SIERRA TRAILER-TOWING FEATURES:
• Automatic transmissions feature a Tow/Haul mode for improved
performance when towing.
• Four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with
Dynamic Rear Proportioning (DRP) adds a measure of safety
when braking, especially on slippery surfaces.
• Rear axles use a synthetic lubricant for lower operating
temperatures under heavy-load conditions.
• Large, cross-flow radiators with excellent airflow
characteristics keep things cool in extreme conditions.
• The Driver Information Centre (DIC) monitors both engine and
transmission temperatures and alerts the operator of any
problems before damage occurs. A dedicated transmission fluid
temperature gauge is available on 2500HD and 3500 models
that are equipped with an automatic transmission.
• Three-piece modular frame with a hydroformed front section
provides exceptional strength without unnecessary weight.
• Independent front suspension is used on all pickup models,
both two- and four-wheel drive, providing superior ride and
handling. Suspension packages are available for trailering.
• The Trailering Special Equipment Package includes a weight-
distributing hitch receiver, an electric brake control wiring
harness, as well as a trailer wiring 7-pin connector. Engine and
transmission coolers are included as required.
VORTECMAX PERFORMANCE PACKAGE
The VortecMAX Performance Package, (option NHT), adds an extra measure
of capability and toughness to selected 1500 series pickups. This Performance
Package provides a trailer rating of up to 4763 kg (10,500 lb.) with the all-new
Sierra 4x4 Extended and Crew Cab models. It’s available on 1500 2WD and 4x4
Extended Cab standard box and Crew Cab short box models and includes the
following equipment;
• Vortec 6.0L V8 engine that develops 345 hp and 380 lb.-ft. of torque and on the
all-new Sierra develops 367 hp and 375 lb.-ft. of torque
• Engine oil cooling system for extended engine life in severe service applications
• 4-speed super-duty automatic transmission (model 4L70E) with Tow/Haul mode
and an oil temperature sensor that will signal the DIC to display a “TRANSMISSION
HOT” message and also cause the transmission to enter a protection mode until
it cools down
FIFTH-WHEEL TRAILERING WITH SIERRA 1500 AND 1500HD PICKUPS —
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
GMC recommends that you specify a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive for your 1500 Series Sierra if
you plan to tow with it. Trailer ratings for vehicles equipped with a manual transmission are generally reduced as
shown below and on the GCWR chart on page 8. Note that the Vortec 4.3L V6 is the only engine currently available
with a manual transmission.
• Heavy-duty rear axle assembly with a 9.5 in. diameter ring gear similar to the
2500 models
• P265/70R17 On/Off Road tires including the spare
• Locking differential for superior traction
• Autotrac four-wheel drive system on 4x4 models
• Trailering Special Equipment that includes a weight-distributing platform trailer
hitch receiver, a heavy-duty 8-lead wiring harness with a 7-way sealed connector
and trailer brake control wiring harness plus extra capacity cooling and high-
capacity air cleaner
• Special identification on the doors and a Vortec engine cover label.
ENGINE/TRANSMISSION VORTEC 4.8L V8 VORTEC 5.3L V8 VORTEC 6.0L V8
MODEL Max. Trailer Axle Ratio Max. Trailer Axle Ratio Max. Trailer Axle Ratio
Weight, kg (lb.) Required Weight, kg (lb.) Required Weight, kg (lb.) Required
C15703 Regular Cab 2903 (6400) 3.23 3357 (7400) 3.23
Standard Box, 2WD 3357 (7400) 3.73 3810 (8400) 3.73
C15903 Regular Cab 2812 (6200) 3.23 3266 (7200) 3.23
Long Box, 2WD 3266 (7200) 3.73 3720 (8200) 3.73
C15753 Extended Cab 2676 (5900) 3.23 3084 (6800) 3.23
Standard Box, 2WD 3084 (6800) 3.73 3084 (6800) 3.73 3130 (6900)* 4.10
C15953 Extended Cab 2631 (5800) 3.23 3084 (6800) 3.23
Long Box, 2WD 3084 (6800) 3.73 3447 (7600) 3.73
C15743HD Crew Cab 3765 (8300) 3.73
Standard Box, 2WD 4672 (10,300) 4.10
K15703 Regular Cab 3220 (7100) 3.42/3.73 3311 (7300) 3.42/3.73
Standard Box, 4x4 3311 (7300) 4.10 3311 (7300) 4.10
K15903 Regular Cab 3130 (6900) 3.42/3.73 3583 (7900) 3.42/3.73
Long Box, 4x4 3583 (7900) 4.10 3765 (8300) 4.10
K15753 Extended Cab 3039 (6700) 3.42/3.73 3131 (6900) 3.42/3.73
Standard Box, 4x4 3130 (6900) 4.10 3131 (6900) 4.10
K15743HD Crew Cab 3583 (7900) 3.73
Standard Box, 4x4 4491 (9900) 4.10
*With optional VortecMAX Performance Package (NHT).
BALL HITCH TRAILERING WITH SIERRA 1500
PICKUPS — MANUAL TRANSMISSION
A 1500 Extended Cab with the available VortecMAX Performance
Package makes an ideal family tow vehicle. With a GVWR of up to
2903 kg (6400 lb.), a towing capacity of 4717 kg (10,400 lb.) on
2WD models and a 345-hp VortecMAX V8 engine, it can handle
most trailering duties with ease. Refer to the information on
page 8 for details.
ENGINE VORTEC 4.3L V6
MODEL Max. Trailer Axle Ratio
Weight, kg (lb.) Required
C15703 Regular Cab 1814 (4000) 3.23
Standard Box, 2WD
C15903 Regular Cab 1724 (3800) 3.23
Long Box, 2WD
K15703 Regular Cab 1860 (4100) 3.73
Standard Box, 4x4
K15903 Regular Cab 1814 (4000) 3.73
Long Box, 4x4
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