Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity: Every Year, Every Trim (2020–2026)

If you live in Kirksville or anywhere in northeast Missouri, the Chevy Silverado 1500 is a natural choice when you need a truck that can tow campers, boats, and work trailers with confidence. From the 2020 model year up through the latest 2026 Silverado 1500, Chevy has focused on serious capability, smart towing tech, and a wide range of engines so you can match your truck to your lifestyle.

This guide walks through Silverado 1500 towing capacity from 2020–2026, explains how ratings work, and shares towing and maintenance tips—so you’re ready when you visit <a href="/" aria-label="Kirksville Motor Company home">Kirksville Motor Company</a> to <a href="/inventory" aria-label="Shop inventory at Kirksville Motor Company">shop new or used Silverado 1500 trucks</a>.

<hr>

<h2>Unveiling the Towing Capacity of Chevy Silverado 1500</h2>

Across recent generations, the Silverado 1500 has offered light-duty capability with big-truck numbers. In the right configuration, most model years from 2020 onward can tow well over 10,000 pounds, with top ratings around 13,300–13,400 pounds when properly equipped. (<a href="https://www.stinnettchevy.com/2026-chevy-silverado-1500-specs.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2026 Chevy Silverado 1500 Specs">Stinnett Chevrolet Buick</a>)

Here’s a quick year-by-year overview of maximum conventional towing (bumper-pull, not 5th-wheel/gooseneck):

<ul>
<li>2020 Silverado 1500 – Max towing: up to 13,400 lbs with the 6.2L V8, Max Trailering Package, and the right RST configuration. Base engines tow closer to 7,000–9,400 lbs. (<a href="https://www.terrylabontechevy.com/2020-chevrolet-silverado-1500-towing-capacity/?srsltid=AfmBOoqGl02UI_xpUZzhR1yGeg7-Ilzv6QCtVtp1oATixIg535E0lrc2&utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">terrylabontechevy.com</a>)</li>
<li>2021 Silverado 1500 – Max towing: up to 13,300 lbs when properly equipped with the 6.2L V8; other engines range roughly from 7,900 to the low 11,000s. (<a href="https://www.terrylabontechevy.com/2021-chevrolet-silverado-1500-towing-capacity/?srsltid=AfmBOoqwfSdhfq6LNNELdQ8lpw4AWRXFwfSBaqgEKmm6lRfY-MhjKWjG&utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">terrylabontechevy.com</a>)</li>
<li>2022 Silverado 1500 – Chevy’s trailering charts and dealer spec pages continue to show max ratings around 13,300 lbs, similar to 2021 and 2023, depending on engine, axle, and package. (<a href="https://www.chevrolet.com/content/dam/chevrolet/na/us/english/index/vehicle-groups/trailering-and-towing/trucks/03-pdfs/2021-Silverado1500-and-Trail_Boss-TraileringChart-v7.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2021 silverado 1500 max trailering1">Chevrolet</a>)</li>
<li>2023 Silverado 1500 – Max towing: up to 13,300 lbs with the 6.2L V8 or Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel in the right configuration. (<a href="https://www.waltmasseychevroletgmccolumbia.com/2023-chevy-silverado-1500-towing-capacity/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">Walt Massey Chevrolet GMC Columbia</a>)</li>
<li>2024 Silverado 1500 – Max towing: up to 13,300 lbs; the range runs from about 8,800 to 13,300 lbs depending on engine and configuration. (<a href="https://www.mynschevy.com/chevrolet-research/chevy-silverado-towing-capacity/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">Northside Chevrolet</a>)</li>
<li>2025 Silverado 1500 – Chevy’s 2025 trailering charts continue to list maximum conventional towing around 13,300 lbs on properly equipped trucks, with lower ratings on smaller engines and certain cab/bed combos. (<a href="https://www.chevrolet.com/content/dam/chevrolet/na/us/english/index/vehicle-groups/trailering-and-towing/trucks/06-pdfs/25CW-ChevyTrailering-Charts-Silverado-1500.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2025 Silverado 1500 Max Trailering1">Chevrolet</a>)</li>
<li>2026 Silverado 1500 – Max towing: up to 13,300 lbs with either the 6.2L V8 or the latest Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel, plus strong payload figures up to about 2,260 lbs. (<a href="https://www.stinnettchevy.com/2026-chevy-silverado-1500-specs.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2026 Chevy Silverado 1500 Specs">Stinnett Chevrolet Buick</a>)</li>
</ul>

