Newbie

[davidz71]

I'd also stay away from the 3.42 rear end ratio particularly with LT265-75-16 tires. Been there, done that!

[53flyingcloud]

Here's a decent site for used Suburbans..(I have no stake/interest in this site, just found it one day while surfin)
http://www.isuburbans.com/Default.htm
ciao

[Craig]

OK - the Suburban I found is a 1993 with the factory towing package which means it has the large radiator and transmission cooler, trailer and trailer brake wiring and the 4:11 rear.
With the 4:11 rear it's towing capacity is rated at 8400lbs. It also has the locking differential rear.

I know I'm pushing it, but what do you think for towing a 78 Excella 500 with GVWR of 8500??

[uwe]

Hi Craig,

I had no idea the Excella's are this heavy. I would definitely go with a 3/4 or 1 ton truck.
What engine is in the suburban? Which model transmission? I am pretty sure that the 3/4 ton GM trucks have a much heavier duty transmissions and the larger engines.
The tow capacity difference of a hundred pounds is probably not a problem, as long as you keep things lightly loaded. But you will not have any reserves for emergency handling or durability. your Suburban will be maxed out every time you tow. This translates into a negative ownership experience over time.
Just my opinion, Craig.

[InsideOut]

Here's the update I promised...

We made it to Albuquerque in one piece and with our sanity intact!

We LOVE the Yukon...it meets our need perfectly...up Raton Pass we only slowed to about 50 mph and the rest of the way we averaged 65 mph and got 12+ mpg overall. Towing was uneventful and the 7 hour drive with Mr.InsideOut (I-don't-like-roadtrips-until-I'm-there) was actually pleasant! Yipee! Gives us something to look forward to next season...getting ready to winterize this weekend.

Thanks again to all who posted advice that helped in our decision-making process

Shari

[davidz71]

Craig,
Your Excella 500 has a dry weight without factory options of around 5840 lbs. if I remember correctly. The 8500 lbs. is the max. with all cargo/equipment that the axles will stand. When I roll my loaded trailer with empty water/waste tanks but full 40 lb. alum. propane tanks onto the truck scales, it weighs 5680 lbs. with the equalizer hitch hooked up. I need to go back to the scales and weigh the entire trailer not hooked up to the truck.

[davidz71]

Craig,
Your '78 Excella 500 is pretty much the same weight as my '77 Excella 500 of the same length. My '92 K1500 4X4 with 5.7 engine, 5 speed manual trans and 3.42 rear end ratio was a dog with this trailer empty on any incline. It was terrible on hills and mountains. A 3.73 rear would have been better but even better would be the 4.11 and an auto transmission. You may get by if most of your travels are level but if you travel with a full fresh water tank and max the cargo out then it will be tough on your vehicle.

[donna01]

Towing question - I have looked at all the threads I can find on towing. Does anyone have experience with a Ford F-150? We have a 19' Flying Cloud (Bambi). Looks like the 4.6L 3-valve V8 may be powerful enough, but we're wondering if the 5.4L 3-Valve V8 would be optimal. Any suggestions are most appreciated.
D & G