Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

[longstand]

I finally purchase a Suv..

its a
1999 Yukon Denali 4x4
V8 5.7 L

It has a Class 3 Towing HITCH.

I google this. dont know if its the correct information about my SUV:


1999 Yukon Denali SUV Performance

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Auxiliary oil cooler
-
Auxiliary transmission cooler
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5,733 cc 5.7 liters 8 V engine with 101.6 mm bore, 88.4 mm stroke, 9.4 compression ratio, overhead valve and two valves per cylinder
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Unleaded fuel
-
Fuel economy EPA highway (l/100km): 14.7
-
Multi-point injection fuel system
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114 liter fuel tank
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Power: 190 kW , 255 HP @ 4,600 rpm; 330 ft lb , 447 Nm @ 2,800 rpm

1999 Yukon Denali SUV Handling

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ABS
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3.73:1 axle ratio
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Rear differential lock
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Two disc brakes including two ventilated discs
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Immobilizer
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Fullsize steel rim under body spare wheel
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Wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar independent with torsion springs , beam rear suspension rigid with leaf springs
----------------------------
----------------------------
----------------------------

My boat has a New Double AXLE trailer with Disk brake. which i have no clue how to use.. i don't see any wiring beside the trailer lights. I assume the disk brake on the trailer operate by pressure. when i hit my SUV brake the trailer brake activate.

Iam really scare to pull big boat. i only fell comfortable when i use my friends lifted truck to tow it. but now i have a SUV of my own i want to be sure if my SUV will be more than enough to tow my boat

My SUV has a 5.7 V8 350 Engine
the SUV it self weight about 3,000 pounds.

sorry for the English. please advice me

 

[Bob's Garage]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

According to what information I have been able to put together, you are at or over your towing capacity by as much as 500 - 1000lbs.

Boat weighs approximately 5500lbs dry/no gear
Trailer weight guesstimate 1500lbs (just cause)
total 7000lbs - no fuel, or gear, no water infusion

Vehicle tow capacity 6500lbs.

Oops factor at least 500lbs.

These numbers are bound to be off by a factor of "God only knows". And this would be for a 1500 series vehicle, if 2500 series you should be ok.

 

[longstand]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

Arggg.

Finaly purchase a SUV. now its useless.

i did some research of what is the towing.. your correct its only 6,500 Max.

i assume that having a V8 5.7 Letter and over 350 Torque i will be ok


what is your suggestion. Mr. Bob?

the boat is going to be full of fuel. passenger including me will be about 410 pounds.

When i purchase the boat 2 year or so ago. my friend had a Red Chevrolet Silverado 1500 which pull the boat. it was lifted and was able to pull it no problem. i believe the towing capacity is about the same.


Has anyone ever pull a boat with my Truck/SUV Set-up V8 5.7L 350 Engine??

 

[sasto]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

I use an Escalade with no problem at all. Towed over 1000 miles onetime. 6.2 with 400 HP.

 

[mxfever]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

Unless I missed something totally obvious I don?t see where you listed how much your boat weighs. I pulled a 21 footer for a year with my old 99 Tahoe. Same drive train as your truck, 5.7 and all. Mine had 137,000 on the clock and didn?t even blink when the boat was behind it. We could run 75 on the highway with no problems. If the plug on the boat trailer is just a 4 pin I would assume the trailer has its own hydraulic brakes. You would know for sure by looking at the tongue. Mine has a hydraulic reservoir fluid cap right on the tongue. As you slow the tongue ramps up applying pressure to the brakes on the trailer. Now as your friends truck goes. Without knowing the year it really doesn?t help much. I believe 00 and newer with a 5.3 have a tow rating in the 7000 lbs range. And 90% of people that lift trucks and put bigger tires on don?t change the axle gear ratio so it would be hard to say if the truck is really working or not. To be safe I would find out how much your boat weights and then talk to a local dealer. Yeah the truck could be rated to pull it but it also depends on the condition of the vehicle. Transmission fluid condition, cooling system condition and so on. Hope this helps.

