What is the towing capacity for 85-90 4x4 Suburban or Chevy truck?

Answer 1

The best place to look would be in the owner's manual. But if you do not have a manual keep reading. The towing capacity of a vehicle is dependent on a few factors. The first is the suspension system, the second is the vehicle weight, the third is the drivetrain capability (engine power, transmission strength, axle gera ratio and strength). A stiffer suspension will allow more tongue weight while stlil providing safe handling characteristics, a heavier vehicle will resist forces from the trailer. A stronger drivetrain can provide and handle more power. If any of these items are worn-out or compromised, your safe towing capacity is also effected. Do not confuse "payload" (what a truck can haul in its bed) with towing capacity. The term "half-ton" truck refers to payload. (In the old days a "half-ton" truck could hold half a ton (1000 pounds) in its bed, today's half-ton trucks can hold much more.)Although a truck with a higher payload capacity will probably have a higher towing capacity, do not think a half-ton truck can only tow 1000 pounds. Many modern half ton trucks are rated to tow between 7,500 and 10,000 pounds. I own a 1990, 1500 Chevy Suburban with a 3.73 differential and it is rated to tow approximately 9200 lbs. I probably would never go above 9000 to be safe. Remember to always tow in DRIVE. NEVER TOW IN OVERDRIVE. The Chevy Truck/Suburban manuals from 1985-1990 tell you to pull in Overdrive but that is false. I have an 89 Suburban 2500 (3/4 ton) with 4.10 gears. It is also rated to tow around 9000 punds.