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What is the towing capacity of the 2018 6.6 Duramax?

The 2018 6.6 Duramax diesel engine, found in select Chevrolet and GMC trucks, has a maximum towing capacity of 23,300 pounds when properly equipped. This powerful engine provides exceptional hauling and towing capabilities for heavy-duty truck owners.


Detailed Towing Capacity Breakdown


The 2018 6.6 Duramax engine is available in the Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD models. The towing capacity of these trucks can vary depending on the specific configuration, including the cab style, bed length, and other optional equipment.



  • The maximum towing capacity of 23,300 pounds applies to properly equipped Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD and GMC Sierra 3500 HD models with the 6.6 Duramax engine and the appropriate towing package.

  • For the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD and GMC Sierra 2500 HD models with the 6.6 Duramax, the maximum towing capacity is 20,000 pounds.

  • Towing capacities may be lower for models with different cab styles, bed lengths, or other optional equipment that can affect the truck's overall weight and balance.


It's important to always refer to the manufacturer's specifications and the information provided on the vehicle's certification label to determine the exact towing capacity for a specific 2018 6.6 Duramax-equipped truck.


Factors Affecting Towing Capacity


The towing capacity of a vehicle is influenced by several factors, including the engine's power and torque output, the truck's overall weight and balance, the type of trailer being towed, and the driving conditions. Proper equipment, such as a heavy-duty towing package, can also significantly impact the maximum towing capacity.



  • Engine power and torque: The 6.6 Duramax diesel engine produces 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for towing heavy loads.

  • Truck weight and balance: The weight distribution and overall weight of the truck, including passengers and cargo, can affect the towing capacity.

  • Trailer type and weight: The type and weight of the trailer being towed can impact the truck's towing capabilities.

  • Driving conditions: Factors such as terrain, weather, and road conditions can influence the truck's towing performance and the maximum safe towing capacity.


It's crucial to carefully consider all these factors when determining the appropriate towing capacity for a specific 2018 6.6 Duramax-equipped truck and trailer combination.

How much can a 6.6 l Duramax tow?


2024 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Engine Differences

Engine6.6L gas V86.6L Duramax turbo diesel V8
Torque464 lb.-ft.975 lb.-ft.
Max. Conventional Towing16,000 lbs.20,000 lbs.
Max. Gooseneck/Fifth-Wheel Towing18,700 lbs.22,430 lbs.
Max. Payload3,689 lbs.3,615 lbs.



How big of a fifth-wheel can a 2500HD pull?


The Chevy Silverado 2500 towing capacity is 14,500 pounds with conventional towing and 18,100 pounds with fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing.



How much horsepower does a 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD Duramax have?


Sierra HD gets its heavy-duty power from a proven source, the available Duramax 6.6L V-8 Turbo Diesel with 910 lb-ft of torque and 445 hp under your right foot.



How big of a fifth wheel can a 2500HD pull?


The Chevy Silverado 2500 towing capacity is 14,500 pounds with conventional towing and 18,100 pounds with fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing.



How much can a 2018 Chevy 6.6 Duramax tow?


18,100 pounds
Towing and Hauling Capabilities
The 2500HD can tow up to 14,800 pounds with the standard Vortec 6.0-liter V8 engine. With the Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine, it can tow up to 18,100 pounds. These are pretty good numbers, but if you are looking to tow and haul more than that, you will want to look into the 3500HD.



What is the towing capacity of the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD Duramax?


14,500 pounds
With a conventional trailer, the Sierra 2500 HD can tow up to 14,500 pounds or add a fifth wheel/gooseneck trailer for a maximum of 18,100 pounds of towing capacity.



What is the towing capacity of the Duramax compared to the Cummins?


For example, some Ram models with the Cummins engine can tow up to 37,100 pounds when properly equipped, making it an ideal choice for heavy-duty hauling. While the Duramax doesn't quite reach those numbers, it still offers impressive towing capabilities, with many Chevy and GMC trucks able to tow up to 36,000 pounds.



How much can a GMC 2500HD Duramax tow?


The maximum fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing capacity is 10,000 pounds1 when configured properly. The new GMC Sierra 2500 HD tow capacity with a Crew Cab, the available 6.6-liter Duramax turbo diesel engine, and the Max Trailering Package comes in at 20,000 pounds. This is the maximum conventional towing capacity.



What is the towing capacity of the l5p 2500?


The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD towing capacity with the 6.6-liter V-8 gas engine is 16,000 pounds1 with a conventional hitch and 18,7001 when using a gooseneck/fifth-wheel hitch. The 6.6-liter engine produces 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque.



Is the LML or L5P better?


To put this all-in perspective, the L5P puts out 48 MORE horsepower than the LML and 145 lb. ft. more torque than its predecessor. At all engine speeds, in all conditions, the L5P simply trounces the LML.


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.