weight GMC YUKON 2004 Owner's Guide

The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the
total allowable weight of the completely loaded
vehicle and trailer including any passengers, cargo,
equipment and conversions. The GCWR for your vehicle
should not be exceeded.
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or
advice, or you can write us at the address listed in
your Warranty and Owner Assistance Information
Booklet.
In Canada, write to:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight
to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of
your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes
the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in
it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. If you
have a lot of options, equipment, passengers or cargo in
your vehicle, it will reduce the tongue weight your vehicle
can carry, which will also reduce the trailer weight your
vehicle can tow. And if you will tow a trailer, you must add
the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be
carrying that weight, too. See Loading Your Vehicle for
more information about your vehicle’s maximum load
capacity.The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to
15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight, up to a
maximum or 600 lbs. (272 kg) for the 1500 series, and up
to a maximum of 600 lbs. (272 kg) for the 2500 series
with a weight carrying hitch. The trailer tongue weight (A)
should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded
trailer weight, up to a maximum of 1,000 lbs.(453 kg) for
the 1500 series and up to a maximum of 1,500 lbs.
(680 kg) for the 2500 series with a weight
distributing hitch.
4-68

Do not exceed the maximum allowable tongue weight
for your vehicle. Choose the shortest hitch extension
that will position the hitch ball closest to the vehicle. This
will help reduce the effect of trailer tongue weight on
the rear axle.
After you have loaded the trailer, weigh the trailer and
then the tongue separately, to see if the weights
are proper. If they are not, you may be able to get them
right by moving some items around in the trailer.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires
Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inated to the upper limit
for cold tires. You’ll nd these numbers on the
Certication label at the rear edge of the driver’s door or
see Loading Your Vehicle for more information. Then
be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle,
or the GAWR, including the weight of the trailer
tongue. If you use a weight distributing hitch, make sure
you don’t go over the rear axle limit before you apply
the weight distribution spring bars.
Hitches
It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are
a few reasons why you will need the right hitch.
Weight Distributing Hitches and Weight
Carrying Hitches
When using a weight-distributing hitch, the hitch must
be adjusted so the distance (A) remains the same both
before and after coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle.
If you use a step-bumper hitch, the bumper could
be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there is ample
room when turning to avoid contact between the
trailer and the bumper.(A) Body to Ground Distance (B) Front of Vehicle
4-69

If you will be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg) be sure to use a
properly mounted weight-distributing hitch and sway
control of the proper size. This equipment is very
important for proper vehicle loading and good handling
when driving. Always use a sway control if the trailer
will weigh more than these limits. You can ask a
hitch dealer about sway controls.
Safety Chains
You should always attach safety chains between your
vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains
under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue
from contacting the road if it becomes separated from
the hitch.
If you are towing a trailer up to 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg) with
a factory-installed step bumper, you may attach the
safety chains to the attaching points on the bumper. If
you are towing a trailer up to your vehicle’s trailer rating
limit, you may attach the safety chains to the attaching
point on the hitch platform. If you are towing with
an aftermarket hitch, following the trailer or hitch
manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety
chains. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn
with your rig. Never allow safety chains to drag on
the ground.
Trailer Brakes
If your trailer weighs more than 2,000 lbs. (900 kg)
loaded, then it needs its own brakes – and they must be
adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions
for the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install,
adjust and maintain them properly.
If your vehicle is equipped with Stabilitrak
®, your trailer
cannot tap into the vehicle’s hydraulic brake system.
Your trailer brake system can tap into the vehicle’s
hydraulic brake system only if:
The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi
(20 650 kPa) of pressure.
The trailer’s brake system will use less than
0.02 cubic inches (0.3 cc) of uid from your vehicle’s
master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking systems
won’t work well. You could even lose your brakes.
If everything checks out this far, make the brake tap at
the port on the master cylinder that sends the uid
to the rear brakes. But don’t use copper tubing for this.
If you do, it will bend and nally break off. Use steel
brake tubing.
4-70

