wheel GMC SIERRA 2006 Owners Manual

Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR
K-2500 Extended Cab Short Box HD (4WD)*
6000 V8 4.10 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
8100 V83.73
4.1012,000 lbs (5 443 kg)
12,000 lbs (5 443 kg)20,000 lbs (9 072 kg)
22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
*Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up
to 3,000 lbs (1 361 kg) maximum.
Fifth-wheel or gooseneck GCWR for 6.6L V8 Diesel 2500 HD series models is 23,200 lbs (10 523 kg).
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR
K-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (4WD)*
6000 V8 4.10 9,900 lbs (4 490 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
8100 V83.73
4.1012,000 lbs (5 443 kg)
12,000 lbs (5 443 kg)20,000 lbs (9 072 kg)
22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
K-2500 Crew Cab Short Box HD (4WD)*
6000 V8 4.10 9,800 lbs (4 445 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
8100 V83.73
4.1012,000 lbs (5 443 kg)
12,000 lbs (5 443 kg)20,000 lbs (9 072 kg)
22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
*Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up
to 3,000 lbs (1 361 kg) maximum.
4-78

Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR
K-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (4WD)
6000 V8 4.10 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
8100 V83.73
4.1012,000 lbs (5 443 kg)
12,000 lbs (5 443 kg)20,000 lbs (9 072 kg)
22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
* Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,000 lbs
(1 361 kg) maximum.
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR
C-3500 Extended Cab (2WD)
6000 V8 4.10 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
8100 V8 4.10 12,000 lbs (5 543 kg)** 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel (Manual) 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 543 kg)** 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel (Auto) 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
C-3500 Crew Cab (2WD)*
6000 V8 4.10 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
8100 V8 4.10 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg)** 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel (Manual) 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg)** 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel (Auto) 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
*Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up
to 3,500 lbs (1 587 kg) maximum.
** Limited to 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) with weight distributing hitch.
4-79

Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR
K-3500 Regular Cab (4WD)
6000 V8 Dual Rear
Wheel4.10 9,800 lbs (4 445 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
6000 V8 Single Rear
Wheel4.10 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
8100 V8 Dual Rear
Wheel4.10 15,400 lbs (6 985 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
8100 V8 Single Rear
Wheel4.10 15,600 lbs (7 067 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Dual Rear
Wheel (Auto)3.73 16,700 lbs (7 575 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
6.6L V8 Dual Rear
Wheel (Manual)3.73 16,700 lbs (7 575 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
6.6L V8 Single Rear
Wheel3.73 15,400 lbs (6 985 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
4-80

Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR
K-3500 Extended Cab (4WD)*
6000 V8 Dual Rear
Wheel4.10 9,400 lbs (4 264 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
6000 V8 Single Rear
Wheel4.10 9,600 lbs (4 354 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg)
8100 V8 Dual Rear
Wheel4.10 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
8100 V8 Single Rear
Wheel4.10 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel Dual
Rear Wheel (Manual)3.73 16,300 lbs (7 394 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel Dual
Rear Wheel (Auto)3.73 16,300 lbs (7 394 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel Single
Rear Wheel3.73 15,000 lbs (6 804 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
* Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up
to 3,500 lbs (1 587 kg) maximum.
Fifth-wheel or gooseneck GCWR for 6.6L V8 Diesel 3500 SRW series models is 23,200 lbs (10 523 kg).
4-81

Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR
K-3500 Crew Cab (4WD)*
6000 V8 Dual Rear
Wheel4.10 9,200 lbs (4 173 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 264 kg)
6000 V8 Single Rear
Wheel4.10 9,400 lbs (4 264 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 264 kg)
8100 V8 Dual Rear
Wheel4.10 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
8100 V8 Single Rear
Wheel4.10 12,000 lbs (5 443kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel Single
Rear Wheel (Auto)3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel Single
Rear Wheel (Manual)3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel Dual
Rear Wheel (Auto)3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
6.6L V8 Diesel Dual
Rear Wheel (Manual)3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg)
*Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up
to 3,500 lbs (1 587 kg) maximum.
Fifth-wheel or gooseneck GCWR for 6.6L V8 Diesel 3500 SRW series models is 23,200 lbs (10 523 kg).
4-82

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 Communications 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. SeeLoading Your Vehicle on
page 4-48for 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 of 600 lbs (272 kg) for the 1500 or 2500 series,
and up to a maximum of 750 lbs (340 kg) for the 2500 HD
or 3500 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, 2500 HD
or 3500 series with a weight distributing hitch.
Fifth wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 to
25 percent of the trailer weight up to the maximum
amount specied in the trailering chart for your vehicle.
See “Weight of the Trailer”, and “Fifth-Wheel and
Gooseneck Trailering” in this section.
4-83

Weight Distributing Hitches and Weight
Carrying Hitches
A:Body to Ground Distance
B:Front of Vehicle
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.
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.
Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck Trailering
Notice:Pulling a fth-wheel trailer with a vehicle
that is equipped with the SS trim package could
damage the vehicle. Do not pull a fth-wheel trailer
with a vehicle equipped with the SS trim package.
Fifth wheel and gooseneck trailers can be used with
many pickup models. These trailers place a larger
percentage of the weight (kingpin weight) on the tow
vehicle than conventional trailers. Make sure this weight
does not cause the vehicle to exceed GAWR or GVWR.
4-86

Fifth wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be
15 to 25 percent of the trailer weight up to the maximum
amount specied in the trailering chart for your vehicle.
See “Weight of the Trailer” in this section for more
information.
The hitch should be located in the pickup bed so that its
centerline is over or slightly in front of the rear axle. Take
care that it is not so far forward that it will contact the back
of the cab in sharp turns. This is especially important for
short box pickups. Trailer pin box extensions and sliding
fth wheel hitch assemblies can help this condition. There
should be at least six inches of clearance between the top
of the pickup box and the bottom of the trailer shelf that
extends over the box.
Make sure the hitch is attached to the tow vehicle frame
rails. Do not use the pickup box for support.Safety Chains
You should always attach 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.
Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the
hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. If you
are towing a trailer up to 5,000 lbs (2 271 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
follow 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.
4-87

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.
While towing a trailer or when exposed to long periods
of sunshine, the oor of the truck bed may become very
warm. Avoid putting items in the truck bed that might be
affected by high ambient temperatures.Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you
would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can
help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and
sudden turns.
Passing
You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when
you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good
deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond
the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.
Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand
to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your
hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible,
have someone guide you.
4-89

Parking on Hills
{CAUTION:
You really should not park your vehicle, with
a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes
wrong, your rig could start to move. People
can be injured, and both your vehicle and the
trailer can be damaged.
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s
how to do it:
1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into
PARK (P) yet for an automatic transmission,
or into gear for a manual transmission.
2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer
wheels.
3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the
regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.
4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your
parking brake and shift into PARK (P) for an
automatic transmission, or REVERSE (R) for
a manual transmission.
5. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure the
transfer case is in a drive gear and not in NEUTRAL.
6. Release the regular brakes.
{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if
the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake rmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
If you have left the engine running, the vehicle
can move suddenly. You or others could be
injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move,
even when you are on fairly level ground, use
the steps that follow.
Always put the shift lever fully in PARK (P) with
the parking brake rmly set.
If the transfer case on four-wheel-drive vehicles
is in NEUTRAL, your vehicle will be free to roll,
even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be
sure the transfer case is in a drive gear — not
in NEUTRAL.
4-91