 

[DuckHunterJon]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

Just a couple of thoughts. First, your Yukon weighs way more than 3000 lbs. Second, you need to find out what your boat weighs - take it to a gravel pit or a scrap yard and ask to wieght it on their scales. Now you will know for sure the wieght and can make an informed decision.

With that said, the 350 (5.7L) in my opinion is the best engine ever made in terms of torque. Most likely, you also have the 4L60E or 4L80E transmission, which are equally stout. As such, pulling the boat will not be a problem. With my 95 (same engine and trans) I pulled a 10,000 lb bobcat from time to time and had no issues. Stopping the load is another issue entirely.

On the brakes, they are most likely surge brakes - as you slow down, the momentum of the boat pushes a piston in the trailer tounge, which in turn applies the disk brakes to slow the trailer. That is how most boat trailer brakes are setup. Make sure these are up to date on maintenance and checked out.

Lastly, since you mentioned it twice, a lifted truck does absolutely nothing for towing. You should be able to pull just as much, if not more as your buddy's lifted 1500.

My guess is you will have no issues towing the boat, but get it weighed and decide for yourself. The number one factor in towing is between your ears. Driving extra defensively, and leaving youself more room to stop are the key factors.

 

[Bob's Garage]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

Arggg.

Finaly purchase a SUV. now its useless.

i did some research of what is the towing.. your correct its only 6,500 Max.

i assume that having a V8 5.7 Letter and over 350 Torque i will be ok


what is your suggestion. Mr. Bob?

the boat is going to be full of fuel. passenger including me will be about 410 pounds.

When i purchase the boat 2 year or so ago. my friend had a Red Chevrolet Silverado 1500 which pull the boat. it was lifted and was able to pull it no problem. i believe the towing capacity is about the same.


Has anyone ever pull a boat with my Truck/SUV Set-up V8 5.7L 350 Engine??

You have received a lot of advise, and depending on circumstances, I would agree with some of it, but they are making some assumptions that I would not make.

Keep in mind that just because you can move it, doesn't mean that you should. Otherwise why would the manufacturer furnish tow weight information? (I know, they just want you to buy a larger truck.

In response to your question, I would 1st try to determine what your truck actually has for equipment. You can take the VIN to a dealer and ask if they can tell you what the truck actually has for towing ability.

Then, I too would take the boat to a truck scale and have them weigh the rig as it would be when towing, as well as the entire setup.

Armed with this information you will be able to make an informed decision as to how to proceed.

I do not recommend towing with a heavily over matched tow vehicle, but I have done it in the past, and I know that you will do as you please. (As did I).

I suggest making sure the trailer brakes work and learning how they function. Make sure the suspension on the suv is able to handle the tongue weight even if it means installing air bags or shocks.

If you are going to haul it long distances, carry as little fuel as possible, gas weighs 6.5lbs @ gal, and fill when you arrive.

Drive no more than 60/65 mph, keep a long distance between you and the vehicle in front, and drive fully alert.

Most important, take a Boating Safety Course that includes trailer operation. (One that is taught by experienced boaters, not an on line course. No real life information available from the on line "instructor".) Get familiar with your boat and trailer, how it works and how to make it better.

Right now there is so much you do not know about your tow vehicle and trailer that you are afraid of it and would rather have your buddy do the towing.

Experience and training will help you get past the concern and you may find you even enjoy towing. As crazy as it sounds I enjoy actually towing our 6500lb boat because I know it is as safe as anything on the road and I can handle anything that may come up, (so far).

 

[109jb]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

Your friends Silverado may have had a bunch more towing capacity than your Yukon. Depending on the model, 1500 Silverados can have up to 10,500 pounds towing capacity.

I don't know where the other weight estimates came from so I will give sources.

Looking at the boat specs here on I-boats, the boat is about 4200 pounds.

http://www.iboats.com/Regal_Boats__Ambassador_245XL__1983/bp/64b70480r1

A 5200 pound capacity ez-loader model TEZ19 which is a tandem axle for 22 to 24 foot boats weighs 1119 pounds so lets say 1200 pounds for the trailer.

