Welcome to a comprehensive review of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500’s towing and payload capabilities, backed by official data and illustrated with insightful charts.
So, are you excited to delve into the remarkable capabilities of this versatile pickup truck? Let’s get started.
According to the official specifications, the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 towing capacity ranges from 4,400 to 10,700 lbs. The payload capacity, on the other hand, varies from 1,509 to 1,940 lbs.
But these figures aren’t simply numbers. They’re derived from a multitude of factors like the engine variant, model type, Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR), and the particular setup of the truck.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these numbers and their real-world implications for your truck’s performance.
Comprehensive Towing and Payload Capacities of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500: A Chart-Based Analysis
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Max Payload Capacity | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.3L V6 | 195 hp @ 4600 rpm | 260 hp @ 2800 rpm | 1,940 lbs | 5,400 lbs |
| 4.8L V8 | 302 hp @ 5600 rpm | 305 hp @ 4600 rpm | 1,810 lbs | 7,200 lbs |
| 5.3L V8 | 315 hp @ 5200 rpm | 335 hp @ 4000 rpm | 1,757 lbs | 10,000 lbs ** |
| 6.0L V8 Hybrid | 332 hp @ 5100 rpm | 367 hp @ 4100 rpm | 1,527 lbs | 6,100 lbs |
| 6.2L V8 | 403 hp @ 5700 rpm | 417 hp @ 4300 rpm | 1,908 lbs | 10,700 lbs * |
- * with MAX Trailering Pack
- ** When equipped with a Heavy-Duty Cooling Package
This comprehensive chart illustrates the peak capabilities across various engine options, incorporating details on GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating), maximum payload, and maximum towing capacities.
Rest assured, the information you find here is authenticated by trusted sources, including Chevrolet’s official website (Chevrolet.com) and the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Pickup Truck Brochure.
Quick Overview
Diverse Models:
When it comes to variety, the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 has got you covered. Whether you’re a tradesman in need of a rugged Work Truck (WT) or a weekend adventurer searching for the more luxurious LTZ, there’s something for everyone.
Let’s not forget the eco-conscious with the XFE (Xtra Fuel Economy) or those who need a little bit of everything with the LT and LS models. Coupled with various cab sizes, the lineup caters to every lifestyle and job requirement.
Powerful engines:
If you’re like me, performance matters. With the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Check out the range of robust engines:
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| 4.3L V6 | 195 hp @ 4600 rpm | 260 hp @ 2800 rpm |
| 4.8L V8 | 302 hp @ 5600 rpm | 305 hp @ 4600 rpm |
| 5.3L V8 | 315 hp @ 5200 rpm | 335 hp @ 4000 rpm |
| 6.0L V8 Hybrid | 332 hp @ 5100 rpm | 367 hp @ 4100 rpm |
| 6.2L V8 | 403 hp @ 5700 rpm | 417 hp @ 4300 rpm |
Superior Towing and Payload Abilities:
If you’ve got a big haul, this truck is up to the challenge. With a towing capacity that peaks at a whopping 10,700 lbs and a standout payload capacity of up to 1,940 lbs, the 2012 Silverado 1500 is the go-to option for those daunting tasks you’ve been avoiding.
Cargo Volume:
When it comes to cargo space, you’ve got options. Depending on your needs, you can opt for:
- Long Bed: 75.50 cu. ft. of cargo volume for those extended hauling needs.
- Standard Bed: A solid 60.70 cu. ft., versatile enough for most tasks.
- Short Bed: Perfect for tighter spaces, offering 53.20 cu. ft.
Towing Capacity by Engines
Whether you’re a seasoned truck owner or in the market for a new set of wheels, you’re likely familiar with one key question: “How much can it tow?”
Let’s roll up our sleeves and delve deep into the towing and payload capacities of the various engine options for the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500.
Towing Capacity with 6.2L V8 Engine
Let’s kick things off with the powerhouse—the 6.2L V8. If you’ve got a boat, heavy-duty trailer, or even construction equipment to move around, this is your go-to.
