GMC 2000 Automobile User Manual


 
4-33
The Tow/Haul Mode is most effective when the vehicle
and trailer combined weight is at least 75% of the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the maximum
trailer weight rating for the vehicle. See “Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating” and “Trailer Weight” in the Index.
The Tow/Haul Mode for hauling a heavy trailer is most
useful under the following conditions
When driving through hilly terrain at speeds below
55 mph (88 km/h).
When driving in low speed or stop and go traffic
below 55 mph (88 km/h).
When driving in parking lots.
Use the Tow/Haul Mode instead of the previous
recommendation to shift to THIRD (3) gear to improve
fuel economy at highway speeds and shift performance
at lower speeds. Operating in the Tow/Haul Mode when
not pulling a heavy trailer will not cause damage to the
vehicle, but you may experience reduced fuel economy
and undesirable performance from the engine and
transmission. The Tow/Haul Mode should be used
only when pulling a heavy trailer.
Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example,
speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and
how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all
important. And, it can also depend on any special
equipment that you have on your vehicle.
The following chart shows how much your trailer can
weigh, based upon your vehicle model and options.
Vehicle
Axle
Ratio Max. Trailer Wt.
Two
-Wheel Drive
3.23
3.42
3.73
5,100 lbs. (2 315 kg)
5,600 lbs. (2 542 kg)
6,000 lbs. (2 724 kg)
All
-Wheel Drive
3.42
3.73
5,300 lbs. (2 406 kg)
5,800 lbs. (2 633 kg)
Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming the
driver and one passenger are in the tow vehicle and it
has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of
additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in
the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum
trailer weight.