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What is the towing capacity of the 6.0 LS?

There isn’t a single towing figure for “6.0 LS” because it is not a standalone vehicle but an engine family used across multiple GM trucks and SUVs. The exact towing capacity depends on the specific vehicle configuration, year, drivetrain, and equipment.

What the 6.0 LS actually is

The term “6.0 LS” is commonly used to refer to GM’s 6.0-liter V8 engines in the Vortec 6000 family. These engines powered a range of GM trucks and larger SUVs, spanning light-duty and heavy-duty platforms. Towing capability is determined by the entire vehicle package—engine plus transmission, axle ratio, suspension, towing equipment, and braking—not by the engine alone.

Why towing capacity varies

Because the same 6.0-liter engine can be paired with different axles, transmissions, hitches, and towing packages, the published towing rating is specific to each model and configuration. A lightly equipped 6.0L-powered vehicle may tow far less than a similarly aged model with a factory towing package and a higher rear-axle ratio. Always refer to the exact vehicle’s window sticker or owner's manual for the official figure.

Typical ranges for 6.0 LS-equipped GM trucks

Below are representative ranges based on common GM platforms that used the 6.0-liter V8. Results vary by year, trim, and optional towing equipment.

Light-duty pickups (where the 6.0L was offered in earlier generations): typical towing capacity tends to fall in the 8,000–12,000 pounds range when configured for towing.

Heavy-duty pickups (2500HD/Sierra 2500HD or Silverado 2500HD) with the 6.0L V8: commonly in the 12,000–18,000 pounds range, with higher figures possible when paired with the right axle ratio and towing package.

SUVs and large vans using the 6.0L V8: commonly around 7,500–12,000 pounds, depending on the model and equipment.

Note: Maximum figures are typically achieved only with factory-recommended towing packages, correct axle ratios, transmission cooling, and proper hitch installations. Always verify the exact rating for your specific vehicle configuration.

How to determine your exact capacity

Use the following steps to confirm your vehicle's official towing capacity for a given trailer:

Look up the official rating in the owner's manual or on the vehicle’s door jamb sticker. The numbers shown include GVWR, GCWR, and maximum trailer weight (towing capacity).

Identify your vehicle's GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) and GCWR (gross combined weight rating). The difference (GCWR minus GVWR) is a practical ceiling for maximum trailer weight, assuming you’re not overweight in the vehicle itself.

Check the factory towing package options and rear-axle ratio. A higher gear ratio (such as 4.10 or 4.56) typically increases tow capability for the same engine.

Consider the hitch rating and trailer brakes. If your trailer requires electric brakes or a certain hitch class, ensure the setup matches or exceeds the trailer's gross weight.

Use weight distribution and proper tongue weight to stay within the limits. Tongue weight is typically about 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight, depending on the hitch and trailer design.

For the exact rating, consult the vehicle’s manufacturer data or your GM dealer, especially for older 6.0L variants where specifications may vary by model year and country.

Summary

The towing capacity of a “6.0 LS” is not a single figure; it depends on the specific GM vehicle it powers. The ranges described here reflect common configurations across light-duty and heavy-duty GM trucks and SUVs that used the 6.0-liter V8, but the official rating for any given vehicle should be taken from the owner’s manual or door sticker. Always verify the exact capacity for safe, compliant towing.

How much can a 2006 F250 6.0 tow?

The conventional towing capacity for a 2006 F-250 6.0L is up to 12,500 lbs, while the fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing capacity varies based on configuration, with ratings up to 16,000 lbs for some models. The exact capacity depends on factors like axle ratio, transmission, cab style, and drivetrain, so it is best to check the specific vehicle's door jamb sticker for its precise maximum towing capacity.