For drivers around Kirksville, that means both new 2026 trucks and used 2020–2024 Silverado 1500 models at Kirksville Motor Company can easily cover the needs of most campers, boats, and work trailers—if you pick the right configuration.

<hr>

<h2>Engine Options and Towing Capacity</h2>

Towing isn’t just about the badge on the tailgate; it’s about what’s under the hood and how the truck is set up. From 2020–2026, the Silverado 1500 has offered a mix of gas and diesel engines:

<h3>Turbo Four-Cylinder (2.7L / TurboMax)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Standard engine on many recent Silverado 1500 trims.</li>
<li>Newer “TurboMax” versions make around 310 hp and up to 430 lb-ft of torque. (<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GM_L3B_engine?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="GM L3B engine">Wikipedia</a>)</li>
<li>Max towing typically ranges from about 7,000–9,500 lbs depending on year, drive type, and axle ratio. (<a href="https://www.terrylabontechevy.com/2020-chevrolet-silverado-1500-towing-capacity/?srsltid=AfmBOoqGl02UI_xpUZzhR1yGeg7-Ilzv6QCtVtp1oATixIg535E0lrc2&utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">terrylabontechevy.com</a>)</li>
</ul>
This engine is great if you tow medium-size utility trailers, small campers, or fishing boats around northeast Missouri, but don’t need max numbers every weekend.

<h3>4.3L V6 (Primarily 2020–2021)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Older base V6 on early fifth-gen trucks.</li>
<li>Delivers around 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque with towing capacities up to about 7,900 lbs. (<a href="https://www.chevroletcenter.com/2020-silverado-1500-towing-capacity/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">Chevrolet Center</a>)</li>
</ul>
If you’re shopping used 2020–2021 Silverado 1500 at Kirksville Motor Company, this engine works well for lighter towing and daily driving.

<h3>5.3L EcoTec3 V8</h3>
<ul>
<li>Common V8 on many trims.</li>
<li>Makes roughly 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. (<a href="https://www.mynschevy.com/chevrolet-research/chevy-silverado-towing-capacity/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">Northside Chevrolet</a>)</li>
<li>Max towing usually lands around 11,000–11,600 lbs when properly equipped. (<a href="https://www.mynschevy.com/chevrolet-research/chevy-silverado-towing-capacity/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">Northside Chevrolet</a>)</li>
</ul>
This is a sweet spot for Kirksville drivers who tow mid-size campers, car haulers, or heavier equipment trailers a few times a month.

<h3>6.2L EcoTec3 V8</h3>
<ul>
<li>Top gas engine with about 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. (<a href="https://www.chevroletcenter.com/2020-silverado-1500-towing-capacity/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">Chevrolet Center</a>)</li>
<li>On properly equipped trucks, it delivers max towing of 13,300–13,400 lbs depending on model year. (<a href="https://www.markwahlbergchevycolumbus.com/2020-chevy-silverado-1500-towing-capacity-columbus-oh.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">markwahlbergchevycolumbus.com</a>)</li>
</ul>
If you’ve got a larger camper or heavier trailer and want strong acceleration on US-63 or I-35, this is the engine you’ll want to focus on.

