Re: [A/S] Tow vehicles

["David Crook" <blackbamboo@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Thomas,

Here is a little personal opinion stuff from a Sub owner . . . Lucy and I
are on our fourth one.  Our last one was a 1986 half ton 6.2 diesel with
overdrive.  We pull a 27' Overlander full of food, water and all kinds of
outdoor gear.  Typically we have at least two sea kayaks on the roof of the
Sub, as well as a Vision recumbent tandem.

NOTE:  Both trucks are equipped with the same Reese weight distributing
hitch with friction control.

1986 1500 Chevy Suburban 6.2L diesel: Flowmaster duel exhaust, K&N air
filter.
130,000 miles

Cruising speed, (towing) flat ground, 60 mph.
Overdrive off.
Couldn't run A/C or engine overheated. (we live in south Florida).  Big
problem.
Passing ability - impossible
MPG 13 - 15 while towing
Very soft cushy ride.  No sway at all.

1999 2500 Chevy Suburban 7.4L Vortec, SFI, stock exhaust, K&N air filter.
58,000 miles

Cruising speed, (towing) flat ground, 70 mph.
Overdrive on (per owners manual)
Front and rear A/C on max engine temp. 200 (normal range)
Passing ability - incredible.  We pass others while we are towing up hill
MPG 10 - 13 while towing
Stiffer suspension - bumpier ride.  Still very comfortable. No sway at all.

I will buy another 3/4 ton SUB with the same setup, in two years.  IT WILL
BE 4WD. I have already been stuck and required a tow on a muddy Florida
campground road.  Very inconvenient and embarrassing. This is the last tow
vehicle we will own without 4WD

David Crook
Fort Myers, FL