I bought a 2000 Silverado new. 4wd auto z71 w/ tow package. 1500 5.3l v8
I am about to buy a camp trailer to tow with my truck
My research shows I can safely tow up to 8500
I will not go any where near that. No way.
My trailer camper is 4200 lbs dry 5800 max GVW It has a 500 lb tongue weight dry

I plan on adding a weight distributing hitch (WDH) for added safety
I am looking at the solid rod hitch for better sway control as opposed to the chains

First question - can anyone confirm that my trailer weight and hitch choice is well within reason and safe for this truck or add any suggestions?

Next questions - I have the brake controller harness that came with the truck. From my research it appears all I have to do is plug it into the junction box under the dash and into the already installed brake controller and my already installed 7 pole plug socket will activate the electric trailer breaks on the trailer? I cant find anywhere that confirms I already have the brake controller under the dash? I have also seen that I may have to add a fuse to the fuse box?

Is there any reason not to leave the break harness plugged it into the junction box under the dash and into the brake controller when I am not towing? Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

5800 lb's is a pretty good chunk for a 1500 ,id say no more for for for long hauls .
weight distribution hitch is a must .
i am not sure on your description ,solid bar or chains .
i prefer the trunnion bar style in 10,000 lb capacity .
you can leave the harness installed all the time .
more than likely if you cant see the controller affixed under the dash and still have the factory plug in harness it is not installed .

 

Thanks
I see that i may be on the wrong forum
Plenty of reads but only you were kind enough to answer
thanks

Best go find an RV forum
With the tow package (Z82) 4wd auto trans and Z71 suspension they rate the truck at 8500... i think they are dreaming and setting some one up for a wreck
if my wife dont load the camper with rocks, i am probably under 5000 and with a weight distributing anti sway hitch i am thinking i am good to go thanks for reading and replying

 

no problem ! if you go conservative you will be safer .