<h3>Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel I-6</h3>
<ul>
<li>Early versions make around 277 hp and 460 lb-ft, with newer tunes up to 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. (<a href="https://www.rickhendrickchevy.com/manufacturer-information/chevy-silverado-1500-towing-capacity/?srsltid=AfmBOoqfXIct-7JasyeY-FSz95BnblRUJwGuKIvi4t7VLGN_LRbbPLor&utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Charleston</a>)</li>
<li>In newer Silverado 1500 models, this engine can tow up to 13,300 lbs when properly equipped. (<a href="https://www.rickhendrickchevy.com/manufacturer-information/chevy-silverado-1500-towing-capacity/?srsltid=AfmBOoqfXIct-7JasyeY-FSz95BnblRUJwGuKIvi4t7VLGN_LRbbPLor&utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing Capacity">Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Charleston</a>)</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Important: The same engine can have different tow ratings depending on cab style, bed length, axle ratio, drivetrain, and whether the truck has a Max Trailering Package. Always check the specific rating for the Silverado 1500 you’re considering. (<a href="https://www.chevrolet.com/content/dam/chevrolet/na/us/english/index/vehicle-groups/trailering-and-towing/trucks/05-pdfs/2024-Silverado1500-Trailering-Chart-v04.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2024 SILVERADO 1500 MAX TRAILERING1">Chevrolet</a>)
</blockquote>

<hr>

<h2>Understanding Towing Capacity Ratings</h2>

When you start comparing numbers on spec sheets or window stickers at Kirksville Motor Company, you’ll see several key ratings:
<ul>
<li>Maximum Conventional Towing Capacity – The highest weight your Silverado 1500 can tow with a standard hitch, assuming a lightly loaded truck and proper equipment.</li>
<li>GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) – The maximum weight of the truck itself when loaded with passengers, cargo, and tongue weight from the trailer.</li>
<li>GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) – The max allowed weight of your loaded truck plus loaded trailer together.</li>
<li>Payload Capacity – How much weight you can put in the cab and bed (including tongue weight).</li>
<li>Tongue Weight – The downward force the trailer places on the hitch; Chevy generally recommends 10–15% of the trailer’s loaded weight for conventional towing. (<a href="https://www.chevrolet.com/content/dam/chevrolet/na/us/english/index/vehicle-groups/trailering-and-towing/trucks/07-pdfs/CH-CAT-GEN-TRBRND020_2025%20Chevrolet%20Trailering%20Guide.indd.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2025 Trailering Guide">Chevrolet</a>)</li>
</ul>

Even if your Silverado 1500 is rated to tow 13,300 lbs, loading the truck with people, tools, and gear reduces how much trailer you can safely pull. Staying within all of these numbers—not just the headline towing figure—is the key to safe, drama-free towing.

<hr>

<h2>Tips for Towing Safely in and Around Kirksville</h2>

Once you’ve matched the right Silverado 1500 to your trailer, use these tips to tow with confidence on Missouri roads:
<ol>
<li>Know your real-world weights
<ul>
<li>Weigh your loaded trailer and, if possible, your truck + trailer together at a local scale to verify you’re within GCWR, GVWR, and tow ratings. (<a href="https://www.chevrolet.com/content/dam/chevrolet/na/us/english/index/vehicle-groups/trailering-and-towing/trucks/07-pdfs/CH-CAT-GEN-TRBRND020_2025%20Chevrolet%20Trailering%20Guide.indd.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2025 Trailering Guide">Chevrolet</a>)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Aim for proper tongue weight & load balance
<ul>
<li>Keep about 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight on the hitch and around 60% of cargo in the front half of a typical trailer to reduce sway. (<a href="https://www.chevrolet.com/content/dam/chevrolet/na/us/english/index/vehicle-groups/trailering-and-towing/trucks/07-pdfs/CH-CAT-GEN-TRBRND020_2025%20Chevrolet%20Trailering%20Guide.indd.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2025 Trailering Guide">Chevrolet</a>)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Use the right equipment
<ul>
<li>Choose a hitch, ball mount, and weight-distribution system (if needed) that meet or exceed your trailer’s weight.</li>
<li>Make sure your Silverado has an integrated trailer brake controller and 7-pin wiring if your trailer has brakes.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Leverage Silverado trailering tech
<ul>
<li>Newer Silverado 1500 trucks can offer multiple camera views plus features like trailer sway control and Tow/Haul mode, which help with visibility, braking, and gear selection on the rolling hills around Kirksville. (<a href="https://www.chevrolet.com/content/dam/chevrolet/na/us/english/index/vehicle-groups/trailering-and-towing/trucks/07-pdfs/CH-CAT-GEN-TRBRND020_2025%20Chevrolet%20Trailering%20Guide.indd.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="2025 Trailering Guide">Chevrolet</a>)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Drive for the conditions
<ul>
<li>Take curves on MO-6 or county roads slower than usual, leave extra following distance, and start braking earlier—especially in rain, snow, or gravel.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>

