Towing C10..... what do I need ?

[Tusky]

Originally Posted by greg64

My C10 has a six cylinder that makes all of about 120 HP. I can pull trailers fine, I'm just slow on big uphill climbs. With 400 HP, I'd be worried about cooling that engine more then "will it pull the load?".

Just wondering what motor you running Greg?
Posted via Mobile Device

[greg64]

Originally Posted by Tusky

Just wondering what motor you running Greg?
Posted via Mobile Device

I'm running a 292 six. My truck was stock with a 250. The 250 is fine too, and gets better mileage than the 292. But the 292 has more grunt. The 250 was leaking more oil than the Exxon Valdez, so instead of fixing the 250, I found and rebuilt a 292 while the 250 was still running.

The two engines make similar horsepower, because they can't rev, at least in stock form. The 292 is built like a tank internally, though. These engines had to be able to stand up to 4000 RPM at full throttle for most of the day, in the medium duty trucks.

[MalibuSSwagon]

Honestly, I was sold on the 5.3L after using my Dad's 2000 Z71 shortbed to do some towing. Plenty of power to move cars on a 16 ft trailer. Now I'm replacing the old tired 305 with a 5.3L.

Another note, check the condition of the rear springs and replace them if they look questionable. Mine were cracked at the eyelets on the main leafs after a few years of towing. I ended up replacing them with some heavy duty springs.

[greg64]

Originally Posted by MalibuSSwagon

Honestly, I was sold on the 5.3L after using my Dad's 2000 Z71 shortbed to do some towing. Plenty of power to move cars on a 16 ft trailer. Now I'm replacing the old tired 305 with a 5.3L.

Another note, check the condition of the rear springs and replace them if they look questionable. Mine were cracked at the eyelets on the main leafs after a few years of towing. I ended up replacing them with some heavy duty springs.

I'd certainly agree that the 5.3 is a significant upgrade from a 305.

I'll echo the "check the leaf springs" thought. I replaced mine last year. They were totally clapped out, and 3 non-main leaves were broken on the driver's side. The truck now carries heavy loads a lot better too.