Howdy!
I have a 2004 Armada with the factory tow package, which my wife and I use to tow a 7000# travel trailer on camping vacations. We've mainly stuck to the sea level destinations around Texas, and did one recent trip to the Davis Mountains where we were about 5500 feet. Now we want to go to Colorado and Utah, but I'm concerned about the loss of power at high altitude (3% per 1000 feet). You can encounter mountain passes over 10,000 feet on some routes, and while I might avoid the highest ones, I can't avoid them all -- otherwise might as well stay home.

What kind of mod(s) would be most helpful to offset this loss due to thin air? I know a lot of people who tow in the mountains say "get a diesel", but I really like my Armada and don't want to give it up! A supercharger sounds like just the ticket, but that is one pricey mod, plus I've seen some cautions about blowing engines. How about some of the tuning options, or other ideas?

Thanks!

Charlie

If your problem is 3% per 1000ft a simple CAI and 2*AT will take care of that and it will set you back $300. and if that is not enough you can put a set of LT'S and that's all..

It's the diehard big 3 guys who are always saying to get a diesel for a 7k-lbs TT because the big 3 gas motors and drivetrains aren't as strong as ours. :D You shouldn't have any problems. The "Airbox Mod" will help you get more air into the intake and if you change your airfilter out for a clean one, you'll be good to go. My signature has a link to the Airbox Mod. You can get a tuner like the Superchips Flashpaq to retune your ECU with a Towing map, it does make a noticeable power difference.

In all honesty though, I wouldn't hesitate for one second to tow that TT through the mountains while completely stock, that's about the same weight as mine is. Personally, I've been manually downshifting while climbing hills to hold in the lower gear that it wants to be in to save it from gear hunting. The engine seems to really enjoy being held in the 3500-4200 RPM range while climbing. I've also been manually downshifting while going downhill to add some engine braking and save on the brake rotors' heat.

OK. That's what I needed to know!

Bob, re the towing map with the Flashpaq, is that a 91 octane map?

Thanks!

Charlie

I think it might recommend 91oct for "best performnance" but I always use 87oct because it doesn't seem to be much different.

Welcome to CA ChasRob!

My trailer isn't as heavy as yours, but I've towed through the mountains of California, Utah, Colorado, etc., at 10,000 feet and beyond, without any issues. Don't worry, your Armada will handle it. Just watch your trans temp, and keep the revs up on the steepest hills.

Keith

Thanks, guys! Really appreciate the help! Great forum!

Charlie