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IBcarguy's avatar
IBcarguy
Explorer
Mar 22, 2016

Here we go again....6.0 liter a good TV?

I know this has been kicked around a hundred times but I need more input. I have a new TT, 31.5' overall length, about 6000 dry weight. Since I can't afford a Duramax, I've been looking at a 2013 GM 2500 4x4 crew cab with the 6.0 liter V8. Most of my towing will be in Northern CA which isn't exactly flat...a lot of towing into the Sierra mountains on camping trips. My old TV was a 1998 Suburban 2500 with a 454 but it's getting tired and needs to retire from towing.Truth is, I wasn't very happy with the performance of the 454 anyway. The 6.0 with the 6 speed trans seems like the likely choice but I would hate to spend this much money if I would be disappointed with the towing ability of this truck. Wish I could rent one for a test tow. Anyone out there towing with the 6.0 with a TT comparable to mine?
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29 Replies

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  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Mar 23, 2016
    IBcarguy wrote:
    Thanks for the input. The Youtube video wasn't too encouraging but I would never be pulling that much weight. I think I better check which gear ratio this truck has before I pull the trigger. I probably should keep looking if it doesn't have 4.10 gears.


    Due to area you drive, I would be sure to get 4.10s. IIRC, in 14 they dropped 3.73, and were 4.10 only.

    Jerry
  • IBcarguy's avatar
    IBcarguy
    Explorer
    Mar 23, 2016
    Thanks for the input. The Youtube video wasn't too encouraging but I would never be pulling that much weight. I think I better check which gear ratio this truck has before I pull the trigger. I probably should keep looking if it doesn't have 4.10 gears.
  • WyoTraveler's avatar
    WyoTraveler
    Explorer
    Mar 23, 2016
    I've towed stock trailers with the 6.8 V10 4.1 rear axle. Ford now offers a 6.2 V8 with a 4.3 rear axle. If I was looking at Chev with 6.0 V8 I would also be looking at 4.3 rear axle. Maybe a little slow on steep grades but not a big deal.
  • TomG2's avatar
    TomG2
    Explorer
    Mar 23, 2016
    I have had a 07. 09, and 2013 Silverado with the 6.0 L engine. All towed well and the later models with the six speed did very well. My only complaint is fuel mileage. 7-8 mpg towing 6,000 pound trailers, 10-12 mpg around town.
  • kw_00's avatar
    kw_00
    Explorer
    Mar 23, 2016
    See sig below, love mine, much improved over the past 4 speed version that I had a few years ago.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Mar 23, 2016
    The 13 6.0 with 6-speed, should be a huge step up from your old 454, especially if the 4.10 ratio. Just let the 6.0 rev when climbing, it's a great engine.

    It should tow that new trailer without issue, even at loaded weight.

    Jerry
  • SouthpawHD's avatar
    SouthpawHD
    Explorer
    Mar 23, 2016
    For your viewing pleasure
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ8fn3PvNhQ

    As others have said, the 6.0L, 6-speed with a 4.10 is a real workhorse.
  • PA12DRVR's avatar
    PA12DRVR
    Explorer
    Mar 23, 2016
    I had a 29' TT that had a GVW of 8500#'s, towed it weighing circa 7500 most of the time. Pulled with a 2500 Suburban with the 6.0 and 3.73. That just was working the engine too hard....switched to 4.10 and it was a great combo from that point on.

    ...but I'd suggest keeping the loaded trailer weight at 7500 or below.
  • monkey44's avatar
    monkey44
    Nomad II
    Mar 23, 2016
    2015 Chevy 2500 SB 4x4 6.0L w/4:10 -- we haul a 3500 lb camper, and often a 3500 lb cargo trailer with bikes and stuff. No problems climbing hills or running flat.

    I know, it's a bit different but weight is weight climbing hills. We had the 6.0L with 3:73 and 4 sp tanny before, and it was okay, put 214k miles before trading, but the 6 sp and 4:10 is a real workhorse ... If/when I buy another truck down the road, will stay with the 6.0L w/4:10 again.

    One major difference in ride tho -- changed the stock 265 tires out for 285's
    BFG AT KO2, and the ride is much, much better. Should have done it sooner ...

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