2004 3/4 ton Suburban with the Big Block 8.1
Hi Folks, Some of you might remember about a year and a half ago, I was contemplating buying the Suburban in my subject line. Well I've got it and while I like the vehicle, I've come to unders...
Forum Discussion
ksu_j wrote:the_happiestcamper wrote:ksu_j wrote:
driving something empty down the road and getting 10mpg (like I did at Thanksgiving) vs 16 or 17mpg that I MAYBE could get with a 6.0 and 6 speed
If you're only get 10 empty on highway, then I doubt you'll get 16-17 with the other. I get 12-13 on highway half empty, depending on whether I drive 70-80 or 80-90.
I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong if I've only gotten 12mpg on one tank of gas with this thing empty. And that was driving through Missouri on state roads not interstate, doing mostly 60-65. As dumb as it sounds if I could get 12-13 consistently with this thing on the highway I could probably somewhat be ok with that. But 10mpg just sucks. Heck there are some MH's that'll do that.... I almost wonder if it's a tire issue because I do have some rather small tires 245/65's with 4/10's. If I keep this, I might jump up to 265's or 285's to see if that effectively lowers the gear ratios a bit.
There is a member on here, I think APT that says 17 to 17.5 is not out of the question on a newer 6.0/6speed 3/4 ton suburban? So not sure how me thinking I can get 17 is out of question? I don't drive especially hard or anything. Heck, I used to get 16 out of my 2005 Yukon XL Denali with the 6.0 and 4 speed with AWD?
One time I got 14 mpg in mine with the 8.1. I went 300 miles, never going over 60 mph with a breeze at my back.
I could consistently get 11 mpg until I put all terrain tires on the truck. It then dropped to 10. So you are doing nothing wrong.
I was in your situation, but I got a chance to tow my trailer with a 6.0/6sp and 3.73 combination. I was completely satisfied for my towing distances and location. I also liked the new features that the older vehicle was missing.
Now, with the 3500 Express, I actually have a "better for me" vehicle. It tows my trailer here in Michigan, it can haul 12 individuals when needed, it holds 4x8 sheets inside, and it can be purchased Certified Used for under $25k that includes 2 years of maintenance and warranty. It does not spoil the passengers with comfort like other vehicles, but we do not use the Express that often.
