Hi all. I need some clarification on axles for towing with a 2014 Tahoe. Tow guides say 3.42 axle for over 8000# compared to 5200# for the 3.08 axle. It seems that there are (were) 2 different axles made. One is an 8-1/2" rear and the other a 9-1/2". Both are designated GU6, which is what Chevy calls for to tow the heavier weights.
My question is - Is the ratio the determining factor? Or is it really the increased capacity of the 9-1/2" rear? I can't find any info on this. It makes much more sense to me that the size of the parts can boost towing capaciy by 3000# that simply changing the gear ratio.
My question is - Is the ratio the determining factor? Or is it really the increased capacity of the 9-1/2" rear? I can't find any info on this. It makes much more sense to me that the size of the parts can boost towing capaciy by 3000# that simply changing the gear ratio.