View Full Version : GMC Trucks
I just purchased a 2001 GMC Sierra Ext. Cab 4X4 in the beginning of October. I have the 4.8 Liter engine which makes 270HP. I've only towed my boat a few hundred miles with it, but boy does it run great! I have a smaller 16 1/2 ft Lund Rebel. I would imagine the total weight of the boat and motor is around 1600lb when including gear.
My question is this: I've read all the posts on the Dodge Truck question on this website and can't seem to understand why so many people are having troubles towing rigs which don't weight much more than mine? I realize there is a significant difference in weight, however I'm not even using 30% of my vehicles towing capicity.
Anyway, which truck is the best and most reliable for towing?
My vote has always been GMC, but then again I've had terrible luck with Mopar and think the Ford has very poor styling.
Oh well, look forward to hearing from everyone.
Also, if you have any towing tips I would love to hear them.
Later,
NC
Neal/CO
10-16-2001, 11:54 AM
Glad to hear you are pleased with your truck, because I bought a Silverado with the same package five months ago, but haven't towed anything yet. I love my truck and am very pleased with gas mileage I am getting, which is 20 mpg on the highway and 15 in the city.
I don't believe there are any newer "BAD" trucks out there. You will find supporters and detractors for any brand of tow vehicle. My towing experience has been gained over 20 years and a few basics should be employed by anyone towing a trailer.
1) Your stopping distance will be greater. 2) Watch your mirrors so you can see how the trailer is following. 3) Check your trailer tires and bearings at each fuel stop for signs of overheating.
4) Have the trailer tow package installed ( Trans- oil cooler, class 3/4 hitch, wiring hookups, bigger battery, etc.) 5) Watch your engine temp. gauge often. 6) Keep clean engine oil in the engine of the tow vehicle and change it often if you tow a heavy rig ( 3500 lbs or greater)
Good fishing!
NC: I too have a 2000 GMC Yukon and pull my 25' SportCRAFT with it. I think the weight of it is around 6000/7000 lbs. I have had no problems what so ever. Mileage is down to about 10/12 mpg, but I drive pulling at the posted, 55/65/70, and then some too. I travel to LOTW, Superior, and Lake Mich from either Mpls or Sturgeon Lk. so I get a fair amount of road time in. Never had a control problem either with the trailer. The other posts have good points to remember and should be followed. This is my third Yukon as I put on about 40M miles per year, boy am I glad thew price of gas is down, hope it lasts. Good luck towing and Good luck FISHING....Kaz
Thanks for your input. I haven't towed much with my truck, but what I have towed has gone very well. The base V8 which is a 4.8 Liter makes 270HP according to the website and that is more than enough to tow most boats. Haven't had the truck long enough to check gas mileage but I think my dad's truck gets roughly 15/19 mpg for city and highway driving.
Good luck with the truck!
when the warranty runs out! Any new truck is great so report back after the 2004 fishing season and let us know. By the way I drive a 2001 Silverado so I'll do the same.
Skeeter
10-17-2001, 02:42 PM
I am looking for a 2000 GMC Z71 Pewter color loaded. Anyone know of a dealer that has one with an email address let me know. Thanks in advance.
Have a 95 GMC extended cab 4x4 110000 mi. been out of warranty for years, never any warranty work or any repairs. Still looks great too, best vehicle ever owned. I cannot bring myself to trade it in.
I own a 2001 4X4 GMC extended cab pickup with the towing package and 5.3 vortec motor. Wow, what a truck . Pull a 99 1850 Sportfish with it. Great gas mileage flawlwess operation and super smooth ride. I test drove the Fords and Dodges. I like the ride a lot better in the GMC than the others. Can't go wrong with the GMC.