a HD trans cooler at that time.

State48_AZ

Great suggestions. Love the conversion as well! We’re headed to SLC, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone Late June-Mid July. So hoping to get everything buttoned up and ready for that trip.

I was thinking of adding an additional Aux trans cooler before the trip.

Do you think the shocks are necessary? Did it make a huge difference?

Craig0320

Buy hptuners and turn torque management down and turn pe on. Wakes stock chevy engines up for towing.