2003 Avalache

When I bought my 02 Avy I thought about getting the 8.1, but at the time I only had a popup, and the 5.3 got bad enough MPG.

My Avy will be 13 years old in a couple weeks, and it has been a solid vehicle. Yes, things are starting to break, but that's to be expected. The engine and drivertrain have had ZERO problems.

The 8.1 is a total beast - you can tow a lot more than the TT mentioned.

I am also ticked that Chevy decided to bag the Avy. When this one dies, I will have to find a used Avy or get a Silverado instead, but I won't be as happy.... :(

The versatility of the Avy is unsurpassed. I have used it hundreds of times to pick up or move everything such as building supplies, pools, BBQ grills, appliances, firewood, furniture, etc. It's probably saved me thousands in delivery charges and was invaluable in moving family members and friends.

The lockable compartments on the sides really come in handy, especially when camping.

Never put a 6.0 in a 2500 avalanche.
I looked for one for a long time and finaly just give up
Still kinda wish I could have found one that I liked that was stating to rust.

2500 Avalanche 8.1 Big Block


I may trade my 6.0 Sub for this 8.1 Big Block Lobbed off Sub.

gunner65 wrote:
Just sold an 04 avalanche 1500. Our trailer is close to 6k dry and the 1500 was just a bit to under gunned but I really liked that truck.

It seems like everyone who has owned one liked it. When we shopped for our TT we like most looked at weight. We happened on ours and the dry weight was almost unbelievable for a fiberglass. The actual build of the unit is compatible to many out there, it has all the goodies except fireplace. The weight difference is things like laminate counter (to look like granite) instead of solid surface.

Just sold an 04 avalanche 1500. Our trailer is close to 6k dry and the 1500 was just a bit to under gunned but I really liked that truck.

We had a 2003 Avalanche 4x4 1500. We loved it

We now have a 2012 Avalanche. V8 4x4 5.3. We our 27QBSS 30' TT, 4102 dry weight with no problem. We have a weight distribution with anti sway. We occasionally pull our 16' princecraft behind the TT and don't feel it there.

Enjoy your Avalanche and TT. We feel GM has made a huge mistake in the decision not to make them anymore. We are however very biased.

We used to have a 2005 1500 av (5.3l motor, 3.42 axle ratio) and we towed a 22' TT around the same weight as yours. It was a great vehicle, and towed the trailer well. I added air bags in the rear coil springs to reduce porpoising bounce effect, and the handling was excellent after that. I also added Yakima towers, cross bars and bike racks on top of the bed cover, and a mega warrior roof basket on the factory roof cross bars. We could carry a 16' canoe and two adult bikes, and still have dry storage in the bed for other gear. The 8.1 l should tow your camper with ease.

I love seeing 2500 avalanche.

Wow. I didn't know they even put the 8.1 in an Avalanche. The 8.1 is such an uncommon motor anyway, that this surprises me. That's a great engine that has never seen a gas station it didn't like. You'll be just fine!

Hi There.
Your 2003 Chevy Avalanche 2500 is a pretty rare truck. Not very many 2003- 2500s out there. (I have the other one) :0)

You have a 4:10 rear end so your mileage isn't going to get much better than 10.5 which is what we average with nearly the same numbers on the interstate at 60 mph.

Awesome truck- we love ours and are getting ready to make a Michigan to Texas run this fall.

Edwardavion- Lake Ann Michigan.