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Pampered-Z · 04-11-2007, 08:01 PM

I have a 99 Sierra ext cab, 5.3 with the Z71 and tow package ( T- package has a switch that sets the trans for higher RPM shifts and firmer shifts and also has oil cooler and 3:73 gears). My truck came prewired for the brake controller and the fuse box under the hood has all the slots for the extra fuses for the trailer lights.) All I had to do was plug in the controller to the port under the dash and put in the fuses. I 'm not certain if this is on all trucks or part of the tow package?

I tow my 93 camaro with an 18' open trailer. The 5.3 is fine on the open highway going 65MPH. It does struggle a little on the big hills, but I don't push it hard on them. I tow 6-10 times a year, about 2,000 miles towing yearly.

Currently I have 140,000 miles on the truck and I drive it about 300-500 miles a week. On the highway get about 20 MPG highway with the cruise set at 70MPH. When towing I get about 13-15MPG.

If you plan on doing allot of long distant towing then I would say diesel, but I think the 5.3 will be fine.

John

04-11-2007, 08:01 PM	#12
Pampered-Z Sliderule / Moderator Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Catawissa PA Posts: 2,294 iTrader: (1)	I have a 99 Sierra ext cab, 5.3 with the Z71 and tow package ( T- package has a switch that sets the trans for higher RPM shifts and firmer shifts and also has oil cooler and 3:73 gears). My truck came prewired for the brake controller and the fuse box under the hood has all the slots for the extra fuses for the trailer lights.) All I had to do was plug in the controller to the port under the dash and put in the fuses. I 'm not certain if this is on all trucks or part of the tow package? I tow my 93 camaro with an 18' open trailer. The 5.3 is fine on the open highway going 65MPH. It does struggle a little on the big hills, but I don't push it hard on them. I tow 6-10 times a year, about 2,000 miles towing yearly. Currently I have 140,000 miles on the truck and I drive it about 300-500 miles a week. On the highway get about 20 MPG highway with the cruise set at 70MPH. When towing I get about 13-15MPG. If you plan on doing allot of long distant towing then I would say diesel, but I think the 5.3 will be fine. John __________________ 93Z M6 Black: The 385 Lives! Supercharged, 3-core front mount intercooler, GTP heads, 3:73's, Street twin clutch, Jethot Longtubes, Mufflex 4" catback/spintech, S+W cage, Spohn Suspenion, Yada Yada Yada 1) Build it 2) Race it 3) Break it 4) Repeat!!! Last edited by Pampered-Z; 04-11-2007 at 08:06 PM.