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Old 01-29-2018, 10:09 PM   #1
Mini-Skoolie
 
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Towing Capacity

I have been looking into a 2004 Chevrolet Express mini van/school bus, 28 person capacity, with a 6.0L V8 OHV 16V engine. Can't seem to find specifics on its towing capability? Does anyone have experience with what weight vehicle this motor and transmission can readily tow behind it without overdoing it? Now and then I may want to tow my pick up truck. Thanks, Norm.

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Old 01-29-2018, 11:54 PM   #2
Traveling
 
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Year: 2003
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Chassis: TC2000
Engine: 5.9L Cummins
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2004 Chevrolet Express Passenger Express Van 135 Specs and ...
http://www.nadaguides.com/Cars/2004/...press.../Specs
Engine Specifications. Engine. VORTEC 6000 V8 SFI (300 HP [223.8 kW] @ 4400 rpm, 360 lb.-ft. [486.6 N-m] @ 4000 rpm). Horsepower. 300 @ 4400 RPM. Torque. 360 @ 4000 RPM. Max Towing Capacity. 7,900 lbs. Drivetrain. Drivetrain. Rear Wheel Drive. Transmission. 4-Speed Automatic, Heavy-Duty
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Old 01-30-2018, 03:25 AM   #3
Bus Crazy
 
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The tow rating should be similar to a C/K3500 pickup of the same vintage with the same engine, transmission, and rear end ratio.

According to Trailer Life, in 2003 and 2005 (no 2004 info on their website), a G3500 with a GVWR with the 6.0L and 4.10 and a GVWR of 16,000 lbs. should have a tow rating of between 7,000 lbs. and 10,000 lbs.

Of course, the total GCWR of between 23K and 26K has to include the weight of the bus and everything and everybody on the bus.

Your limiting factor is going to be the rear axle GAWR (gross axle weight rating) and the amount of weight your tires can handle.

The 4L80 or 6L80 transmission is plenty stout enough to handle the weight but if your bus doesn't already have a transmission temperature gauge you would be smart to invest in one fairly soon.

http://www.trailerlife.com/wp-conten...Guide-2003.pdf

http://www.trailerlife.com/wp-conten...Guide-2005.pdf
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Old 01-30-2018, 05:22 AM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Pine Sap View Post
I have been looking into a 2004 Chevrolet Express mini van/school bus, 28 person capacity, with a 6.0L V8 OHV 16V engine. Can't seem to find specifics on its towing capability? Does anyone have experience with what weight vehicle this motor and transmission can readily tow behind it without overdoing it? Now and then I may want to tow my pick up truck. Thanks, Norm.
I occasionally drive a work truck that has the 6.0. It tows like a boss.
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Old 03-18-2019, 03:04 PM   #5
Almost There
 
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Year: 2006
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Chassis: Chevrolet Express 3500
Engine: Duramax
https://www.buyersproducts.com/produ...-receivers-182

It appears that there may be a hitch rated at 12000 lbs trailer capacity. Use the tow/haul mode and keep the speed down and you'll probably be fine doing occasional tows of your truck. I would suggest upgrading the transmission cooler though.
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