New from Chicagoland

[Al_C]

Hello! It's been a while since I've owned a GM vehicle of any kind, but it may be time to change all that. I'm replacing my daily driver (a Volvo S60R), and my favorite - at this point - is a Tahoe. I'm thinking pre-owned, and I want to optimize model year, mileage and cost. My primary requirement is towing. I have a cobra replica (FFR Mark IV) that weighs 2300 lbs. A rental trailer weighs about 2200 lbs., so I'm thinking anything greater than a 6000 lb. capacity would work. From what I have gathered, a Tahoe should be able to handle that fairly easily.

Here's how you could possibly help: are there specific packages/options/codes I should look for in a used Tahoe or Yukon? I've heard some horror stories about transmissions. Is this a weak spot for these vehicles that have been used to tow? I can certainly install a transmission oil cooler, but I'd like to avoid replacing the transmission if I can. I have a lot to learn about towing, but it's time to get going. I'm not getting any younger and long trips in the roadster are getting harder! Your experience will be appreciated. -Al C.

 

[Joseph Garcia]

Welcome to the Forum from NH.

Lots of knowledgeable folks here who freely share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. Knowledge is power.

I hope that you will become a participating member in the Forum's discussions.

Pics of the truck, please.

I cannot personally assist you with your issue, but other members of this Forum much more knowledgeable than me in this area will chime in.

 

[Big Mama]

Welcome to the forum from Virginia. The stories you may have heard are probably about the 8 speed transmission. Though some have never had an issue. The 10 speed in use now is awesome.

As for packages, that’s a matter of taste mostly. Most come with driver assist, multiple cameras and CarPlay. If you look at the trim levels on line you’ll get a better idea.

The weight you mentioned isn’t a problem but having the additional tow package that has more trans cooling won’t hurt. Some models have optional tow mirrors and additional cameras to help you see better. The overhead view is my favorite. Some also have the ability to place a camera on the back of the trailer.

Don’t forget to look at Yukons too. Though they’re both GM products and look the same outside the Tahoe and Yukon can be quite different.

 

[Al_C]

Welcome to the Forum from NH.

Lots of knowledgeable folks here who freely share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. Knowledge is power.

I hope that you will become a participating member in the Forum's discussions.

Pics of the truck, please.

I cannot personally assist you with your issue, but other members of this Forum much more knowledgeable than me in this area will chime in.

Thanks, Joe. Can't post truck photos, because I don't have it yet! (will do so as available...)(

 

[Miami-Dade]

Welcome from Miami&Queens NY!

 

[OR VietVet]

Welcome to the forum from Oregon.

Especially since you are planning on towing, but you did not say how often and it almost sounds like the only thing the Tahoe/Yukon would be used for is towing. You can also consider a Suburban or Yukon XL.

Anyway, my point is, do the due diligence and know for sure what you are getting. If you are going to buy used, you want detailed maintenance and repair records from the seller. hard to get that from a dealer of any sort. CarFax only shows what has been REPORTED. Any accidents on a CarFax do not go in to much detail either. Also, any vehicle you consider, should be inspected, no matter what, by a trusted tech at a trusted shop. Let's say you have 5 trucks inspected at $100 each. That is $500 spent that could save you thousands. Plus, be aware of rust damage up there in Chicagoland.

Might be best to fly to a new to you used vehicle in a no rust state.

 

[Al_C]

Welcome to the forum from Virginia. The stories you may have heard are probably about the 8 speed transmission. Though some have never had an issue. The 10 speed in use now is awesome.

As for packages, that’s a matter of taste mostly. Most come with driver assist, multiple cameras and CarPlay. If you look at the trim levels on line you’ll get a better idea.

The weight you mentioned isn’t a problem but having the additional tow package that has more trans cooling won’t hurt. Some models have optional tow mirrors and additional cameras to help you see better. The overhead view is my favorite. Some also have the ability to place a camera on the back of the trailer.

Don’t forget to look at Yukons too. Though they’re both GM products and look the same outside the Tahoe and Yukon can be quite different.

Great input, thanks!

 

[Al_C]

Welcome to the forum from Oregon.

Especially since you are planning on towing, but you did not say how often and it almost sounds like the only thing the Tahoe/Yukon would be used for is towing. You can also consider a Suburban or Yukon XL.

Anyway, my point is, do the due diligence and know for sure what you are getting. If you are going to buy used, you want detailed maintenance and repair records from the seller. hard to get that from a dealer of any sort. CarFax only shows what has been REPORTED. Any accidents on a CarFax do not go in to much detail either. Also, any vehicle you consider, should be inspected, no matter what, by a trusted tech at a trusted shop. Let's say you have 5 trucks inspected at $100 each. That is $500 spent that could save you thousands. Plus, be aware of rust damage up there in Chicagoland.

Might be best to fly to a new to you used vehicle in a no rust state.

I agree! I just need to locate the right tech to do the inspections! Right now, I envision towing probably once every two months, maybe? The Tahoe/Yukon offers more than just that, but I don't want to get anything that CAN'T tow. Not a fan of Suburbans, because they're quite a bit longer in my view. I prefer the shorter wheelbase.

 

[wjburken]

Welcome to the forum from Iowa.

 

[BlackBearPerf]

Welcome to this great forum from Idaho!