How much can a 2024 3.0 DuraMax tow?

The short answer: up to roughly 13,000 pounds when properly equipped with GM’s Max Trailering Package, with most configurations falling in the 9,000–11,500-pound range depending on cab/bed, drivetrain, and axle ratio. The exact number for any given truck depends on options and configuration.

To understand what this means for buyers and operators, it helps to dive into how towing ratings are set for the 2024 3.0 Duramax, what configurations influence those numbers, and how to plan safe tows in the real world.

Overview of the 3.0 Duramax and its towing figures

The 2024 model year carries the 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel (LM2) engine, delivering about 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. That torque helps with pulling heavy loads, but the official towing capacity is not universal; it varies by equipment and configuration. GM lists a top trailering rating around 13,000 pounds with the Max Trailering Package, while many common builds sit in the lower end of the range.

Towing numbers by configuration

The following figures reflect GM’s published ratings for Silverado 1500 models that share the 3.0L Duramax, and they illustrate how configuration affects the numbers.

• Maximum towing with the Max Trailering Package: up to about 13,000 pounds. This figure is achievable on certain 2WD configurations with the appropriate hitch, cooling, and suspension upgrades that come with the package.


• Typical towing for standard configurations: approximately 9,000–11,500 pounds, depending on factors such as cab/bed choice, drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD), and rear axle ratio.


• Torque and gearing: the 460 lb-ft of torque and the engine’s torque curve support strong mid-range towing, but the exact rating still hinges on the total equipment and vehicle setup.

These numbers are best used as planning targets. Your actual towing capacity will vary with the specific truck’s equipment and configuration, and you should always refer to the owner’s manual and the official Window Sticker (Monroney label) for the precise rating of a given vehicle.

What to consider when planning a tow with the 3.0 Duramax

Several elements determine the practical towing ability of a 2024 Duramax-equipped Silverado 1500, and understanding them helps ensure safe and legal operation on the road.

• Max Trailering Package requirements: The high-end rating is tied to the optional Max Trailering Package, which includes enhanced cooling, upgraded drivetrain components, and calibrated software.


• Drivetrain and axle ratio: 2WD vs. 4WD and the rear axle ratio (e.g., 3.42 or similar ratios) influence the usable tow capacity and may shift the rating within a given model range.


• Cab and bed configuration: Regular Cab, Double Cab, or Crew Cab and short vs. standard bed configurations affect tare, payload, and the maximum trailer weight that can be safely managed.


• Payload vs. towing: Tow rating is separate from payload capacity; exceeding payloads can reduce available towing capacity and overall safety margins.


• Trailer weight vs. trailer length and braking: Heavier trailers demand more braking capacity and stability control; ensure your setup includes appropriate trailer brakes and safety equipment.

In practice, buyers should balance the Max Trailering capabilities with their daily needs, ensuring the actual loaded weight stays within the safe operating envelope for the selected configuration.

Practical towing tips for 2024 Duramax owners

Beyond the official numbers, real-world towing requires careful preparation and prudent driving. Here are key considerations to keep in mind when planning a tow with the 3.0 Duramax:

• Know the combined weight: Include the trailer, its contents, and any cargo in the truck’s gross combined weight rating (GCWR) and ensure you stay within limits.


• Verify braking and lights: Use trailer brakes where required and check lighting and electrical connections before hitting the road.


• Weight distribution: Use proper hitching, distribute weight evenly, and consider a weight-distribution hitch if recommended for your trailer.


• Fuel economy and reliability: Diesel torque helps with towing, but expect different fuel economy than a similarly sized gasoline truck, especially under load.

With careful planning and the right equipment, the 2024 3.0 Duramax offers a strong towing proposition for mid-size trailers, campers, and other heavy loads, broadening its usefulness beyond everyday driving.

Summary

In sum, the 2024 3.0 Duramax can tow up to roughly 13,000 pounds with the Max Trailering Package, though most configurations fall in the 9,000–11,500-pound range. The exact figure depends on drivetrain, cab/bed configuration, axle ratio, and whether the vehicle is equipped with the Max Trailering Package. Prospective buyers should verify the specific rating for the exact truck they’re considering and plan loads accordingly.

