5.3 vs 6.0

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Brian Orion - 11 Nov 2004 05:41 GMT

Coming into some money next year and want to tow about 7000lbs.I test
drove a 1/2 ton with the 5.3 and it seemed like tons of power.I notice
that the new 3/4 ton only comes with 6.0 or larger.Is the 5.3 adequate
for my towing needs?If so I may get a used 3/4 with the 5.3 and the
better gas mileage.Is the 6.0 that much better?
Thanks..Brian

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Dom - 12 Nov 2004 00:06 GMT

Go big if you can. I had a 5.3 puling 5,000 lbs, on level ground it was OK.
Forget about he hills. if your really worried about mileage, go for the
drama/Allison. you can pull 7,000 with no issue. Pulling 5,000 up and down
hills I average 15.5 mpg, unloaded doing 60 - 65 I get 19 - 20 mpg.

Good luck

> Coming into some money next year and want to tow about 7000lbs.I test
> drove a 1/2 ton with the 5.3 and it seemed like tons of power.I notice
> that the new 3/4 ton only comes with 6.0 or larger.Is the 5.3 adequate
> for my towing needs?If so I may get a used 3/4 with the 5.3 and the
> better gas mileage.Is the 6.0 that much better?
> Thanks..Brian

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John Banister - 13 Nov 2004 15:02 GMT

I think it depends on how often you tow. I have a 5.3 and regularly pull a
2000# trailer with 6 500# calves in it with no problem. Sets on 65 mph. I
imagine the 6.0 is better, but gas mileage is less. Most report around 12
mpg with the 6.0, untrailered. I get 18 mpg on the highway with my 5.3,
untrailered. For my use the gas savings are worth the 20 less horsepower.

-John

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