I remember using this beast to tow my cousin’s sailboat last summer. With 403 hp @ 5700 rpm and 417 lb-ft of torque @ 4300 rpm, this machine doesn’t just talk the talk—it walks the walk.
With a remarkable GCWR of 16,000 lbs, the 6.2L V8 engine variant can handle a maximum payload of 1,908 lbs and provides a towing capacity of 10,700 lbs with MAX Trailering Package which makes it capable of towing heavy trailers.
- GCWR: 16,000 lbs
- Max Payload Capacity: 1,908 lbs
- Max Towing Capacity: 10,700 lbs
What It Means for You
The 6.2L V8 excels in heavy-duty tasks. Imagine comfortably hauling a four-horse trailer or an RV. Its towing capacity of 10,700 lbs, especially with the MAX Trailering Package, opens up a world of possibilities—from moving heavy machinery to effortlessly pulling large travel trailers.
Towing Capacity with 6.0L V8 Hybrid
Next up is the Silverado’s green thumb—the 6.0L V8 Hybrid. With 332 hp @ 5100 rpm and 367 lb-ft of torque @ 4100 rpm, you don’t have to sacrifice much in terms of power for a greener option.
With a GCWR of 12,000 lbs, the 6.2L V8 engine variant can handle a maximum payload of 1,527 lbs and provides a towing capacity of 6,100 lbs with MAX Trailering Package which makes it capable of towing heavy trailers.
- GCWR: 12,000 lbs
- Max Payload Capacity: 1,527 lbs
- Max Towing Capacity: 6,100 lbs
The 6.0L V8 Hybrid gives you the ability to tow a sizable trailer while minimizing your carbon footprint. Whether it’s a medium-sized boat or a utility trailer, you get decent towing and payload capabilities without guzzling gas like it’s going out of style.
Towing Capacity with 5.3L V8 Engine
If you’re like me and appreciate a balance between raw power and fuel efficiency, the 5.3L V8 is a treasure. With 315 hp @ 5200 rpm and 335 lb-ft of torque @ 4000 rpm, it’s more than capable for most tasks.
With a hefty GCWR of 15,000 lbs, the 5.3L V8 engine can accommodate an impressive payload of up to 1,757 lbs and tow a trailer weighing up to 10,000 lbs.
- GCWR: 15,000 lbs
- Max Payload Capacity: 1,757 lbs
- Max Towing Capacity: 10,000 lb
One can effortlessly tow his camper trailer for family vacations. This variant can also make short work of pulling a decent-sized boat or utility trailer. It offers a perfect blend of power and practicality.
Towing Capacity with 4.8L V8 Engine
If you have lighter tasks, like towing ATVs or small boats, or if you’re just getting into the world of towing, the 4.8L V8 is your cost-effective bet. With 302 hp @ 5600 rpm and 305 lb-ft of torque @ 4600 rpm, this engine won’t let you down.
Boasting a GCWR of 12,000 lbs, this engine setup can handle a maximum payload of 1,810 lbs. For conventional trailers, it has a towing capacity of up to 7,200 lbs.
- GCWR: 12,000 lbs
- Max Payload Capacity: 1,810 lbs
- Max Towing Capacity: 7,200 lbs
The 4.8L is great for weekend warriors who need to tow a pair of jet skis or a small horse trailer. It’s efficient, reliable, and won’t break the bank.
Towing Capacity with 4.3L V6 Engine
If your towing needs are on the lighter side, say a pair of dirt bikes or a small utility trailer, the 4.3L V6 will do the job without a hiccup. With 195 hp @ 4600 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque @ 2800 rpm, it’s the entry-level option that still delivers.
Boasting a GCWR of 10,000 lbs, this engine setup can handle a maximum payload of 1,940 lbs. For conventional trailers, it has a towing capacity of up to 5,400 lbs.
- GCWR: 10,000 lbs
- Max Payload Capacity: 1,940 lbs
- Max Towing Capacity: 5,400 lbs
If you’re a first-time truck owner or someone who uses their Silverado for lighter tasks, the 4.3L V6 strikes an excellent balance between performance and fuel economy.
