Towing Capacity Help

[bchamb3]

Ok, if I am asking this in the wrong place, then please direct me to the right place. I also apologize for beating a dead horse.

I have a 1968 GMC Suburban. 1500 1/2 ton with the stock rear end. It is a 12 bolt and I believe I have the 3.07 gears. I am trying to find out the towing capacity of this rear end. (Camping World wants to know this before helping me set up my rig for towing)

I have a 6.0 LS motor and 4l80e tranny. Disc brakes in the front.

I am just trying to get an idea for what my capabilities would be for towing.

Thanks, again!

[Average Joe]

This question has been asked before, but I am not sure if there was really a definitive answer in regard to factory published numbers. It sounds like your drive train has been upgraded anyhow.

HD rear coils or air bags in the rear will help substantially if you plan on towing a trailer with much tongue weight. A good quality WD hitch and brake controller are a must as well.

I tow a 26' TT that weighs 5500 dry with my '67. I also have 3.07 gears but the BB torque seems to help. I run Dominator 2600 bags in place of my rear coils. I personally would not want to tow anything larger behind it. IMO 24' or less is 1/2 ton territory. Larger is 3/4 ton or 1 ton country. Lets just say I have a little too much trailer for my set up, but I make it work.

[Alex V.]

This should give spring rates, axle capacities, etc. - I was floored by how much info there was here when I found it.

https://www.gmheritagecenter.com/doc...olet-Truck.pdf

[bchamb3]

Wow! Alex V. That is just what I was looking for! You are the man! There is a ton of information there, what a great resource.

So, according to this manual, it looks like the manufacturer's recommended towing capacity of my setup is only 3500lbs.

I wonder if I do like everyone is suggesting and beef up rear suspension, get trailer brakes installed, maybe a special hitch setup? if I could tow a 5000lb trailer? Chances are, I won't be towing often. But, when I do I want to do it right.