Is Air Suspension System Needed When Towing Trailer With 2010 Silverado Z71 4x4
Question:
I have a 2010 Silverado with a 5.3 L, 6 speed auto, with optional tow package, 3.42 rear gears, Z71 4x4 and a 800 to 1,200 LB Tongue/ 8,000 to 12,000 LB equalizing hitch. The truck is rated at 9,600 LB towing capacity as per factory specs. I have a electric trailer brake actuator installed but not set up. I will be pulling a 4,700 LB enclosed trailer with a 3,200 LB car inside. Two questions: Will I be able to pull this load safely at highway speed 100 kph/63 mph for a one way distance of 35 kilometers/22 miles? Will I need a rear air bag suspension kit Firestone/Airlift to level the truck? Your assistance is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
asked by: Allan
Helpful Expert Reply:
When you tow with your 2010 Chevrolet Silverado, there are a few things to consider. If a trailer weighs more than 50 percent of the towing vehicle's weight then weight distribution is recommended. If you are experiencing sag on your truck due to the trailer tongue weight then weight distribution would help with that as well. I have attached a helpful article that explains weight distribution you can check out.
Air bags are not designed to eliminate the sag due to a heavy trailer tongue weight. They are intended to help when heavy loads are placed in the bed of the truck. If the back of your truck is sagging when you place heavy loads in the bed you can use an air suspension system like the Firestone Ride-Rite systems to help. If you have a 1500 Series Silverado, I recommend part # F2430. If your Silverado is a 2500 or 3500 then part # F2250 is the air suspension system I recommend. Air bag systems are intended to be work with a suspension system that is in good working order, and will not increase the load carrying capacity of the truck. I have attached a link to a product review for the Firestone system you can take a look at.
It sounds like you may be okay with the weight capacity of your towing setup. If you are planning on towing quite a lot I recommend addressing the weight distribution. When recommending systems I recommend using sway control as well. Sway can be caused by passing traffic and high cross winds. Sway control helps keep the trailer steady and on the road.
If you are only going to be towing this once, I would not recommend spending a great deal of money on a system that will not be used.
Products Referenced in This Question
Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs - Double Convoluted - Rear Axle
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Air Springs
- Heavy Duty
- Firestone
more information >
Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs - Double Convoluted - Rear Axle
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Air Springs
- Heavy Duty
- Firestone
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 12K GTW, 1.2K TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1000 lbs
- 1100 lbs
- 700 lbs
- 800 lbs
- 900 lbs
- Reese
more information >
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on Weight Distribution Hitch