2006 F-250 6.0L towing capacity by configuration
This video discusses towing capacity with an F-250 and how the engine performs under load: 45s6.0 BrosYouTube · Sep 4, 2018

Conventional Towing: The maximum conventional towing capacity is up to 12,500 lbs for most configurations.
Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing:
- Manual Transmission: 4x4 Crew Cab models can tow up to 15,400 lbs in 2006.
- Other configurations:
  - 4x4 SuperCab models can tow up to 15,600 lbs.
  - 4x4 Regular Cab models can tow up to 16,000 lbs.
SRW (Single Rear Wheel): Maximum fifth-wheel towing capacity is up to 15,800 lbs.
Dually (Dual Rear Wheel): Maximum fifth-wheel towing capacity is up to 19,200 lbs.

Important considerations

Check your door jamb sticker: This is the most reliable way to determine your specific truck's towing capacity, as it accounts for its unique configuration.
Manual vs. Automatic Transmission: Towing capacities can differ significantly between manual and automatic transmissions. For example, the maximum conventional towing capacity for manual transmissions is 12,500 lbs regardless of cab or drive system, while capacities can vary for automatic models.
Drivetrain: 4x4 models generally have higher towing capacities than 4x2 models.
Axle Ratio: The axle ratio on your truck affects its towing capacity. Higher ratios (e.g., 4.10 vs. 3.73) generally provide more towing power.
Weight Distribution: Always ensure the weight of your trailer is properly distributed, and that your hitch is installed correctly.
Engine Maintenance: The 6.0L Powerstroke is known for some common issues, such as the EGR cooler. Proper maintenance is crucial for engine reliability under heavy loads.

How much can a 6.0 LS tow?

The towing capacity for a 6.0L LS engine varies by vehicle, typically ranging from approximately 12,000 to 14,800 pounds for bumper pulls, depending on the specific truck's configuration and year. For a 5th-wheel trailer, the capacity can reach up to 14,500 pounds in some setups.
You can watch this video to see the real-world towing experience with a 6.0L engine: 50sWandering WagnersYouTube · Jul 16, 2018
Factors that influence towing capacity

Vehicle configuration: The towing capacity is heavily dependent on the truck's specific configuration, including the cab (regular, double, or crew), drivetrain (2WD or 4WD), and axle ratio.
Towing type: The capacity is different for bumper pulls versus 5th-wheel or gooseneck trailers, with the latter usually allowing for a higher weight.
Year and model: Specific towing capacities can vary between different model years of the same truck.

Examples of towing capacity

2016 Silverado 2500HD: 13,000 lbs (bumper pull)
2017 Silverado 2500HD: Around 14,500 lbs (5th-wheel)
2022 Silverado 3500HD: 14,200 lbs (when properly equipped)

Is a 6.0 or 5.3 better?

Neither the 5.3 nor the 6.0 is universally "better"; the choice depends on your priorities. The 6.0 is better for maximum torque and power, as its larger displacement provides a stronger foundation for builds and performance, especially when towing. The 5.3 is better for budget builds and slightly better fuel economy, as it is cheaper, more readily available, and the thick cylinder walls are strong for certain types of high-performance builds like turbocharging.
This video compares the 5.3 and 6.0 engines: 59sRichard HoldenerYouTube · Mar 26, 2025

Feature	6.0L	5.3L
Best For	Torque, power, towing, and ultimate performance builds	Budget builds, efficiency, and turbocharging on a budget
Torque	Higher, especially at lower RPMs, which is ideal for towing and heavy loads	Lower, but still capable
Power	Higher naturally aspirated power and greater potential for modifications	Good power, but has less potential than the 6.0 without significant modification
Cost	More expensive, as it is less common	Cheaper and more plentiful
Fuel Economy	Lower	Better
Build Potential	Stronger foundation due to larger displacement, ideal for high-end builds	Can handle turbo builds well due to thicker cylinder walls

Choose the 6.0 if: Your budget allows and you prioritize maximum torque and power for heavy hauling, towing, or a high-performance build.
Choose the 5.3 if: You are on a tight budget, need better fuel economy, or are building a budget-friendly performance project, especially a turbo build.

How much can a 2003 Chevy 2500HD 6.0 tow?

Overview

Drive Type	four wheel drive
Total Seating	6
Bed length	97.6 in.
Payload Capacity	3,144 lbs.
Towing Capacity	12,000 lbs.

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.