Pulling power...
 

I have a 2011 1500 Z71 with a 5.3L engine. I just recently ordered a bass boat. Just a 17 foot fiberglass one. Was mainly wondering if I could something to help my truck pull the boat a little easier. I mainly wont be towing it far. The farthest lake that I will go to regularly may be 1.5 or 2 hours away. But thought I would maybe just try to get a little more pulling power out of the truck. I have looked at cold air intakes but from what I have read on forums it seems like they don't do anything for you unless your running way up in your RPMs all the time. So im just looking for suggestions. There may not be much I can do but figured id ask. Not looking to put a ton of money in upgrading my truck. Have heard of the electronic chips you can add but don't know if I want to go that route yet. Thanks for any help though!

what is the weight of the trailer and boat?

your right about cai systems. total waste.

According to the boat manufacturing's website the total package weight is 2500 pounds. Maybe just a little more once I get all my fishing stuff inside. haha ive got quite a bit.

you shouldn't need anything. it will pull that no problem.

What is the truck's rear end ratio and does it have the trailering package. If not, I'd add an axillary trans cooler. They are about 100$ plus install.

What towing problems have people had?

No problems that I know of I just wanted to make sure I would strain my truck too damn hard by pulling it with it being pretty well bare stock besides the flowmaster exhaust I put on. As far as the gear ratio and trailering package, I don't know the ratio at this time and im embarrassed to admit but i'd have to check if it has the package. When I went to our local dealer in 2011 I was looking to buy a bare bones new work truck. No powered locks or windows. Then they called me back the next day and said they had this truck on the lot and wanted me to look at it so I did and fell in love and it was only a 1000 more than a work truck. haha didn't ask questions. It does have a trans cooler though for sure because I have noticed it before.

5.3 or 4.8? Gear ratio can be found in the glove box but with a 6 speed transmission you probably have 3.08s or 3.23s. Maybe 3.42s if you're lucky. Should pull it no problem but don't use cruise control, if you want a lil more power do a custom tune, not a electronic chip or programmer.