I've searched the archives for an answer, but no luck so here goes -
I bought an '08 AWD and need to tow a 2 horse trailer (6900lbs loaded). I will install the prodigy brake controller but have questions about equalizer hitches and the autoride system. Since I don't like the chains in most equalizer hitch systems, I'm planning to purchase a sway control/ load equalizer hitch from Equal-i-zer (Progress Mfg in OR). After a long discussion with thier engineers today, they expressed that I need to disable the autoleveling airbags to gain the true benefit of any brand's equalizer hitch. The engineers expressed that when the airbags inflate, all of the weight is on the real axle; thus, making the equalizer hitch useless. The equalizer hitches are designed to place equal weight on the front and rear axle of the tow vehicle. In addition, it is impossible to correctly setup (level) the equalizer hitch with the airbags auto inflating.
Has anyone found a way to disable the airbags? Nothing in the manual... Service mgr at dealer is useless.
Another Q. - Do I need to add a fuse for the brake controller and another for the hotwire lead?
Welcome to the Forum. I have towed a 26 ft enclosed trailer all over, it weighs a little over 7k lbs, have not had any issues or problems and I tow thru the mountains, I am sure you can disconnect your rear air ride, just not sure you have to, or why you would want to, these trucks are made to tow.
__________________ Carl V.
**Authorized Zaino Distributor **
**Authorized Amsoil Dealer**
I am pulling a large 2 horse slant trailer with my 07 EXT. loaded weight is about 7k. I have considerable experience with towing and see no reason to disable the air bags, in fact I found it helpful. Air bags are installed on many vehicles to assist with the load, I do agree that finding the correct drop receiver is a choir. Remember when towing, the tongue weight is really the critical factor and it should be about 10% of the loaded weight, (certainly within the vehicle parameters to carry). I think if you disabled the bags you would find the vehicle springs alone labored to carry the weight. As far as safety the big factor is the rated hitch installed from GM, it is only rated for 5k and should be 7.5k or better. The vehicle (or most) are pre wired for a controller, the dealer can make the connection under the hood at the fuse block with the factory wires, the brake controller wires should be next to the OBD port or the diagnostics plug. Be sure to buy a quality controller! I used a tecnosha P3.
what GVWR is your vehicle rated? if you have the power brake boost then you have the heavy duty, if you have a big drum looking thing on your firewall you have the lower duty towing. but either way, idk if i would screw with the airride
I am pulling a large 2 horse slant trailer with my 07 EXT. loaded weight is about 7k. I have considerable experience with towing and see no reason to disable the air bags, in fact I found it helpful. Air bags are installed on many vehicles to assist with the load, I do agree that finding the correct drop receiver is a choir. Remember when towing, the tongue weight is really the critical factor and it should be about 10% of the loaded weight, (certainly within the vehicle parameters to carry). I think if you disabled the bags you would find the vehicle springs alone labored to carry the weight. As far as safety the big factor is the rated hitch installed from GM, it is only rated for 5k and should be 7.5k or better. The vehicle (or most) are pre wired for a controller, the dealer can make the connection under the hood at the fuse block with the factory wires, the brake controller wires should be next to the OBD port or the diagnostics plug. Be sure to buy a quality controller! I used a tecnosha P3.
R,
jdc
What? The hitch on the Escalade is Class IV, therefore it is good for up to 10k lbs - where are you getting the 5k rating?
I have towed a 26 ft enclosed trailer all over, it weighs a little over 7k lbs, have not had any issues or problems and I tow thru the mountains, I am sure you can disconnect your rear air ride, just not sure you have to, or why you would want to, these trucks are made to tow. 
