Greeting to all,
My wife and I are new to this web site and new to towing a camper trailer. We recently purchased a 1987 34’ Avion triple axle (I know not AS but she is in great shape, was not too expensive and resembles an AS). We are now researching towing vehicles. I have a few questions concerning the Suburban. If you have owned one, towed with one, or know anyone who has, please give us your feedback.
Due to the size and weight (when loaded) of our camper, I wonder is the GMC 1500 is sufficient as our puller? Is anyone here pulling with a 1500 350? If you do, do you think the 350 is adequate? Those of you with the 1500/350, what mileage do you get when you tow and what weight are you towing? What is the gear ratio in your rear end? How does it perform on grades? Do you add any aftermarket products to your Suburban to increase performance?
I am leaning towards buying a 99ish 2500 (3/4 ton) 4X4 with a 454 engine in it. I feel that it is better to have more than enough engine than to overburden a smaller power plant. My wife is concerned about the mileage we will get with the larger engine. I am making a guess that the 454 2500 will get about 9-10MPG towing and the 1500 350 will get about 11-13. Am I way off mark here? I would try to find a unit that has the 4.10 gear ratio. Do you think that the 3.73 would be better/just as good?
When we travel will have both LP tanks full and plan to carry at least 1/3 a tank of fresh water. Along with bikes, food and other gear I project our trailer to weight about 9000 pounds ready to camp. Empty weight is 6650. With this in mind, does anyone feel a 1500 will do the job nicely? Would you feel better in the 2500?
We live in the DFW area and plan on towing through the mountains of Arkansas sometimes but mostly will be Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana. The reason I add this bit of info is so you will know we will not be towing on major grades as often.
My wife has also suggested we consider a ¾ ton van. Any feedback here from Van users? I know most only have the small block. Does anyone have an opinion here?
If you have or know of a clean tow vehicle that would be great for a family with young children, please let us know about it. We are shopping now and hope to find that perfect vehicle within the next 30-40 days.
I want to thank you for taking the time to respond.
Philip, Pamela, Marshall & ??? (trying for number 2 now, wish us luck)
And a few dogs
phildickson@nas-cargo.com