Trailer Hitch and GCWR for 2017 AWD Chevy Traverse

Question:

Dry weight on my 16.5foot boat and Motor is 1185#. Can the 2017 AWD traverse with 3.6 engine safely tow this. And what constitutes a Factory towing package, Just the correct Hitch and wiring Harness?

asked by: Paul T

Helpful Expert Reply:

I took a look at an online version of the owner's manual for a 2017 Chevy Traverse and it says that for an AWD without the V92 Trailer Towing Package the maximum trailer weight is 2,000 lbs and the GCWR is 7,700 lbs (GCWR is the total weight of the trailer, trailer cargo, Traverse and Traverse cargo including passengers - essentially the weight of everything).

If you do have the V92 Trailer Towing Package the maximum trailer weight is 5,200 lbs and the GCWR is 10,450 lbs. So it would be close if you do not have the towing package but if you do have that package it seems likely you would be fine in regards to towing, though you need to verify your weights. As for the factory towing package, when I googled it for your vehicle it looks like it means the vehicle comes with a factory hitch and upgraded cooling system. This is something that is an option so you would know if you purchased it with the vehicle. Otherwise you can contact your local Chevy dealer with your VIN and they can tell you.

For a trailer hitch a great option is the Curt # 13424 because of their reputation for making high-quality trailer hitches and the fact it is a complete bolt-on install without drilling into your '17 Traverse's frame required. This is a Class III, 2 inch hitch with a 6,000 lb towing capacity and 600 lb tongue weight capacity, which is the highest available for your vehicle. For trailer wiring if you do NOT have the tow package you can use Vehicle Wiring Harness # HM11141150.

I have added a link to a video install of this hitch on a '17 Traverse as well as a link to a video install of the wiring harness for you to check out.

expert reply by: Kyle S