I am trying to find the towing capacity for our new Chevy C1500 1997 4.3L V6 WT? manual trans.

One reason id that I have a rather large camper trailer, 36', doubt it can handle it, it would only be for one move for 100kms, but I really doubt it could do it.

please avoid making fun of me, new to trucks so I have little concept of what she can handle.

 

I want to buy a hitch for it, not sure if I need a weight distributor, depends on how much I can haul. I don't have to owners manual so i can;t look it up.

 

Get the VIN number and click on this link...
VIN Decoder - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy Enthusiasts Forums

Type that in and click, then...
Look for the number that follows "GTW" (Gross Towing Weight).
Lots of other nice info there too.

Keep in mind that most Rec Rigs put about 15% of their total weight on the Tongue/Hitch, so you need to take that into consideration on the "GVW" (Gross Vehicle Weight).

Have a safe trip !

PS:
"Make fun of You"... I don't think so !
I for one, appreciate someone who is concerned enough about their vehicle, and how it's safely and legally operated, and applaud your interest in that. The objective of this Forum, is to make the under informed, into the well informed.

Remember one thing...
The only stupid question is, the one which goes un-asked !