How much weight can a Chevy 2500 HD pull on a trailer?
The towing capacity of a Chevy Silverado 2500 HD depends on the engine, hitch type, axle configuration, and cab/bed setup. In general, you’ll see a range from roughly 14,000–15,000 pounds with a gasoline engine, up to about 18,500 pounds for conventional towing with the diesel, and as much as about 35,500 pounds when using a gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch on diesel models.
What the numbers look like by configuration
These figures reflect typical maximum towing capacities for commonly equipped 2500HD trucks. Actual ratings depend on engine choice, drivetrain, axle ratio, and whether you’re pulling with a bumper hitch or a gooseneck/fifth-wheel setup.
- Gasoline engine (6.0L V8) with standard bumper hitch: up to roughly 14,000–15,000 pounds of conventional towing, depending on configuration.
- Duramax turbo-diesel engine (6.6L) with bumper hitch: up to about 18,500 pounds of conventional towing.
- Duramax with gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch: up to approximately 35,500 pounds of towing capacity.
These are the most commonly cited maxima for recent model years. Always verify the exact figure for your specific truck, as payload, axle ratio, and package options can shift the rating.
How to determine your truck’s exact rating
To confirm the precise towing limit for your Silverado 2500 HD, follow these steps based on your vehicle’s configuration and trailer plan.
- Check the vehicle’s door jamb placard or the Owner’s Manual for the GCWR (gross combined weight rating) and the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating).
- Identify the engine and transmission installed in your truck (gas 6.0L V8 vs. diesel 6.6L Duramax) and note the axle ratio if listed.
- Determine hitch type and whether you plan to use a bumper hitch or a gooseneck/fifth-wheel setup.
- Know the trailer’s own rating: its GVWR and the weight of the fully loaded trailer (including cargo, water, fuel, and other gear).
- Consult GM’s official towing guide or the vehicle’s window sticker for the exact model-year rating that matches your configuration.
Following these steps helps ensure you don’t exceed the truck’s rated capability, which is essential for safety and compliance on public roads.
Important safety considerations
Even within the listed maxima, real-world towing must account for cargo weight, passengers, fuel, and weather conditions. Always plan for a margin below the stated rating, verify trailer brakes and lighting, and ensure your trailer’s weight distribution aligns with the truck’s towing package and load handling characteristics.
Summary
The Chevy Silverado 2500 HD can tow a broad range of trailer weights depending on configuration: roughly 14,000–15,000 pounds with a gas engine, about 18,500 pounds with a diesel on conventional towing, and up to around 35,500 pounds with a gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch on diesel models. Always confirm the exact rating for your specific truck year, engine, hitch, and axle setup by checking the owner’s manual, door placard, or GM’s official towing guide.