Those 2 weights puts the boat/trailer at about 5400 pounds. But you have to add gas and anything else you put in the boat to that weight.

Now you have to look at your Yukon. Don't go by what you find on the internet. Go to a dealer and ask because towing capacity depends on how the vehicle was equipped. Also, ask the dealer what type equipment is required at the maximum towing capacity. Most times it requires a special weight distributing hitch to get the maximum tow rating. You may be within the limit, but we need more info first.

If a weight distributing hitch is needed for the weight you will need a special one since the trailer has surge brakes.

Basically, until we have more information, anyone saying yes or no is just guessing.

 

[captkevin]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

Find out what gear ratio your Yukon has. Hope for a 4:10. If it has a 3:42 you are going to struggle. Gear ratio has a major impact on overall tow rating for the truck. If you have the owners manual it should list towing capacity for each ratio.

 

[gtochris]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

You didnt mention how far you want to go with this boat.

IMO, the Tahoe/ Yukon isnt enough vehicle for your weight and you should likely have a 2500 truck. Can you post a picture of this boat/ trailer?

Suspension/ brakes I feel are a shortcoming of the GM trucks, I think your twin engine 24ft boat + trailer is way over the 6500lb limit for this SUV. If this is a "local" move then I say sure.

 

[hoytvectrix]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

I think you will be fine towing the boat. As said before your friends lifted truck probably isn't going to be able to tow as much as your yukon. The 350 is a tough engine. I have one, its the tbi not the vortec, a 1994 K1500 with 225,000 miles on it and it pulled a 30' camper to colorado and back, sometimes a little slow up big hills but the only thing that sucked is the fuel mileage. As long as you have the trailer brakes hooked up to your vehicle it will be fine.

 

[109jb]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

You didnt mention how far you want to go with this boat.

I see this kind of thing on this forum all the time and I don't get it. In my opinion, whether you are going 3 miles or 300 miles it doesn't matter. If the tow rating of the vehicle can't handle it, then it can't handle it.

 

[longstand]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

My Engine has in great running condition..

it has 223k miles on the engine.

i have flush the engine, and Sea-foam the Intake/Valve/Piston Chamber and soon will change tranny fluid and Axle.

I believe i have a Serge Brake on my trailer. i have 4 disk brake and they are all good. brake is good, and the Rooter is good and Smooth.

My house is only 25 Miles from the Beach. so my Travel is not that far. the only problem is parking the boat from my house.. i live up a stiff hill.

Taking out the boat is no problem.. but parking it up on Reverse. dang thats what really scare me..

I guest i just need a friend with me and his big truck and a big Jack. just in-case my truck cant handle all this weight.


My trailer Information:

Dico model 10 Surg-o-matic actuator for trailer brakes.

I assume like the guy above. its about 1100 Pounds. .

The boat is
Boat = 4200 to be safe. with full thank its about "4500
Trailer = 1200
Total: 5700

----------
When the boat is Wet from the ocean i assume the weight will be around 6000 Pounds.

If my Towing Max Capacity is 6500 i think i will be ok..

But before i eve try to pull it i will take everyone Advice here..

I will Install a Helper Bag for the rear suspension so it will even-out the weight of the boat/trailer.

.

 

[109jb]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

I don't understand you guys. How can anyone say that it is fine when we don't know the actual weight of the boat/trailer, and we don't know the actual tow capacity of the truck. It may be within limits, but nobody can say at this point as all of the weights and capacities are guesses.

As for the "lifted" truck, many people think my 2003 Duramax is "lifted" and I guess it is due to a factory 2" lift. But that lift has been considered in the tow rating of the truck. Again, nobody can say what the towing capacity of the OP's friends truck is because you don't know anything but the very brief general description of the truck. Hardly enough to know it has less capacity than a Yukon.