Driving with a Trailer
{CAUTION:
If you have a rear-most window open and you
pull a trailer with your vehicle, carbon
monoxide (CO) could come into your vehicle.
You can not see or smell CO. It can cause
unconsciousness or death. SeeEngine
Exhaust on page 2-42. To maximize your safety
when towing a trailer:
Have your exhaust system inspected for
leaks, and make necessary repairs before
starting on your trip.
Keep the rear-most windows closed.
If exhaust does come into your vehicle
through a window in the rear or another
opening, drive with your front, main
heating or cooling system on and with the
fan on any speed. This will bring fresh,
outside air into your vehicle. Do not use
the climate control setting for maximum air
because it only recirculates the air inside
your vehicle. SeeClimate Control System
on page 3-22.Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get
to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer.
And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are
driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as
responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check all trailer hitch parts and
attachments, safety chains, electrical connector, lamps,
tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric
brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then
apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure
the brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the
load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer
brakes are still working.
4-71

Tire Terminology and Denitions
Air Pressure:The amount of air inside the tire pressing
outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure
is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) or
kilopascal (kPa).
Accessory Weight:This means the combined weight
of optional accessories. Some examples of optional
accessories are, automatic transmission, power steering,
power brakes, power windows, power seats, and air
conditioning.
Aspect Ratio:The relationship of a tire’s height to
its width.
Belt:A rubber coated layer of cords that is located
between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made
from steel or other reinforcing materials.
Bead:The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by
steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.
Bias Ply Tire:A pneumatic tire in which the plies are
laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the
centerline of the tread.Cold Ination Pressure:The amount of air pressure in
a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or
kilopascals (kPa) before a tire has built up heat
from driving. SeeInation - Tire Pressure on page 5-72.
Curb Weight:This means the weight of a motor
vehicle with standard and optional equipment including
the maximum capacity of fuel, oil and coolant, but
without passengers and cargo.
DOT Markings:A code molded into the sidewall of a
tire signifying that the tire is in compliance with the U.S.
Department of Transportation motor vehicle safety
standards. The DOT code includes the Tire Identication
Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator which can
also identify the tire manufacturer, production plant,
brand and date of production.
GVWR:Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, seeLoading
Your Vehicle on page 4-56.
GAWR FRT:Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front
axle, seeLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-56.
GAWR RR:Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle,
seeLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-56.
5-69

Intended Outboard Sidewall:The side of an
asymmetrical tire, that must always face outward when
mounted on a vehicle.
Kilopascal (kPa):The metric unit for air pressure.
There are 6.9 kPa’s to one psi.
Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire:A tire used on light duty
trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles.
Load Index:An assigned number ranging from 1 to 279
that corresponds to the load carrying capacity of a tire.
Maximum Ination Pressure:The maximum air
pressure to which a cold tire may be inated. The
maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall.
Maximum Load Rating:The load rating for a tire at the
maximum permissible ination pressure for that tire.
Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight:The sum of curb
weight; accessory weight; vehicle capacity weight;
and production options weight.
Normal Occupant Weight:The number of occupants a
vehicle is designed to seat multiplied by 150 pounds
(68 kg). SeeLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-56.Occupant Distribution:Designated seating positions.
Outward Facing Sidewall:The side of a asymmetrical
tire that has a particular side that faces outward
when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire that
contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears
manufacturer, brand and or model name molding that is
higher or deeper than the same moldings on the
other sidewall of the tire.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire:A tire used on passenger
cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose
vehicles.
Recommended Ination Pressure:Vehicle
manufacturer’s recommended tire ination pressure and
shown on the tire placard. SeeInation - Tire Pressure
on page 5-72andLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-56.
Radial Ply tire:A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords
that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the
centerline of the tread.
Rim:A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire
beads are seated.
5-70

Sidewall:The portion of a tire between the tread and
the bead.
Speed Rating:An alphanumeric code assigned to a
tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire
can operate.
Traction:The friction between the tire and the road
surface. The amount of grip provided.
Tread:The portion of a tire that comes into contact
with the road.
Treadwear Indicators:Narrow bands, sometimes
called “wear bars,” that show across the tread of a tire
when only 2/32 inch of tread remains. SeeWhen It
Is Time for New Tires on page 5-77.UTQGS:Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards, a tire
information system that provides consumers with ratings
for a tire’s traction, temperature and treadwear. Ratings
are determined by tire manufacturers using government
testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the
sidewall of the tire. SeeUniform Tire Quality Grading on
page 5-79.
Vehicle Capacity Weight:The number of designated
seating positions multiplied by 150 lbs. (68 kg) plus
the rated cargo load. SeeLoading Your Vehicle
on page 4-56.
Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire:Load on an
individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight,
occupant weight and cargo weight.
Vehicle Placard:A label permanently attached to a
vehicle showing the original equipment tire size
and recommended ination pressure. SeeLoading Your
Vehicle on page 4-56.
5-71

