2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 can tow up to 12,200 pounds when properly equipped.

Quick Answer: 2019 Silverado 1500 Towing Specs

• Maximum Towing Capacity: 12,200 lbs
• Maximum Payload Capacity: 2,543 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 6,800 to 7,300 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 12,800 to 17,800 lbs
• Curb Weight: 4,257 to 5,008 lbs
• Hitch Receiver: Class IV

Tow Ratings by Engine & Drivetrain

The 2019 Silverado 1500 offers several engine and configuration choices, which significantly impact its towing capabilities. All ratings are SAE J2807 compliant. Always confirm the specific ratings for your truck on the driver's side door jamb sticker.

Tow Package Contents

To achieve the maximum advertised towing capacities, the 2019 Silverado 1500 must be equipped with the available Max Trailering Package. This package builds on the standard trailering equipment, adding crucial hardware for serious hauling.

Standard Trailering Package Includes:

• Trailer hitch platform and 2-inch receiver
• 4-pin and 7-pin connectors
• Automatic locking rear differential
• Hitch Guidance (a centerline on the backup camera)

Max Trailering Package Adds:

• Enhanced cooling radiator
• Revised shock tuning
• Heavier-duty rear springs
• Increased Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
• 9.76-inch rear axle
• 3.42 or 3.73 axle ratio (depending on configuration)
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller

An Integrated Trailer Brake Controller is a must-have for towing heavy trailers with electric brakes. It is standard with the Max Trailering Package and available as an option on most trims.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck Towing

The half-ton Silverado 1500 is not designed for or rated for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These towing methods are reserved for the Heavy Duty (HD) Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD models, which have the frame, suspension, and axle strength to support the heavy pin weight of these trailers inside the truck bed.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

A Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is essential for safe towing, especially for heavier loads. For the 2019 Silverado 1500, Chevrolet recommends using a WDH for any trailer weighing over 7,000 pounds.

A WDH helps to level the truck and trailer by distributing a portion of the trailer's tongue weight from the rear axle of the truck to the front axle and the trailer's axles. This improves steering control, braking, and overall stability. Without a WDH, the heavy tongue weight can lift the front wheels, reducing traction and causing the trailer to sway uncontrollably.

Proper tongue weight is also critical—it should be 10-15% of the total loaded trailer weight. For a 10,000-pound trailer, that means a tongue weight of 1,000 to 1,500 pounds on the hitch.

Real-World Towing Tips for This Vehicle

• Use Tow/Haul Mode: This mode adjusts transmission shift points, holding gears longer to prevent hunting and improve engine braking on descents.
• Monitor Your Gauges: The 2019 Silverado features an advanced trailering system with an in-vehicle app. It allows you to monitor trailer tire pressure and temperature (with optional sensors) and run through a pre-trip checklist.
• Mind Your Engine: While the 6.2L V8 provides the most power, the 5.3L V8 with the Max Trailering Package is a very capable and more common configuration. The 2.7L Turbo is best for lighter, occasional towing, while the 4.3L V6 is a reliable workhorse for utility trailers.
• Check Your Mirrors: Factory trailering mirrors are highly recommended for any trailer wider than the truck. They extend to provide a clear view past the trailer's sides.

Common Towing-Related Issues

• Transmission Temperature: While the optional external transmission cooler does an excellent job, long uphill grades in hot weather can still push transmission temperatures high. Monitor the gauge and be prepared to slow down or pull over to let the truck cool if necessary.
• Incorrect Hitch Setup: Many handling and sway problems can be traced back to an improperly configured Weight Distributing Hitch. Take the time to set it up correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific truck and trailer combination.
• Overloading Payload: It's easy to exceed your truck's payload capacity before you hit its max tow rating. Remember that payload includes the trailer's tongue weight, all passengers, and any cargo in the bed and cab. Always confirm your truck's payload on the door jamb sticker.

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