I just bought a 19 Tahoe 5.3 with a tow package. I assume it’s not the MAX tow package. If not, what is my max towing capacity? Can I upgrade to the MAX trailer package if I chose to?

 

Depends whether you have the 3.08 rear or the 3.42 rear.

page 285 of your owners manual

 

I have a 2018 Suburban Premier without the max tow package (i.e., 3.08 rear and single speed transfer case). The max tow package would include a 3.42 rear and 2-speed transfer case. I have been told by multiple dealers and a couple local transmission shops that I cannot change the ring and pin in the differentials since the computers in the truck would not work correctly (since they are programmed to work with the 3.08 differentials (front and rear 4x4) and single speed transfer case). With that said, I believe the only differences between the "regular" tow package and the "max" are (1) 3.42 vs 3.08 differentials, (2) 2-speed transfer case vs single speed, and (3) integrated brake controller. The last is easy to add an aftermarket controller. But the first two cannot be solved (I have been told). Everything else is the same - frame, engine (5.3L), trans cooler, engine oil cooler, brakes, etc.

 

There are tuners out there that can reprogram gear ratios in the computer. How do you think they put massive tires on a Silverado. Issue is the expense of gear change, coolers, reprogram, etc. vs trading for a Sub that has all you need provided your trailer isn't pushing to the limit when you would really need a 2500 pickup.

 

Repairman54 - yes completely agree. I just haven't found a turner that knows how or is willing to do it. I do translate "it can't be done" to mean "I don't know how to do it."

 

I would source a 4x4 shop for a tuner, they would have the most experience with that.