My 92 blazer is clearly not a tow machine..
 

..as it is. But, what should I look into to help it. I just did a tune up and I'm wondering what else I should do to help this thing get down the road a little better when towing a little under 1 ton(1700 lbs.). The only reason I purchased the truck is to get me and my boat to the lake but it's having a heck of a time with the hills and is killing me with 10-11 mpg. I know this truck has it in it to do a better job than it is and I don't want to waste a bunch of time trying out things that will not make a difference.

If this helps any, here are some of the issues:

1. SES light comes on for a few minutes(only while towing), then it goes off.
2. Puff of smoke when I start it, especially when it hasn't been cranked in a few days.
3. If I leave it running for a bit, sitting in one spot, there will be black residue on the spot below the exhaust.
4. 16-17 mpg normally, 10-11 while towing
5. Has 'get up and go' on flat surface, while towing, but even the slightest hill is a challenge.

Otherwise, the truck is in excellent condition and I got a deal on it so even if I'm kidding myself to think this truck can pull this load, it will be easy to sell for what I have in it. Just wonder what you guys think.
Thanks

Check out that SES code could be important. Maybe EGR valve code?

Is the TV cable adjusted properly? Other than that, really only a couple of things like tire pressure and rear gearing.

All of this is IMO, of course

Josh Hucks

Will the ses code come up even after the light goes off?
If I'm not mistaken, the TV cable has something to do with the tranny shifting, but I'm not sure. Where is it? How do I know if it needs adjusting?
Thanks for your help.