Tire Size.......................................................5-67
Tire Terminology and Denitions........................5-69
Tires.............................................................5-63
Buying New Tires........................................5-78
Chains.......................................................5-82
Changing a Flat Tire....................................5-84
If a Tire Goes Flat.......................................5-83
Ination - Tire Pressure................................5-72
Inspection and Rotation................................5-76
Pressure Monitor System..............................5-73
Spare Tire................................................5-102
Uniform Tire Quality Grading.........................5-79
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance.................5-80
Wheel Replacement.....................................5-81
When It Is Time for New Tires......................5-77
Entering or Exiting the Third Row Seats.............. 1-8
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater....................2-24
Top Strap......................................................1-55
Top Strap Anchor Location...............................1-57
Torque Lock...................................................2-40
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires..................4-69
Tow/Haul Mode...............................................2-28
Tow/Haul Mode Light.......................................3-56
Towing
Recreational Vehicle.....................................4-53
Towing a Trailer..........................................4-63
Your Vehicle...............................................4-53Traction
Assist System (TAS)...................................... 4-9
Off Light.....................................................3-48
Stabilitrak
®System......................................4-11
TRACTION ACTIVE........................................3-76
Traction Control Operation................................4-12
TRACTION SYS LIMITED................................3-77
Trailer
Recommendations.......................................4-62
Trailer Brakes.................................................4-70
Trailer Wiring Harness.....................................4-75
Transfer Case........................................5-51, 5-53
Transmission
Fluid, Automatic...........................................5-23
Temperature Gage.......................................3-49
TRANSMISSION HOT.....................................3-76
Transmission Operation, Automatic....................2-24
Transmission, Transaxle, Transfer Case Unit
Repair Manual............................................7-12
Transportation Options...................................... 7-8
Traveling to Remote Areas...............................4-26
Trip Information Button....................................3-59
Trip Odometer................................................3-42
Turn and Lane Change Signals.......................... 3-8
TURN SIGNAL ON.........................................3-77
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever........................... 3-8
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer..................4-72
16

U
Underhood Fuse Block...................................5-117
Understanding Radio Reception.......................3-137
Uniform Tire Quality Grading............................5-79
United States................................................... 7-4
Used Replacement Wheels..............................5-82
Using Cleaner on Fabric................................5-104
Using HomeLink
®...........................................2-58
Using Song List Mode...................................3-120
Using the Recovery Hooks...............................4-51
V
Vehicle
Control........................................................ 4-5
Damage Warnings........................................... iv
Loading......................................................4-56
Symbols......................................................... iv
Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data Records . 7-10
Vehicle Identication
Number (VIN)............................................5-112
Service Parts Identication Label..................5-112
Vehicle Personalization
Memory Seat..............................................2-64
Vehicle Storage..............................................5-44
Video Screen................................................3-126
Visors...........................................................2-17
Voltmeter Gage..............................................3-45
W
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators................3-40
Warnings
DIC Warnings and Messages........................3-70
Hazard Warning Flashers............................... 3-6
Other Warning Devices.................................. 3-7
Safety and Symbols......................................... iii
Vehicle Damage.............................................. iv
Washing Your Vehicle....................................5-107
Weight Distributing Hitches and Weight
Carrying Hitches..........................................4-69
Weight of the Trailer........................................4-65
Weight of the Trailer Tongue.............................4-68
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use........................5-17
What to Add..................................................5-42
What to Do with Used Oil................................5-20
What to Use..........................5-26, 5-39, 5-40, 5-52
Wheels
Alignment and Tire Balance..........................5-80
Replacement...............................................5-81
When to Add Engine Oil..................................5-17
When to Change Engine Oil (GM Oil
Life System)...............................................5-19
When to Check..............................................5-72
When to Check and Change............................5-23
When to Check Lubricant.................................5-52
When to Check Power Steering Fluid................5-39
17