Towing and Payload Capacity Charts
For your convenience, we’ve compiled charts with the official towing and payload capacity data for all models of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500, sourced directly from official resources.
Below are the charts that I’ve found from the official resources.
Payload Capacity by Engines
The 2012 Chevy Silverado’s Payload Capacity ranges from 1,509 to 1,940 lbs depending on the specific configuration of your truck.
Let’s take a look at the payload capacities for each configuration of the 2012 Silverado 1500. Here I’ve presented the data based on the engine option.
Regular Cab Payload Capacity
2012 Silverado 1500 Payload Capacity with Regular Cab can have a payload capacity ranging from 1,549 – 1,940 lbs depending on the specific truck configuration.
| Engine | Cab Style | GVWR | Box Style | Max Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec 4.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Standard Box 2WD | 1,940 |
| Vortec 4.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Long Box 2WD | 1,804 |
| Vortec 4.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Standard Box 4×4 | 1,714 |
| Vortec 4.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Long Box 4×4 | 1,549 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,800 | Long Box 4×4 | 1,827 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Standard Box 2WD | 1,810 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Long Box 2WD | 1,676 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Standard Box 4×4 | 1,598 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,800 | Long Box 4×4 | 1,794 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Standard Box 2WD | 1,757 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Long Box 2WD | 1,635 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 6,400 | Standard Box 4×4 | 1550 |
The possible configurations of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 with available engine options are presented in this chart.
Extended Cab Payload Capacity
2012 Silverado 1500 Payload Capacity with Extended Cab can have a payload capacity ranging from 1,515 – 1,908 lbs depending on the specific truck configuration.
| Engine | Cab Style | GVWR | Box Style | Max Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec 4.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 6,400 | Standard Box 2WD | 1,515 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Extended Cab | 7,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 1,726 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Extended Cab | 6,800 | Standard Box 2WD | 1,783 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 7,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 1,794 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 7,000 | Long Box 4×4 | 1,513 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 6,900 | Long Box 2WD | 1,641 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 6,800 | Standard Box 2WD | 1,755 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Extended Cab | 7,200 | Standard Box 4×4 | 1,835 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Extended Cab | 7,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 1,908 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Extended Cab | 7,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 1,671 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Extended Cab | 6,800 | Standard Box 2WD | 1,747 |
The possible configurations of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 with available engine options are presented in this chart.
Crew Cab Payload Capacity
2012 Silverado 1500 Payload Capacity with Crew Cab can have a payload capacity ranging from 1,509 – 1,937 lbs depending on the specific truck configuration.
| Engine | Cab Style | GVWR | Box Style | Max Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Extended Cab | 7,000 | Short Box 4×4 | 1,659 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Extended Cab | 6,800 | Short Box 2WD | 1,701 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 XFE | Extended Cab | 6,700 | Short Box 2WD | 1,648 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 7,000 | Short Box 4×4 | 1,712 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 6,800 | Short Box 2WD | 1,634 |
| Vortec 6.0L Hybrid | Extended Cab | 7,300 | Short Box 4×4 | 1,509 |
| Vortec 6.0L Hybrid | Extended Cab | 7,100 | Short Box 2WD | 1,537 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Extended Cab | 7,300 | Short Box 4×4 | 1,890 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Extended Cab | 7,100 | Short Box 2WD | 1,937 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Extended Cab | 7,000 | Short Box 4×4 | 1,626 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Extended Cab | 6,800 | Short Box 2WD | 1,675 |
The possible configurations of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 with available engine options are presented in this chart.
Conventional Trailer Towing Charts
The amount of weight that a vehicle can tow also depends on the type of trailers being towed due to different Gross Trailer Weights and hitching mechanisms. So, we’ve two types of charts; one for Conventional Trailers and the other for 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Trailers.
