Towed the boat for the first time...

mrjulian416 · March 18, 2021

So I picked up my '21 SLT CCSB 2500 Gas in Feb. My boat has been at the dealer since Dec for a variety of first-year warranty punch list items (if you ever have a choice between a Lewmar windlass and a plain old anchor locker, go with the plain old anchor locker). Went to pick up the boat yesterday which was the first time towing it with the new truck. This is a 25' center console, boat and trailer are right at 8k total weight.

My previous tow vehicle was my '00 SLE 1500. This boat/trailer is right at the stated capacity for my old truck and "you knew it" when pulling. Always had to stay well to the right on the highway, no more than about 63-65 mph even in 70-zones, dropping to 55-60 on uphills, and when it needed the extra grunt to climb a hill it was kicking down to 2nd gear and revving to 5k unless I backed off a bit. I added Timbrens (which were amazing in how much stability they provided) and had to rebuild the 4L60e last spring at 205k miles, I'm sure due to asking the ol' man to work a little too hard for his age.

So yesterday in the new truck, this should be no surprise. Backed up to the hitch first try using the cameras. Dropped it on the ball, made the connections, used "guest trailer" (no time to measure things for a custom profile in the dealer parking lot), tested the lights, put it in tow/haul and pulled out for the 45 mile trip home on state routes and interstates. Set the cruise at 5 over the speed limit, let the truck do its thing, I listen to the radio. Pass the slow traffic when I roll up on them. It was that simple.

When it had to rev and/or shift it was totally smooth... I mean like totally smooth. I knew it had shifted, but I didn't feel it in the seat. I never noticed it running above 4k to maintain 75mph on uphills. Yes, I knew the boat was back there from the handling/feel of things, but when merging onto freeways, it was about like not having it back there other than the higher rpms when accelerating. The ride home is essentially uphill, 45 miles total. 6.7mpg... trans temp stayed right at 190F the whole time.

So yep, I've proven to myself that a new 3/4 ton tows much better than an old half-ton... shocking I know. I guess I'm just saying the 6.6 gas and 6 speed does a very nice job. I did not notice the "shudder" some people are feeling when towing. I'm at just over 1800 total miles. Bottom line, happy with my choice, diesel not required for my needs.

jsward12 · March 18, 2021

This is great, I had a 15 SLT 1500 towing a 33 ft TT. I too had timbrens which were a much needed upgrade but the truck was at its limit. I towed the camper for 1 mile the other day after I adjusted the hitch and in just that little sample I cant believe I ever towed my camper with the 1500....