mtp9302
6/3/2008 6:51:17 AM
Hi all,
I couldn't find a similar question in the forums, sorry if it exists and I didn't see it (this is my first post). I have a 2006 Uplander LT with the 3.5L engine and without the towing package, so it is rated to pull 2000 lbs. I am told that the towing package will increase the towing capacity to 3500 lbs, so I am trying to find out what exactly is in the tow package that causes this (by the way, I know that load leveling/rear air compressor and rear A/C units are prerequisite options to have the tow package. My van does have both of these).
My problem is that I cannot find anyone that can tell me what exactly is in the towing package that allows me to tow that extra 1500 lbs. I have done internet research, I have asked the dealer I bought the van from, I have called Chevrolet and asked the question to them several times, and I have even asked around at work as well (I work for GM Fuel Cell Activities in Honeoye Falls, NY). No one can tell me what is in the tow package. I have some guesses though:
- transmission cooler
- radiator from 3.9L engine (tech at the dealer was able to tell me that the radiators to the 3.5L and 3.9L engines are different P/Ns, so I'm making the assumption that the 3.9L must be bigger to reject more heat).
I believe that all Uplanders with the 3.9L engine are rated to tow 3500, so that's why I'm banking on the radiator (if the 3.5L model can be configured to do that, there must be some plug-in part like that). I want to tow a pop-up camper that has a dry weight of 2500 lbs and a gross vehicle weight of 3500 lbs. If I cannot find out what the towing package is, I'm thinking about "making my own" by using the two items above plus a performance chip.
If anyone knows anything about this or has ideas where I can turn to for help, I would be very grateful for any advice. Thanks