Conventional Trailer Towing – Regular Cab
As shown in the below table data, the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 with a Regular Cab has a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 lbs.
| Engine | Cab Style | Axle Ratio | GCWR (lbs) | Box Style | Conventional Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec 4.3L V6 | Regular Cab | 3.73 | 10,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 5,400 |
| Vortec 4.3L V6 | Regular Cab | 3.73 | 10,000 | Long Box 2WD | 5,200 |
| Vortec 4.3L V6 | Regular Cab | 3.73 | 10,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 5,100 |
| Vortec 4.3L V6 | Regular Cab | 3.73 | 10,000 | Long Box 4×4 | 4,900 |
| Vortec 4.3L V6 | Regular Cab | 3.23 | 9,500 | Standard Box 2WD | 4,800 |
| Vortec 4.3L V6 | Regular Cab | 3.23 | 9,500 | Long Box 2WD | 4,700 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.73 | 12,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 7,200 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.73 | 12,000 | Long Box 2WD | 7,100 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 11,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 6,000 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 11,000 | Long Box 4×4 | 5,800 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.23 | 10,000 | Long Box 2WD | 5,100 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.23 | 9,500 | Standard Box 2WD | 4,700 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Long Box 2WD | 10,000 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Long Box 4×4 | 9,800 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 14,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 9,100 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 14,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 8,900 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pack | Regular Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Long Box 2WD | 7,200 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pack | Regular Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Standard Box 4×4 | 7,100 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pack | Regular Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Long Box 4×4 | 7,000 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 XFE | Regular Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Standard Box 2WD | 7,400 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Standard Box 2WD | 6,600 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Long Box 2WD | 6,500 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Standard Box 4×4 | 6,400 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Regular Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Long Box 4×4 | 6,300 |
It’s important to note that the capacities in a regular cab vary depending on its configuration such as box, transmission, engine options, and axle ratio.
So, it’s important to consider these factors while looking for your truck’s towing capacity.
Conventional Trailer Towing – Extended Cab
As shown in the below table data, the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 with Extended Cab has a maximum towing capacity of 10,700 lbs.
| Engine | Cab Style | Axle Ratio | GCWR (lbs) | Box Style | Conventional Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec 4.3L V6 | Extended Cab | 3.23 | 9,500 | Standard Box 2WD | 4,400 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.73 | 12,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 6,700 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 11,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 5,500 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.23 | 10,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 4,700 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 9,700 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Long Box 2WD | 9,500 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 9,600 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Long Box 4×4 | 9,300 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Standard Box 2WD | 6,900 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Long Box 2WD | 6,700 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Standard Box 4×4 | 6,800 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Long Box 4×4 | 6,500 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Standard Box 2WD | 6,200 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Long Box 2WD | 6,000 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Standard Box 4×4 | 6,100 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Long Box 4×4 | 5,800 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Extended Cab | 3.73 | 16,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 10,700 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Extended Cab | 3.73 | 16,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 10,400 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 9,700 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 9,400 |
It’s important to note that the capacities in a regular cab vary depending on its configuration such as box, transmission, engine options, and axle ratio.
So, it’s important to consider these factors while looking for your truck’s towing capacity.
Conventional Trailer Towing – Crew Cab
As shown in the below table data, the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 with Crew Cab has a maximum towing capacity of 10,600 lbs.
| Engine | Cab Style | Axle Ratio | GCWR (lbs) | Box Style | Conventional Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Crew Cab | 3.73 | 12,000 | Short Box 2WD | 6,700 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Crew Cab | 3.42 | 11,000 | Short Box 4×4 | 5,500 |
| Vortec 4.8L V8 | Crew Cab | 3.23 | 10,000 | Short Box 2WD | 4,700 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Crew Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Short Box 2WD | 9,600 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Crew Cab | 3.42 | Short Box 4×4 | 9,500 | |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Crew Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Short Box 2WD | 6,900 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Crew Cab | 3.08 | Short Box 4×4 | 6,700 | |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 XFE | Crew Cab | 3.08 | 12,200 | Short Box 2WD | 7,000 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Crew Cab | 3.08 | 11,500 | Short Box 2WD | 6,200 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 | Crew Cab | 3.08 | Short Box 4×4 | 6,000 | |
| Vortec 6.0L Hybrid | Crew Cab | 3.08 | 12,000 | Short Box 2WD | 6,100 |
| Vortec 6.0L Hybrid | Crew Cab | 3.08 | Short Box 4×4 | 5,900 | |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Crew Cab | 3.73 | 16,000 | Short Box 2WD | 10,600 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Crew Cab | 3.73 | Short Box 4×4 | 10,400 | |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Crew Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Short Box 2WD | 9,700 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Crew Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Short Box 4×4 | 9,400 |
It’s important to note that the capacities in a regular cab vary depending on its configuration such as box, transmission, engine options, and axle ratio.