<hr>

<h2>Maintenance and Upkeep for Towing</h2>

Towing puts extra stress on your Silverado 1500, so staying on top of maintenance is crucial—especially if you’re regularly hauling around northeast Missouri.
<ul>
<li>Oil and fluids: Heavy towing can make engine oil and transmission fluid break down faster. Sticking to (or even tightening) the maintenance schedule is a smart move if you tow often. (<a href="https://www.allenturnerchevrolet.com/blog/chevy-silverado-maintenance-schedule/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="Ultimate Guide to the Chevy Silverado Maintenance ...">Allen Turner Chevrolet</a>)</li>
<li>Brakes: Towing demands more from your brake pads, rotors, and fluid. Have them inspected regularly and don’t ignore squeaks, vibration, or longer stopping distances. (<a href="https://www.dyerchevylakewales.com/blogs/5408/how-towing-affects-your-service-schedule?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="How Towing Affects Your Service Schedule">Dyer Chevrolet Lake Wales</a>)</li>
<li>Tires & suspension: Extra weight accelerates wear on rear tires, shocks, and springs. Rotate tires on schedule and have suspension components checked if you notice sagging or bouncing when hitched. (<a href="https://www.dyerchevylakewales.com/blogs/5408/how-towing-affects-your-service-schedule?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="How Towing Affects Your Service Schedule">Dyer Chevrolet Lake Wales</a>)</li>
<li>Cooling system: Towing up hills or in summer heat makes the engine and transmission work harder. Regular coolant and radiator inspections help prevent overheating on long drives. (<a href="https://www.dyerchevylakewales.com/blogs/5408/how-towing-affects-your-service-schedule?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" title="How Towing Affects Your Service Schedule">Dyer Chevrolet Lake Wales</a>)</li>
<li>Hitch & wiring: Before each trip, inspect your hitch hardware, safety chains, and wiring connections for rust, damage, or loose bolts.</li>
</ul>

When in doubt, the <a href="/service" aria-label="Kirksville Motor Company Service Department">service team at Kirksville Motor Company</a> can help you set up a maintenance plan tailored to how often and how heavily you tow.

<hr>

<h2>Conclusion: Get the Most from Your Silverado 1500 in Kirksville</h2>

From 2020 to 2026, the Chevy Silverado 1500 has delivered towing capacity that easily covers most campers, boats, and work trailers—especially when equipped with the 5.3L, 6.2L, or Duramax diesel engines. Understanding how towing ratings work, staying within your limits, and keeping up with maintenance will help you get the best performance and longest life from your truck.

If you’re ready to find a new or used Chevy Silverado 1500 that fits your towing needs, visit <a href="/" aria-label="Kirksville Motor Company">Kirksville Motor Company</a>. The team can walk you through specific tow ratings by VIN, help you compare engines and packages, and make sure your next truck is ready for everything you tow around northeast Missouri.

<hr>

<h3>Suggested Visual Assets for the Blog Post</h3>
<ol>
<li>Infographic showing 2020–2026 Silverado 1500 engines with their approximate max towing capacities.</li>
<li>Short video overview or embedded OEM video walking through towing features and Tow/Haul mode on a newer Silverado 1500.</li>
<li>Downloadable or inline checklist graphic for Silverado 1500 towing maintenance and pre-trip safety checks.</li>
</ol>

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