How much weight can a 3.0 Duramax tow?

The towing capacity for a 3.0L Duramax engine varies by vehicle and configuration, with maximum capacities of up to 13,300 lbs for a 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab and up to 13,200 lbs for a 2025 GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet, GMC. To achieve these higher figures, specific options like the "max tow package" are required, which can include 3.73 rear axle gears. 
Maximum towing capacities

• 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500:
  • Max Towing Capacity: Up to 13,300 lbs for the Double Cab, Standard Bed, 2WD model. 
  • Configuration: A 2WD Double Cab, Standard Bed with the Max Tow package is needed for the 13,300 lb rating. 
• 2025 GMC Sierra 1500:
  • Max Towing Capacity: Up to 13,200 lbs for the Crew Cab, Standard Box with Max Tow package. 
  • Configuration: Max Towing capacity depends on the specific configuration and is highest for models with the Max Tow package. 

Important factors to consider

• Max Tow Package: Achieving the highest towing capacities (e.g., 13,300 lbs) requires the Max Tow package, which includes a specific rear axle ratio, such as the 3.73 gears. 
• Vehicle and Bed Configuration: The final towing capacity is highly dependent on the specific truck's configuration, including cab type (Crew, Double, or Regular), bed length, and drivetrain (2WD or 4WD). 
• Payload Capacity: Even with a high towing capacity, payload can be the limiting factor. This is the maximum weight of the passengers, cargo, and tongue weight of the trailer the truck can carry. 
• Payload is not always the limiting factor: According to Reddit users, even if the towing capacity is 13,300 lbs, it doesn't mean you can regularly tow that amount. It's important to be aware of the truck's payload, especially in hilly terrain. 
• Engine power: The 3.0L Duramax engine produces 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for both heavy hauling and everyday commuting. 

What is the 80% towing rule?

Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.

Is the 3.0 Duramax better than the 5.3 V8?

The 3.0L Duramax diesel is better for fuel efficiency, especially on the highway, while the 5.3L V8 gas engine has higher horsepower and a greater towing capacity. The best choice depends on your driving needs: choose the Duramax for fuel savings on long commutes, but opt for the 5.3L if you frequently tow heavy loads. 
This video compares the fuel economy of the 3.0L Duramax and 5.3L V8 engines: 54sAdventure RocksYouTube · Dec 8, 2024
3.0L Duramax

• Fuel Economy: Achieves better MPG, particularly on the highway (e.g., up to 33 mpg). 
• Torque: Delivers higher torque (460 lb-ft) at lower RPMs, providing strong pulling power from a stop. 
• Towing: Has a lower maximum towing capacity compared to the 5.3L V8 (e.g., 9,300-9,500 lbs versus up to 13,400 lbs for the 5.3L, depending on model year). 
• Best for: Highway driving, long commutes, and towing lighter loads where fuel efficiency is a priority. 

5.3L V8

• Horsepower: Produces more horsepower (355 hp). 
• Towing Capacity: Offers a higher maximum towing capacity when properly equipped. 
• Fuel Economy: Has lower MPG ratings (e.g., around 16 city/22 highway) compared to the Duramax. 
• Best for: Drivers who need maximum towing capability and prioritize high horsepower over fuel efficiency. 

You can watch this video to see a 0-60 comparison between the two engines: 0:39JB ReviewsYouTube · Oct 18, 2024
Which one should you choose?

• Choose the 3.0L Duramax if: You want the best fuel economy and are willing to pay more for the diesel option upfront. It's an excellent choice for daily drivers, especially if you spend a lot of time on the highway. 
• Choose the 5.3L V8 if: Your primary need is the ability to tow heavy loads like large campers or boats. 

What is the towing capacity of the 2024 3.0 Duramax?

Wondering how much the light-dty 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 can tow? It depends on the configuration. With the 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 engine with Dynamic Fuel Management, or the DuraMax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel I-6 engine, the Chevy Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds.