I'm looking for some experienced advice concerning putting a small camper on a '97 GMC Sierra 1500 short bed 4x4 with the Z71 'off-road' package. I call GMC, gave them my VIN, and they said the dry weight is 4600 lbs, with a base payload of 1600 lbs. (which agrees with the labelled GVW) However a certified truck scale shows 5200 lbs with 1/2 tank gas and no driver (200 lbs). That would leave only about 700 lbs total payload. Something is amiss, but be that as it may, does anyone have experience or expert opinion on loading this vehicle? (I realize the loading sticker in the glove box says - camper not recommended) I'm driving to Alaska for a couple of months, and just need minimal interior facilities. I c/would use a popup model, so that the cg would stay low, but even 'reasonable' popups go from 1100 to 1300 lbs. (pulling a small travel trailer is a poor 2nd option) Thanks.
- posted
19 years ago