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falconbrother's avatar
falconbrother
Explorer II
May 13, 2014

GM 5.3 vs. Ford 5.4

I have been tire kicking the 5.3 Chevrolet 1500 Suburbans and the 5.4 Ford Expeditions. From talking to people I get the feeling that the Ford 5.4 is the better tow vehicle. Any thoughts on these two for towing?

49 Replies

  • I've had 2 Tahoe's (5.3) and Suburban (5.3) and a Ford F-150 (5.4). The 5.3 is a great engine in the Tahoe, seemed a little under powered for the burb though, and I wasn't towing. They make a 3/4ton burb with the 6.0, that would be great. Or a Denali GMC YukonXL with a 6.0.

    If you are towing over 5,000lbs then I suggest a 6.0 Chevy.
  • Terryallan wrote:
    Me I like the 5.4. But then I'm biased. I like Fords. Having said that. My SIL has a 2013 Suburban with the 5.3. It has a hard time getting out of its own way. I wouldn't think of hooking anything to it. But I don't know what gear it has.


    That was my thoughts when we had a 2010 Tahoe with the 5.3.
  • What are you wanting to tow? Both engines have been around quite awhile and have a track record. I have been more than happy with the 5.3 when I used it for what it was intended. It likely will just boil down to your preference.
  • Drive both, They are very different. Suburban has a solid rear axle that makes a difference . Fuel economy is very different .
  • The latest version of the 5.4L was a decent small motor for towing within its limits.
  • Me I like the 5.4. But then I'm biased. I like Fords. Having said that. My SIL has a 2013 Suburban with the 5.3. It has a hard time getting out of its own way. I wouldn't think of hooking anything to it. But I don't know what gear it has.
  • I like the Excursion based on the F-250. It will have more weight than the trailer, a advantage in windy conditions.

    I guess it depends on the trailer's hitch weight and number of passengers you plan on.

    Fred.
  • I like the Surburban with the solid rear axle. They both have coil spring suspensions.