 

[BaileysBoat]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

I see this kind of thing on this forum all the time and I don't get it. In my opinion, whether you are going 3 miles or 300 miles it doesn't matter. If the tow rating of the vehicle can't handle it, then it can't handle it.

Ditto.

And, for relaxed towing ya want to be about 75% of capacity.

my2cents

 

[gtochris]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

I see this kind of thing on this forum all the time and I don't get it. In my opinion, whether you are going 3 miles or 300 miles it doesn't matter. If the tow rating of the vehicle can't handle it, then it can't handle it.

Most of my towing has always been within 1/2 a mile as we live 1/4 mi from the ramp... I wouldnt hesitate to pull 10K that distance nor would I hestitate to pull my boat with an undersized vehicle. Going on the highway is a different story and for this type of load I dont feel a Yukon is substantial enough.

Taking out the boat is no problem.. but parking it up on Reverse. dang thats what really scare me..


.

I think you weight MUCH more then 4500 lbs as you have 2 engines...

Reverse can be easier, if you use 4LO it takes alot of stress off the drivetrain and makes it tons easier when backing up a steep hill.

 

[109jb]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

Most of my towing has always been within 1/2 a mile as we live 1/4 mi from the ramp... I wouldnt hesitate to pull 10K that distance nor would I hestitate to pull my boat with an undersized vehicle. Going on the highway is a different story and for this type of load I dont feel a Yukon is substantial enough.

And if a kid comes darting out from behind a car can you stop that overweight load with your undersize tow vehicle??

This kind of irresponsibility really pisses me off because people always assume that nothing bad will happen.

 

[boltonranger]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

My Engine has in great running condition..

it has 223k miles on the engine.

i have flush the engine, and Sea-foam the Intake/Valve/Piston Chamber and soon will change tranny fluid and Axle.

I believe i have a Serge Brake on my trailer. i have 4 disk brake and they are all good. brake is good, and the Rooter is good and Smooth.

My house is only 25 Miles from the Beach. so my Travel is not that far. the only problem is parking the boat from my house.. i live up a stiff hill.

Taking out the boat is no problem.. but parking it up on Reverse. dang thats what really scare me..

I guest i just need a friend with me and his big truck and a big Jack. just in-case my truck cant handle all this weight.


My trailer Information:

Dico model 10 Surg-o-matic actuator for trailer brakes.

I assume like the guy above. its about 1100 Pounds. .

The boat is
Boat = 4200 to be safe. with full thank its about "4500
Trailer = 1200
Total: 5700

----------
When the boat is Wet from the ocean i assume the weight will be around 6000 Pounds.

If my Towing Max Capacity is 6500 i think i will be ok..

But before i eve try to pull it i will take everyone Advice here..

I will Install a Helper Bag for the rear suspension so it will even-out the weight of the boat/trailer.

.

Does your Denali have 4wd LO?
If so, the hill by your house is no problem. Even in reverse.


"When the boat is Wet from the ocean i assume the weight will be around 6000 Pounds."
No this is wrong - you will not have 100 gallons of water in the boat - ever.

You're going to want 10% of the weight on the tongue for proper handling.
-br

 

[BaileysBoat]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

Most of my towing has always been within 1/2 a mile as we live 1/4 mi from the ramp... I wouldnt hesitate to pull 10K that distance nor would I hestitate to pull my boat with an undersized vehicle.

Is this you?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kl96QpAyips

Seriously, if someone gets hurt or you have property damage, or you get a citation, and you have to defend yourself in court, do you think anything posted in this forum saying, Ya Go for it dude!!! will help you if you have exceeded the manufacturers towing specification?

 

[Robbabob]

Re: Can my 1999 Yukon Denali Tow my 24" Boat

I bet the Yukon has plenty of pulling power for the boat. Just realize your family member could be the one that needs you to stop in an emergency.

Please check the rating on YOUR actual truck and verify everything is within capacity. It's not just tongue weight and trailer load your pulling... you have to stop it, too.