Towing recommendations

OcalaPapa · 01-10-2016, 09:56 AM

We plan to buy a Funfinder 214 WSD this spring (GVWR 6075lb.). We are looking at a 2016 GMC Canyon Crew Cab, Short Box with 3.6L V6 DI DOHC engine 2WD and the towing package. It is rated for 7000lbs by GMC.

Will that configuration for towing the Funfinder?

The last time I towed a trailer was with a F250 many years ago, and do not want to repeat the hard stiff ride that went with that kind of truck.

Thanks.

OcalaPapa

Eagle · 01-10-2016, 10:10 AM

Not familiar with the GMN 3.6L motor but seems a bit underpowered IMO...depending on the differential gear ratio.

I have a 355 ratio but a lower ratio would be better in the mountains.

OcalaPapa · 01-10-2016, 11:08 AM

The model that I am looking at has a 3.42 rearend with a locking differential, if that makes any difference.

gmw photographics · 01-10-2016, 12:14 PM

I have rather serious doubts you will like that match up. That trailer is solidly in the class of Silerado 1500/ Ford F150 class.

OcalaPapa · 01-10-2016, 01:22 PM

Thanks. I appreciate your input. I will re-think this combo.

Eagle · 01-10-2016, 01:46 PM

For towing, a lower differential ratio in or near the 4.00 range is best.

The dealership salesperson 'should' be able to help with your selection when you tell him your use plans and what you will be towing.

gmw photographics · 01-11-2016, 10:25 AM

A little further on that, if a person wants a crew cab Colorado, I believe the only axle ratio available is 3.42. If you want the 4.10 gears, only the "extended cab" has that gear. It could be you could special order it though. A guess would be "that is doubtful".

The biggest problem you'd run into with this truck and the proposed trailer is you would likely exceed the trucks payload capacity.

runner421 · 01-11-2016, 07:13 PM

Agree that rear axle gear ratio is important, much depends on how you intend to tow. Ocalapapa? I'm guessing Florida? A couple of weekend trips to the nearby campgrounds, flat and easy interstate, secondary roads. Maybe that will work.

Longer trips, cross several states, hills/mountain ranges? Strong head or side winds, might need more truck.

As for Fords, the F-series has come a long way in the last few years. In ride, accessories, comfort, power. Test drive them all-Chevy, Ford, GMC, whatever your preference.

looking4fun · 01-14-2016, 08:49 PM

I tow a 189fbd with a 2011 1500 silverado and I love it. I literally forget its behind me at times. My uncle has the same truck and he tows a 25ft (bumper to tounge) non funfinder camper. No wdh or trailer brake control (against my recomendations) and he says he bearly even notices it's back there. And he really packs his truck and camper on his hunting/camping trips. I have the towing package on my truck. Rear diff is 3.45 gear ratio. After a certain year the g80 rear axles need a certain aftermarket spacer to run a 4.10 gear ratio. IMO get a full size pick up with no smaller then a 5.3 liter motor and towing package.