So, it’s important to consider these factors while looking for your truck’s towing capacity.
These charts provide an in-depth review of the specifications for each model, making it effortless for you to find the information you’re looking for.
You can trust that the data in these charts is accurate and reliable, as it’s been gathered from official and trustworthy sources.
Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing Charts
The 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 has a Max Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing rating of 10,700 lbs and a Max Payload Capacity of 1,940 lbs depending on your truck engine type and configuration.
5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing – Regular Cab
The 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Trailer towing limits for the regular cab configurations of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 range from 8,900 – 9,700 lbs with a GCWR limit of 14,000 lbs or 15,000 lbs depending on the specific configuration.
| Engine | Cab Style | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Box Style | 5th-Wheel Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Long Box 2WD | 8,900 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Long Box 4×4 | 9,700 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Regular Cab | 3.42 | 14,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 8,200 |
5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing – Extended Cab
The 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Trailer towing limits for the extended cab configurations of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 range from 8,100 – 10,600 lbs with a GCWR limit of 15,000 lbs or 16,000 lbs depending on the specific configuration.
| Engine | Cab Style | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Box Style | 5th-Wheel Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 9,400 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Long Box 2WD | 9,000 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 9,600 |
| Vortec 5.3L V8 Heavy-Duty Cooling Pkg | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Long Box 4×4 | 8,100 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Extended Cab | 3.73 | 16,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 10,600 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 MAX Trailering Pack | Extended Cab | 3.73 | 16,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 10,300 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Standard Box 2WD | 9,400 |
| Vortec 6.2L V8 | Extended Cab | 3.42 | 15,000 | Standard Box 4×4 | 9,100 |
The Crew Cab variant 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 doesn’t have 5th-wheel/Gooseneck trailer towing data.
The standard hitch and tow package of the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 can accommodate a wide array of trailers but you must have a Max Trailing Package or Heavy-Duty Cooling Package for 5th-wheel/Gooseneck or heavy trailters. These packages equip your truck with all the tools to tow up to the maximum limits of 10,700 lbs safely.
It’s important to know that fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing requires a specific kind of hitch that mounts in the bed of a pickup truck, and it’s typically used for towing larger, heavier trailers.
It is also important that your vehicle and your trailering combination do not exceed the tongue weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (RGAWR) limitations for your vehicle.
You can calculate the tongue weight by placing the tongue of the trailer on an appropriate scale.
For conventional trailering, the tongue weight should be 10% to 15% of the loaded trailer weight.
For fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailering, the tongue weight should be 15% to 25% of the loaded trailer weight.
Resources Used
2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Pickup Truck Brochure
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 proves itself to be a powerful and versatile truck with impressive towing and payload capacities.
With a towing capacity ranging from 4,400 – 10,700 lbs and a payload capacity ranging from 1,509 – 1,940 lbs, this exceptional vehicle is ready to handle a wide range of towing and hauling needs.
However, keep in mind, that these capacities aren’t rigid and can vary based on a number of factors such as engine type, model, GCWR, and the specific configurations you opt for.
To get the precise towing and payload capacities for your Silverado 1500, it’s recommended to refer to the owner’s manual or contact your nearest Chevrolet dealership.
The 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 – a robust powerhouse designed to fulfill all your towing and hauling needs with ease.
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