Tonylmiller

I'm looking at buying the subject vehicle. I will be using it for towing and driving to work one or two days a week (10 miles). We have a 3,500 lb camper now, and might buy one that is 7,000 lbs or so in the future. The vehicle already has everything I need for towing, including a brake controller.

The maintenance records are mostly unknown except the water pump was replaced recently. If I get it for $6,500, I'm thinking I can afford to do a bit of preventive maintenance to improve reliability on towing trips. For example, I might go ahead and replace the fuel pump. I've seen where those tend to go out around this mileage range. What should that cost? Any other preventive recommendations, like rebuilding the transmission?

If I don't buy this one, I will probably get a 2WD model in the same mileage range.

I'm also wondering if the 4-wheel drive is good for towing. Will it make any difference? I don't really need the 4WD since I live in Alabama, unless I take it out in the mud.

What are your thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

intheburbs

The only thing 4wd does is eat into your GVWR and GCWR ratings by about 200 lbs.

Is it a 1500 or 2500? I towed a 6500-lb trailer with my '01 1500 Burb. I blew out the rear end twice, both while towing (and on vacation). I wouldn't recommend pulling a 7,000 lb trailer with a half ton. If it's a 2500, then it'll easily pull a 7,000-lb trailer.

That being said, my '01 just rolled 205k, and the original engine and transmission are still going strong.

If you're looking to tow the heavier trailer to the lake on a few weekends, you might be ok with a half-ton, but any long trips will likely cause problems with the rear axle.

If you have a mechanic do the fuel pump, it'll probably run $700-$800, since he has to drop the tank. Wait until the tank is almost empty before you take it in.

Tonylmiller

Thanks for the info. Is it feasible to install a 3/4 ton rear differential into a half ton Suburban?

73shark

Tony: Welcome to the forum. Good luck with your future purchase.

intheburbs

I don't believe so.

Pretty sure the mounting points of the 2500 axle don't line up with the frame of the 1500.

Secondly, you'd have two wheels with 6 lugs, and two wheels with 8 lugs. Major PITA to rotate or change a flat.

There are 2500s out there. You just have to look a little harder.

SWHouston

4x4 vehicles do not have the Load/Towing ratings as do 2WD's. That's because the additional front drive mechanism, adds additional weight to the vehicle, detracting from it's rating. But even at that, the 7000lb TT should not exceed your GTW, even if you don't have a Towing Package.

There are any number of recommendations which may be offered concerning repairs, but one thing I focus on when a new ride comes along, is the Lubs and Fluids.

It's normal practice for most uncaring people, to dismiss the need to change out those things when they know that they are going to get rid of the vehicle. Differentials and Transfer Cases are the most common to be overlooked or intentionally avoided.