My 2002 A/T Xtreme has labeling on the step bumper reads 350 tongue, 3500 towing.


The car also has a 2" receiver hitch (the kind that bolts on to the sides of the frame) in addition to the usual step bumper hitch. The label on that also says 350 tongue, 3500 trailer; with weight distribution hitch, 750 tongue, 6000 trailer.


The owner's manual says an Xtreme is not to exceed 2000 towing.


Wondering why the conflicting info and what is folk's ideas on what I can tow.

 

I wouldn't plan on towing much with it. Did you have something in mind?

 

Step bumper hitch is "standard issue". Owners manual takes precedence, trust it... 2000 pound maximum trailer weight, with 200 pound maximum tongue weight. Lose the bolt on receiver and gain some MPG Put it on Craig's list and gain some $$.

 

Lumber. So the more the better. Why/what happens with too much weight. Lots of Blazers there, CWB.

 

Too much weight can overheat the transmission, overload the brakes, possibly break suspension components, and generally make your life miserable.


On a one-off basis you might get away with maxing out the weight limits, but it's generally not a good idea. If you're towing regularly you should invest in a stand-alone transmission cooler. If you need to haul heavy weights, or tow heavy loads you should invest in a vehicle that is built for towing heavier loads.

 

For the hassle of loading, unloading, and stress on that vehicle, I would just have the load delivered. One shot and it's magically at your place

Yes, I have a "few" Blazers..... I keep buying them for parts and decide they are too nice to part out. It's a sickness I think!!

 

I am asking what, specifically, is different between me and a regular Blazer that lets me tow only half as much. Sorry if that did not come across.

 

Extreme has a lower chassis ride height, (low rider). It is accomplished in part, with a weaker suspension, (springs) which determine what the load carrying capacity is. Load her up with 3500 pounds, and a 350 pound tongue, and she'll be screaming for mercy until the springs break, shouldn't take too long Not designed for towing.

 

Weaker springs makes sense. Can I do better than 2000 lbs by loading the trailer more in the back or using a weight distributing hitch? I have to ask here as I don't think the answer is in the owner's manual

 

Loading the trailer with more weight to the back it a really really bad idea. It will very likely result in an accident. It will cause the trailer to be unstable. I'd strongly recommend that if you need to tow more than your truck is rated to tow that you just find a buddy with a full-size pickup you can borrow. Much easier and safer.