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What is the towing capacity of the 2017 Chevy Express 3500?

The 2017 Chevy Express 3500's towing capacity depends on engine and equipment, with the highest rating around 8,600–8,700 pounds when properly equipped. Lower-powered configurations tow less, and the exact figure can vary by vehicle options and hitch setup.


Engine options and rated towing capacities


How engine choice influences tow ratings


GM published towing figures for the Express 3500 that vary by engine and available towing hardware. The following ranges reflect typical maximums when a factory hitch and towing package are installed. Your specific vehicle may differ based on GVWR, bumper setup, and added equipment. Always confirm with the door jamb sticker and owner's manual.



  • 4.3L V6: generally capable of towing roughly 7,000–7,500 pounds when properly equipped.

  • 4.8L V8: commonly rated around 7,500–8,000 pounds with the essential towing hardware.

  • 6.0L V8: GM's top-end for the Express 3500 is about 8,600–8,700 pounds when a factory hitch and towing package are installed.


Note that the actual value you see on a specific vehicle can be lower depending on its GVWR and added equipment. The trailer’s weight, along with payload limits, also influences safe towing capacity.


How to verify the exact rating for your van


To determine your particular Express 3500's maximum trailer weight, check these sources and steps:



  1. Consult the vehicle's door jamb sticker for the "Max Trailer Weight" or "Towing" figure specific to your VIN.

  2. Review the owner's manual's "Towing" section for engine-specific guidelines and required equipment.

  3. Ensure the proper towing package, hitch class, and trailer brakes are installed as specified.


Following these steps ensures you stay within the safe and legal limits for your specific vehicle configuration, protecting you and others on the road.


Practical considerations for towing with a 2017 Express 3500



  • Payload vs. towing: The Express 3500's payload rating affects how much trailer weight you can carry, particularly for heavy cargo vans used for business.

  • Braking and safety: Heavier trailers require adequate braking systems and possibly trailer brake controllers.

  • Maintenance and tires: Ensure tires and brakes are rated for the combined weight and perform regular checks on lug nuts and wheel bearings.


With careful planning and the right equipment, the 2017 Express 3500 can handle a variety of towing tasks, from utility trailers to light contractor trailers.


Summary


The 2017 Chevy Express 3500's towing capacity ranges from roughly 7,000–7,500 pounds on the 4.3L V6 to about 8,600–8,700 pounds with the 6.0L V8 and the proper towing package. Always verify the exact rating on your vehicle's door sticker and follow GM's towing guidelines to ensure safe operation.

How much can a 2017 Chevy 3500 tow?


The 2017 Chevy 3500 HD's towing capacity varies by configuration, with the maximum being 23,300 lbs for fifth-wheel towing and 20,000 lbs for conventional towing. The specific capacity depends on factors like the engine (gasoline or Duramax diesel), drivetrain, cab, and bed length.
 
This video reviews the 2017 Chevy 3500 Dually with the new Duramax engine: 57sMrTruckYouTube · Mar 19, 2017
Towing capacity by configuration

  • Maximum towing: Up to 23,300 lbs with a fifth-wheel setup. 
  • Conventional towing: Up to 20,000 lbs. 
  • Gasoline V8 (6.0L): Towing capacity is 13,000 to 15,000 lbs, depending on cab and bed size. 
  • Duramax Diesel V8 (6.6L): Towing capacity is 15,000 lbs for most trims, but can be 13,000 lbs for specific configurations with a 6.5 ft bed. 



How much weight is a 2017 Chevy Express van rated to pull?


2017 Chevrolet Express 2500 Cargo Specs, Features & Options

Save 1 of 2 Express 2500 Cargo Van 3DSave 2 of 2 Express 2500 Cargo Extended Van 3D
See Pricing See Cars in StockSee Pricing See Cars in Stock
LT245/75R16ELT245/75R16E
Towing Capacity
10,000 lbs10,000 lbs



What are the common problems of Express 3500?


Chevrolet Express 3500 Problems

  • Tail Light Wiring in Cargo Area May be Damaged.
  • Fuel Level Sensor Failure.
  • Replace Fuel Filter Every 30,000 to Prevent Fuel Pump Failure.
  • Electrical components under front carpet may be damaged when cleaning van interior.
  • "No start" Caused By Failed Fuel Pump.



How much can a Chevy Express 3500 pull?


The towing capacity for a Chevy Express 3500 varies by model and engine, with a maximum of 10,000 pounds for the 6.6L V8 engine in the Cargo models. The Passenger and Cargo models with the 6.6L V8 can tow up to 9,600 lbs (regular) or 9,200 lbs (extended), and models with the 4.3L V6 can tow up to 7,400 lbs. Always check the specific vehicle's equipment and owner's manual for accurate information.
 
6.6L V8 engine 

  • Cargo models: Up to 10,000 lbs
  • Passenger models (regular wheelbase): Up to 9,600 lbs
  • Passenger models (extended wheelbase): Up to 9,200 lbs 

4.3L V6 engine 
  • Cargo models (regular wheelbase): Up to 7,400 lbs
  • Cargo models (extended wheelbase): Up to 7,100 lbs
  • Passenger models (regular wheelbase): Up to 6,700 lbs
  • Passenger models (extended wheelbase): Up to 6,300 lbs 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.