Towing performance

Hey everyone,
I have a 2013 crewmax with a 5.7 and tow a 19' toyhauler, sometimes with my rhino loaded, sometimes not. Trailer dry weight is 5,690 and rhino is about 900 so combined with all of our shit is about 7,000#. As most of you that do tow know, gas mileage sucks the big one. I knew that getting into the truck and it's not a huge concern.

With that being said, what have some of you done to maybe help performance while towing so that it doesn't sting so bad? I have already pulled the carbon filter thing. Some other things I am considering is an afe drop in filter and a BA muffler budget system. I am on a budget ($500) so superchargers are out of the question. I don't have plans for a lift, or bigger tires. What have others done for towing performance?

Thanks and happy towing

Greg

My set up

 

Good list of items there. Especially the plastidip lol! I've read about the hyper tech interceptor. And like you said no need for a cai if using it. I don't know if I really want a cai anyways just based on how our trucks Intake system is already set up. Thanks csuviper...who else has good eye dears?

Thanks

Greg

 

The afe wont do a thing for you except aid in dropping your low end tq. I second the interceptor and yes, a bamuffler is the way to go. Since you tow a lot, do not do dual exhaust. That also changes where your tq is on the powerband, losing low end tq. If you dont mind the sound of exhaust rumbling the whole time you tow, BAmuffler has a budget system thats about 300 bucks. With that and the hypertech, you would be out of pocket about 700. If you dont want the noise, Keith (dirtydeeds/BAmuffler) can make you one that isnt that loud. All of his have Helmholtz resonators that eliminate drone. If you can only afford one, go with the exhaust first, single out, not dual. It will give about 10 extra hp and 20 tq. The extra low end will help a tad on your mpg.

 

Respectfully, I disagree with part of your post. Anytime you increase efficiency of the motor, gaining hp, you are going to get better mpg. If you add to cylinder size, etc, you may add hp and get worse mph. But the easier your truck can get the load moving, the less fuel you will waste. IE, better mpg.

For example, the hypertech interceptor. It increases efficiency of the motor giving 1-2 mpg on avg. at the same time you will get hp and tq gain. It's been dyno'd and many people that run it report better mpg.

Increasing efficiency is the key here.

 

Thank you for the information on the afe filter. What is your opinion, or anyone elses opinion at that, on the TRD filters? Same loss in low end torque? I have talked to Keith about the BA muffler and the budget system setup with the heimholtz on it. I am not a fan of drone so quieter is definitely better. I just cant fork out the $800 or so for the 10" muffler set up. Thank you for your insight and opinion TT

Yep I have realized the gas sucks (literally) while towing. Thats why I was asking for other folks opinions/tips tricks. But you did hit a good point on the aerodynamics part. Thats a big main reason why I wont be lifting my truck anytime soon (maybe if I hit the lotto). I want to stay as aerodynamic and close to stock as possible. Ive considered a shell or tonneau cover, but again, the added weight may not out weigh any potential gains. I also appreciate your input and insight JB